APIs, basically speaking, are the bridges for exchanging information between different systems. For years, people relied on REST APIs, but GraphQL is gradually stepping up as a more flexible and efficient alternative. Then, what is GraphQL?
GraphQL is a query language for APIs that allows the client to request only what they need-no extra or less. By Facebook, it allows the developer to talk to one endpoint instead of multiple that gives data fetching a much smoother appearance.
Why GraphQL?
- Efficiency : With GraphQL, you neither over-fetch nor under-fetch any data. Here, you do not get all the data at one endpoint or multiple requests; instead, you exactly get what you ask for in a single query.
- Real-Time Data : GraphQL can push real-time updates to clients through subscriptions, which makes it even more apt for those applications that require live data such as chat or notifications.
- GraphQL has robust typing, that is, client and server agree on data structure: This makes fewer chances of errors and development even easier.
- No Versioning : Although versioning can be a mess in REST, Graph QL APIs are such that you can evolve the API without breaking existing clients by adding new fields and new features in it without hitting users currently using those fields.
- GraphQL vs. REST: Key Differences
–Â Single Endpoint : Unlike REST, which features multiple endpoints like `/users` or `/posts`, GraphQL covers everything into a single endpoint.
–Â Customized Response : The clients may exactly specify what they need, whereas in the case of REST APIs, typically, more data is being sent than needed.
–Â Flexibility : Sometimes, REST APIs are too rigid when the data structure has to be changed. In GraphQL, you can add or modify data models without thinking about backward compatibility.
 In a Nutshell
GraphQL gives you more control over your data requests, removes unnecessary transferred data, and allows seamless live updates. It just happens to be a modern efficient way of building APIs that perfectly fits in the currently accelerated, data-filled applications. GraphQL helps whether one is developing mobile apps, web apps, or anything else: it’s actually a very powerful tool that simplifies data fetching and boosts developer experience.
