When to use GraphQL instead of a RESTful API?
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What is GraphQL?
GraphQL is a query language and a server-side runtime for APIs that prioritizes providing clients with only the necessary information. GraphQL makes APIs more responsive, flexible, and developer-friendly.
Maintenance GraphQL allows to add or removal of fields without affecting existing queries. The developer uses preferred methods to use API, and the GraphQL specification ensures that they function in predictable ways for clients.
When might I think about using GraphQL instead of a RESTful API?
When you need precise server data control, GraphQL lets you request specific fields. Significantly helpful if you only require some of the data and reduce bandwidth from clients to serve and reduce the bandwidth costs, in short, increase the speed of the application.
It would help if you supported multiple clients with different data needs, such as mobile, desktop, or web clients. GraphQL allows clients to request specific fields. Very easy to handle a wide range of client apps with a single API and minimizes implementation costs.
GraphQL lets you add API fields and types without disrupting client apps. Very helpful in rapid development when your application grows fast without worrying about backward compatibility. In short, it reduces the error factor and reduces stress while delivering new features.
This video will help you better understand what is going on if you still need clarification.
Of course, GraphQL is not a silver bullet, but in another hand can help a lot, especially when you want to have your startup. There is always a tradeoff in software development, and before selecting a technology, you must carefully analyze your requirements.
Let’s produce less buggy software and make customers happier with Penzle. 😀🚀
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Cheers! 👋
