When developing Shopify apps or custom integrations, one key decision you'll face is choosing between the Shopify REST API and the Shopify GraphQL API. Both are powerful tools that allow you to interact with Shopify stores—but they serve different purposes, offer different capabilities, and suit different use cases.
In this guide, we’ll compare the two APIs, highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and help you determine which is best for your project.
What Are the Shopify REST API and GraphQL API?
Shopify REST API
The REST API uses standard HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) to interact with Shopify resources such as products, orders, customers, and inventory. It follows a resource-based architecture, where each resource has its own endpoint (e.g., /products, /orders).
Learn more about GraphQL at graphql.org.
Key Differences Between REST and GraphQL
| Feature | REST API | GraphQL API |
| Architecture | Resource-based, multiple endpoints | Single endpoint, query-based |
| Data Fetching | Over-fetching or under-fetching possible | Fetch only the data you need |
| Performance | Slower for complex queries | Faster for nested or complex queries |
| Learning Curve | Easier for beginners | Steeper learning curve |
| Caching | Easier to cache | Harder to cache |
| Rate Limits | 40 requests/sec (bucket system) | 1,000 cost points/sec |
| Error Handling | Standard HTTP codes | Detailed error messages |
| Real-Time Data | Limited | Better support via subscriptions |
When to Use the Shopify REST API
If you’re integrating with older infrastructure or third-party platforms using REST, sticking with it may be more efficient.
3. Caching Requirements
REST’s multiple endpoints make it easier to leverage traditional caching mechanisms like CDN or HTTP cache headers.
When to Use the Shopify GraphQL API
1. Handling Complex or Nested Queries
GraphQL excels at fetching deeply nested data (e.g., product → variants → inventory) in a single request.
2. Optimizing Data Fetching
Avoid over-fetching and under-fetching by requesting only what you need—ideal for mobile or low-bandwidth apps.
3. Real-Time Data
GraphQL supports subscriptions, making it a great choice for live inventory updates, order tracking, and more.
4. Future-Proofing
Shopify is actively investing in GraphQL, making it the preferred API for new features and capabilities.
Performance Comparison
REST API Pros & Cons
Pros:
Easy to implement
Better suited for small apps
Simple caching
Cons:
Over-fetching common
Requires multiple calls for complex data
GraphQL API Pros & Cons
Pros:
Single request for complex data
Smaller payloads
Supports real-time updates
Cons:
Harder to cache
Higher learning curve
Must monitor query costs carefully
Rate Limits: REST vs. GraphQL
REST API
Uses a bucket system with a cap of 40 requests per second. Simple and predictable.
GraphQL API
Rate-limited by cost points (1,000 per second). A simple query might cost 1 point, but more complex ones can cost 50+.
Final Recommendation: Which One Should You Use?
Choose the REST API if:
You're new to Shopify or APIs in general
You’re building a quick prototype
You need caching or legacy system compatibility
Choose the GraphQL API if:
Your app is complex or involves nested data
You need real-time updates
You want to reduce bandwidth and future-proof your app
Conclusion
Both Shopify APIs are powerful and have their place in the developer toolkit. The REST API is great for simple, fast projects or those with caching and integration needs. The GraphQL API is the better choice for scalable, data-heavy, or real-time applications.
Whichever you choose, Shopify’s official developer documentation and community forums are there to support you.