Rest vs GraphQL vs gRPC

Research Paper: https://journals.pan.pl/dlibra/publication/149562/edition/131803/content

This is the big confusion you get when you design a system architecture. API selection can make or break your architecture.

Assume three API protocols as three people working to the bar

• REST orders everything on the menu because it doesn't know what the client wants.

• GraphQL asks the bartender for a custom cocktail, listing every ingredient.

• gRPC whispers a binary message and gets the drink instantly.

Choosing between the API Protocol is not about maintaining the latest trends its about the performance and scalability.

• REST follows a standard request-response model over HTTP. It’s easy to use, but responses often include unnecessary data.

• GraphQL allows clients to request exactly what they need in a single query. It reduces over-fetching but can add processing overhead.

• gRPC uses Protocol Buffers over HTTP/2, making it highly efficient for service-to-service communication, but it comes with a learning curve.

But how do we know when to use what ?

• REST when simplicity and broad compatibility are the priority.

• GraphQL when optimizing data fetching matters.

• gRPC when performance and low-latency communication are critical.

Every choice has trade-offs, but making the right decision upfront can save time and complexity in the long run.

Practice here at System design studio to understand more about the API Protocols.