GraphQL vs REST API: Modern Web Development Architecture Comparison

Introduction

APIs are vital in modern apps; GraphQL and REST are two popular architectural styles.

REST API Overview

REST relies on standard HTTP verbs and stateless endpoints, simple and cacheable.

GraphQL Overview

GraphQL lets clients query exactly what they need, reducing over-fetching and under-fetching.

Use Case Comparison

• REST: Better for simple, standardized APIs
• GraphQL: Best for complex, evolving data needs

Conclusion

Choose REST for simplicity and caching; choose GraphQL for flexibility and efficiency.