Overview

GraphQL and REST are two different approaches to API design.

• REST is resource-oriented
• GraphQL is query-oriented

Data Fetching Model

• REST: Server defines fixed response structures per endpoint
• GraphQL: Client defines exactly which fields to retrieve

Endpoints

• REST:

  • Multiple endpoints

  • Example:

    /users
    /users/{id}
    /users/{id}/appointments
    

• GraphQL:

  • Single endpoint

  • Example:

    /graphql
    

Over-fetching and Under-fetching

• REST:
  • Over-fetching: receiving unnecessary data
  • Under-fetching: needing multiple requests to gather related data
• GraphQL:
  • Client specifies fields → avoids both problems

Example Comparison

REST

GET /user/1
GET /user/1/appointments