REST vs GraphQL: Two Ways to Build an API
REST and GraphQL are two popular styles for building an API. Both are perfectly capable of powering a serious product; they simply organise requests differently and suit different needs.
You do not need to choose yourself, but knowing the trade-offs helps you understand why we recommend one over the other for your particular project.
The Core Difference
REST gives you fixed addresses for each type of data. GraphQL gives you one address and lets the caller ask for exactly the fields it needs in a single request — handy for complex screens that pull from many sources.
| Aspect | REST | GraphQL |
|---|---|---|
| Learning curve | Gentle, widely known | Steeper, newer to teams |
| Over-fetching | Can return extra data | Returns only what is asked |
| Caching | Simple and well understood | Needs more care |
| Best for | Straightforward resources | Rich, data-hungry interfaces |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better?
Neither is universally better. REST is the sensible default; GraphQL shines when one screen needs data from many places.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.