When fetching data, should I use REST or GraphQL for better performance in a JavaScript client?

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When fetching data, should I use REST or GraphQL for better performance in a JavaScript client?

Asked on Jan 11, 2026

Answer

The choice between REST and GraphQL for fetching data depends on your specific needs and use cases. REST is a traditional approach with well-defined endpoints, while GraphQL provides more flexibility by allowing clients to request exactly the data they need. Here's a simple example of how you might fetch data using both methods in JavaScript.

// REST API example
        fetch('https://api.example.com/data')
            .then(response => response.json())
            .then(data => console.log(data))
            .catch(error => console.error('Error fetching REST data:', error));

        // GraphQL API example
        const query = `
            query {
                data {
                    id
                    name
                }
            }
        `;

        fetch('https://api.example.com/graphql', {
            method: 'POST',
            headers: {
                'Content-Type': 'application/json',
            },
            body: JSON.stringify({ query }),
        })
            .then(response => response.json())
            .then(data => console.log(data))
            .catch(error => console.error('Error fetching GraphQL data:', error));

Additional Comment:

REST is straightforward for simple data retrieval, with each endpoint representing a resource.
GraphQL allows you to specify exactly what data you need, potentially reducing the amount of data transferred.
Consider REST for simpler, well-defined APIs and GraphQL for more complex data interactions where flexibility is needed.
Evaluate your application's specific requirements, such as the complexity of data queries and the need for flexibility, to decide which approach offers better performance.

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When fetching data, should I use REST or GraphQL for better performance in a JavaScript client?

Asked on Jan 11, 2026

Answer

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