Both GraphQL and REST have their place. Here's when to use each.
Use REST When
- Simple CRUD operations
- Caching is important
- Team is familiar with REST
- Public API with many consumers
Use GraphQL When
- Complex data relationships
- Multiple client types (web, mobile)
- Reducing over-fetching matters
- Rapid iteration on data requirements
Hybrid Approach
Many successful projects use both:
- REST for simple operations
- GraphQL for complex queries