GraphQL vs REST: When to Use Each API Architecture

The GraphQL vs REST debate continues. Both have their place, but choosing wrong can cause real problems. As CTO of Softechinfra, here's a practical comparison.

Understanding the Approaches

REST Architecture

Characteristics:
• Resource-based URLs
• HTTP verbs (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE)
• Stateless requests
• Fixed response shapes

Example:

GET /users/123
GET /users/123/orders
GET /orders/456/items

GraphQL Architecture

Characteristics:
• Single endpoint
• Query language
• Client specifies data needs
• Type system

Example:

query {
  user(id: "123") {
    name
    orders {
      id
      items {
        product
        quantity
      }
    }
  }
}

Advantages of REST

1. Simplicity

2. Caching

3. Predictability

4. Performance (sometimes)

Advantages of GraphQL

1. Flexible Queries

2. Single Request

3. Strong Typing

4. Evolution

When to Choose REST

Good fit when:
• Simple CRUD operations
• Public APIs with caching needs
• Team unfamiliar with GraphQL
• Heavy caching requirements
• File uploads are common
• Microservices (internal)

When to Choose GraphQL

Good fit when:
• Complex, related data models
• Mobile applications
• Multiple clients with different needs
• Rapid iteration
• Aggregating multiple sources
• Real-time subscriptions needed

Hybrid Approach

Many successful companies use both:
• GraphQL for client-facing APIs
• REST for internal services
• REST for simple webhooks
• GraphQL for complex queries

Implementation Considerations

REST Challenges

GraphQL Challenges

Performance Comparison

Neither is inherently faster:
• REST: Can be optimized per endpoint
• GraphQL: Can batch and optimize
• Both need proper implementation
• Measure your specific use case

Making the Decision

Questions to ask:
• 1. What are your data relationships?
• 2. Who are your API consumers?
• 3. What's your team's experience?
• 4. What are your caching needs?
• 5. How will the API evolve?