GraphQL vs REST: When to Use Each

Choosing between GraphQL and REST is one of the most important API architectural decisions you'll make. Both have their strengths, and understanding when to use each can significantly impact your project's success.

REST: The Established Standard

REST has been the dominant API paradigm for over two decades. Its simplicity and alignment with HTTP semantics make it easy to understand and implement.

REST Strengths

• Simple and well-understood
• Excellent HTTP caching support
• Stateless architecture
• Wide tooling and library support
• Easy to document and test

When to Choose REST

• Simple CRUD operations
• Public APIs with diverse clients
• Caching is critical for performance
• Team is familiar with REST patterns

GraphQL: The Flexible Alternative

GraphQL offers a query language that gives clients control over the data they receive. This flexibility comes with its own set of trade-offs.

GraphQL Strengths

• Precise data fetching (no over/under-fetching)
• Strong typing with introspection
• Single endpoint for all operations
• Excellent developer experience
• Built-in documentation

When to Choose GraphQL

• Complex data relationships
• Mobile apps with varying data needs
• Rapid frontend development
• Multiple client types with different requirements

My Recommendation

For most enterprise projects I work on, I recommend starting with REST unless you have specific requirements that favor GraphQL. REST's simplicity and caching capabilities often outweigh GraphQL's flexibility, especially for backend-heavy applications.

However, for mobile-first applications or projects with complex, interconnected data models, GraphQL can be transformative.

Conclusion

There's no universal answer—the right choice depends on your specific requirements, team expertise, and project constraints. Consider your use case carefully and don't be afraid to use both in different parts of your system.