According to a 2022 Postman API survey, GraphQL is one of the most popular API architectures.
It comes fourth after REST, webhooks, and SOAP and its popularity keeps rising.
GraphQL is a query language for APIs developed by Facebook in 2012.
It has unique benefits that make it a preferred data-fetching tool for applications.
Let’s uncover some of these benefits and how they contribute to better API development.
Reducing the number of endpoints simplifies the development process.
The code below shows an example of a GraphQL request.
you’re able to make calls and get exact responses to your queries.
An example response might look something like this:
2.
Strong Typing Provides Safety
One of the most efficient features of GraphQL is its throw in system.
Types validate the structure of queries submitted to the API.
This ensures that the requested data is in the right format.
Using GraphQL, you organize your APIs according to types and fields, not endpoints like in REST.
This structure allows you to access any kind of data from a single endpoint.
Types help apps to access specific data and provide useful errors when data is not available.
With types, you do not have to write manual parsing code.
Here’s an example of how to define a key in in GraphQL:
3.
GraphQL Is Fast
While debatable, the performance of GraphQL looks like it’s faster than REST queries.
This is because GraphQL allows you to run multiple queries at a time rather than on several trips.
it’s possible for you to also select an object or a sub-selection of fields for that object.
GraphQL queries search related objects, and fetch related data in one request.
It’s Efficient to Fetch Data Using GraphQL
GraphQL is efficient in data fetching.
When you make a request, GraphQL queries the server and returns a response specific to your query.
There is no room for over-fetching or under-fetching of data.
This reduces the chances of having too much data or not enough data on the online grid.
When you write a detailed query, you get exactly what you need.
GraphQL returns data that is specific and easy-to read-format making it easy to learn and use.
GraphQL controls the data it fetches and not the server.
So the system will not have to deal with inaccurate or unwanted data.
GraphQL Works With Complex Systems
GraphQL is versatile.
you might integrate multiple systems behind GraphQL’s API.
Its simple system simplifies the complexity of other systems it integrates with.
This makes it ideal for large applications that handle lots of data.
GraphQL is useful when migrating from a monolithic system toa microservice architecture.
GraphQL can handle communication between multiple microservices by merging them into one comprehensive schema.
It can manage data from microservices, databases, and APIs in a single connection call.
GraphQL abstracts the complexity of the backend systems the data is coming from.
GraphQL Avoids Versioning
GraphQL does not depend on versions of your schema.
In case you make changes to your database and add new fields, it does not impact existing queries.
The GraphQL API will only query existing resources and hide outdated data.
S you do not need to change your entire database.
Using the existing version of GraphQL APIs reduces errors and conflicts in applications.
Applications can continuously upgrade to new features without impacting their runtime.
It’s Easy to Scale Your App With GraphQL
GraphQL works with any kind of software and database.
It has a federated architecture that allows it to support multiple backends at the same time.
Applications handling data from many systems can easily scale their APIs using GraghQL.
Scalable APIs ensure the widespread adoption and success of an utility.
you might also use it with any key in of database whether relational or non-relational.
it’s possible for you to create a uniform API for the tool not limited to specific software.
you’re free to create functions in the fields that influence your app.
It Has Powerful Developer Tools
GraphQL has an in-built introspection system.
This allows you to query the schema and find out the kind of queries it supports.
It also has powerful developer tools that allow you to create new operations.
It also has validation and auto-complete features.
you’re free to also register a management service to track changes in the schema.
Why Adopt GraphQL?
The use of GraphQL has skyrocketed since its introduction to open-source in 2015.
It solved industry problems with its versatility, efficiency, and compatibility with other systems.
GraphQL is best for applications handling big payloads like Netflix, Facebook, and PayPal.
As developers work on its limitations, the list of organizations adopting GraphQL continues to rise.
It has become the go-to solution for applications with a competitive edge.
With a rising market and funding, GraphQL will soon outshine popular API architectures.
