What is the difference between REST and GraphQL?

Question

Accepted Answer

**REST** — multiple endpoints. **GraphQL** — single endpoint, flexible queries.

**REST:**
- Multiple endpoints.
- Fixed data structure.
- HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE).
- Over-fetching or under-fetching possible.

```
REST:
GET /api/users/1
GET /api/users/1/orders
(Multiple requests)
```

**GraphQL:**
- Single endpoint.
- Client specifies data shape.
- No over/under-fetching.
- Strongly typed schema.

```
GraphQL:
POST /graphql
{ user(id: 1) { name, orders { total } } }
(Single request, exact data)
```

**Key differences:**
- **REST** — multiple endpoints.
- **GraphQL** — single endpoint.
- **REST** — fixed structure.
- **GraphQL** — flexible queries.

Systems Analyst: What is the difference between REST and GraphQL?