GraphQL Nexus vs graphql-yoga: What are the differences?

Introduction: GraphQL Nexus and graphql-yoga are both popular tools used for building GraphQL APIs. While they serve similar purposes, there are key differences between the two that set them apart from each other.

1. Code-first vs Schema-first approach: GraphQL Nexus takes a code-first approach where the schema is generated directly from the source code. It allows developers to define their schema using a strongly typed API. On the other hand, graphql-yoga follows a schema-first approach where the schema is defined first and then the code is written to match the schema.

2. Type-safe: GraphQL Nexus provides built-in type-safety and TypeScript support by leveraging TypeScript's static type checking capabilities. It ensures that the schema is always in sync with the code and catches potential errors at compile-time. graphql-yoga, on the contrary, does not have type-safety out-of-the-box and relies on runtime type-checking.

3. Automatic resolver generation: With GraphQL Nexus, resolvers are automatically generated based on the schema and the defined types. It reduces the need for writing boilerplate code for resolvers, making the implementation process faster and less error-prone. graphql-yoga, however, requires explicit resolver functions to be written for each field defined in the schema.

4. GraphQL SDL support: GraphQL Nexus supports the GraphQL Schema Definition Language (SDL), allowing developers to define their schema using the SDL syntax. It provides a compact and intuitive way to represent the schema. graphql-yoga, on the other hand, does not have native support for SDL and relies on the programmatic schema definition.

5. Modular and extensible: GraphQL Nexus provides a modular and extensible architecture, allowing developers to break down their schema into smaller reusable components called "modules". It promotes code organization and reusability. graphql-yoga, while being flexible, does not have the same level of modularity and extensibility as GraphQL Nexus.

6. Query complexity analysis: GraphQL Nexus provides built-in query complexity analysis, allowing developers to track and limit the complexity of the GraphQL queries. It helps prevent costly and time-consuming queries that may impact server performance. graphql-yoga does not have built-in query complexity analysis and would require additional implementation.

In Summary, GraphQL Nexus takes a code-first approach with built-in type-safety, automatic resolver generation, SDL support, and modular architecture. On the other hand, graphql-yoga follows a schema-first approach, requires explicit resolver functions, and does not have built-in query complexity analysis.