GraphQL vs. REST: Which is Better for Interface Development?

The REST or RESTful architecture is the result of a doctoral thesis by Roy Fielding, a US computer scientist, in 2000. His REST protocol is based on six principles, with the principle of statelessness being essential for the structure of interfaces (REST APIs) programmed with REST. It states that each message must contain all the necessary information for understanding. Although REST is generally compatible with any protocol or file format, the HTTP protocol is commonly used for data transfer, usually via JSON (JavaScript Object Notation).

For more than a decade, the REST architecture remained uncontested as the standard for creating interfaces until Facebook developed the query language GraphQL in 2012. It is now open-source and has been handed over to the Linux Foundation. REST and GraphQL follow different paths for data processing. While REST transmits all information of a query, GraphQL only transfers necessary data. To achieve this, queries are matched with schemas created by developers, and so-called resolvers assign appropriate values to the queried object types.

Advantages of GraphQL

Targeted Data Retrieval: Only the requested data is returned, preventing the retrieval of irrelevant information (no overfetching). Reduced Room for Miscommunication: By defining object types in GraphQL queries, miscommunication between client and server can be avoided. Evolution without Versioning: An API can be enriched with new features without affecting existing queries. No Specific Application Structure: GraphQL can be installed on an existing REST API and used with classic API management tools, such as Microsoft Azure's API Management.

Advantages of REST

Established Approach: REST has been widely used in interface programming for over 20 years, making it a well-established approach in practice. Clear Identification: One of Roy Fielding's defined principles states that each resource must have a unique URL, simplifying the identification of the REST API. Unified Methods: REST uses the HTTP protocol and its commands, such as GET (retrieve a resource) and POST (create a resource). This principle remains consistent worldwide.

GraphQL or REST: Which Approach Should You Choose for API Programming?

The unsatisfying answer first: It depends. The relatively young GraphQL approach should not be understood as a replacement for programming a REST API but rather as an alternative, as both have their justification.

The application areas of GraphQL and REST are derived from their advantages and features. If your API, for example, needs to enable targeted data type queries and be expanded at any time, then GraphQL is likely the better choice as the query language enables particularly performant interfaces. Performance is also an important aspect in the e-commerce field, where GraphQL can excel, leading to the decision to release an official OXID API based on this language for interface development in the popular OXID eShop. An official REST API, on the other hand, does not yet exist.

For using REST in interface development, the advantage lies in its widespread use worldwide for more than two decades. If language- and location-independent development is a priority for your project, then REST should be your choice.

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