GraphQL vs REST: Choosing the Right Data Delivery Layer

GraphQL promises frontend flexibility, but the overhead of N+1 problems on massive relational datasets can cripple server performance. We tested both layers extensively.

The Case for Pre-calculated REST

For market valuations, we discovered that highly predictable, pre-calculated REST endpoints offered 4x higher throughput. By keeping the queries constrained, we optimized the database indices specifically for those routes, ensuring predictable latency curves under heavy load.