GraphQL vs REST: Which is More Efficient?

What are the performance differences between GraphQL and REST?

GraphQL generally offers better performance for complex queries because it allows clients to request only the data they need, reducing over-fetching. REST, on the other hand, can lead to multiple requests for related resources.

Can you explain how over-fetching works in REST?

Over-fetching in REST occurs when a client requests more data than it actually needs. For example, if a client requests a user profile, the server might return the entire user object, including fields that the client doesn't use.

How does GraphQL solve the over-fetching problem?

GraphQL solves over-fetching by allowing clients to specify exactly which fields they want in their queries. This means clients can retrieve only the necessary data in a single request.

Are there any performance drawbacks to using GraphQL?

Yes, while GraphQL can reduce over-fetching, it can lead to under-fetching if the client needs additional data later. Additionally, complex queries can result in performance issues on the server side if not managed properly.