GraphQL: Does it replace SQL, REST or Something Else?

Is GraphQL a replacement for REST? Learn its true purpose and how it solves the common problem of over-fetching.

#1about 1 minute

The history and first principles of SQL

SQL's longevity is rooted in its fundamental relational algebra principles, which have remained relevant for over 50 years.

#2about 4 minutes

Introducing GraphQL and its core concepts

GraphQL allows clients to declaratively query exactly the data they need using a strongly-typed schema, solving problems faced by earlier APIs.

#3about 4 minutes

The evolution of SQL to SQL++ for JSON

The SQL++ standard extends traditional SQL to query semi-structured JSON data, bridging the gap between relational principles and modern applications.

#4about 1 minute

Understanding REST APIs and their limitations

While simple and approachable, REST APIs often suffer from over-fetching by returning fixed, heavy data payloads that clients cannot customize.

#5about 2 minutes

Demo comparing GraphQL, SQL++, and REST queries

A live demonstration shows how GraphQL and SQL++ allow for flexible, client-defined data responses, unlike the rigid structure of REST API calls.

#6about 4 minutes

When to choose GraphQL, SQL, or REST

A summary of each technology's strengths helps determine when to use GraphQL for flexibility, REST for simplicity, or SQL for direct data access.

#7about 3 minutes

Addressing GraphQL security and implementation challenges

Security concerns like expensive joins in GraphQL can be mitigated through careful schema design and resolver implementation, while versioning is managed via the schema itself.

#8about 3 minutes

Using GraphQL as a contract for team collaboration

The GraphQL schema serves as a clear contract between frontend and backend teams, improving communication and reducing documentation ambiguity.

#9about 4 minutes

The future of GraphQL and its performance vs REST

GraphQL is unlikely to completely replace SQL or REST but offers significant performance gains over REST by reducing network payload size for large or frequent queries.