GraphQL vs tRPC

GraphQL is a query language for APIs and a runtime for executing those queries with your existing data. It allows clients to request only the data they need, which reduces the amount of data transferred over the network.

Key Features:

• Strongly Typed Schema: Defines the types of data you can query.
• Single Endpoint: All requests are made to a single endpoint.
• Client-Specified Queries: Clients can specify the structure of the response.

Example:

query {
  user(id: "1") {
    name
    email
  }
}
                

tRPC (TypeScript Remote Procedure Call) is a lightweight framework for building type-safe APIs using TypeScript. It allows you to define API methods in your server code and automatically generates type definitions for the client.

Key Features:

• Type Safety: Ensures type safety across client and server.
• Automatic Type Inference: Reduces boilerplate code and improves developer productivity.
• Simple API Design: Enables quick and easy API method definitions.

Example:

const appRouter = createRouter()
  .query('getUser', {
    input: z.string(),
    resolve({ input }) {
      return db.user.findUnique({ where: { id: input } });
    },
  });
                

Flexibility vs Structure

GraphQL provides more flexibility for clients to request exactly what they need, while tRPC enforces a more structured approach with predefined methods.

Type Safety

tRPC offers built-in type safety through TypeScript, while GraphQL relies on schema definitions.

Use Cases

GraphQL is ideal for applications that require complex queries and relationships, while tRPC is great for TypeScript-centric applications with simpler API needs.

GraphQL Best Practices

• Use Pagination: Always paginate large datasets to improve performance.
• Optimize Resolvers: Minimize resolver complexity and avoid N+1 queries.
• Utilize Fragments: Reuse common fields with fragments to reduce code duplication.

tRPC Best Practices

• Keep Methods Small: Define small, focused API methods for better maintainability.
• Use Middleware: Implement middleware for authentication and logging.
• Leverage TypeScript: Make full use of TypeScript features for better developer experience.