GraphQL vs GraphQL Mesh: What are the differences?

Introduction: GraphQL and GraphQL Mesh are both frameworks used for building and querying APIs. While they share some similarities, there are key differences between the two that make them unique in their own ways.

1. TypeDef Language Support: GraphQL supports defining the schema and types using its own type definition language (SDL). On the other hand, GraphQL Mesh allows the use of multiple type definition languages, such as GraphQL SDL, Protobuf, OpenAPI, and Thrift, providing greater flexibility and interoperability.

2. Schema Stitching: GraphQL Mesh enables schema stitching, which allows combining multiple GraphQL schemas into a single unified schema. This allows developers to integrate existing GraphQL APIs and meshes together seamlessly, providing a unified interface to clients. GraphQL, on the other hand, does not have built-in support for schema stitching and requires additional tooling for this functionality.

3. Data Sources Integration: GraphQL Mesh provides a built-in way to integrate and connect data sources with various protocols into the GraphQL schema. This includes REST APIs, gRPC, SOAP, and more. GraphQL, however, requires the use of resolvers to connect to data sources, which needs to be implemented manually or using third-party libraries.

4. Automatic Proxy Generation: GraphQL Mesh can automatically generate proxies for external schema endpoints, including GraphQL APIs, REST APIs, and other supported protocols. This simplifies the process of connecting to external data sources and eliminates the need for manual proxy implementation. GraphQL does not have this built-in functionality and requires developers to manually create proxies.

5. Plugin System: GraphQL Mesh has a powerful plugin system that allows developers to extend its functionalities and customize the behavior of the generated schemas and resolvers. This helps in integrating additional features and handling complex scenarios with ease. GraphQL, on the other hand, does not have a built-in plugin system and relies on external libraries or custom code for extending its functionalities.

6. Code Generation and Language Support: GraphQL Mesh provides extensive code generation capabilities, allowing developers to generate client SDKs, type definitions, and resolvers for different programming languages. It also supports various query and code generation tools like GraphQL Code Generator. GraphQL, on the other hand, does not have built-in code generation capabilities and requires the use of external tools and libraries for code generation.

In summary, GraphQL Mesh offers more flexibility in terms of schema definition, data source integration, and schema stitching, while also providing features like automatic proxy generation, plugin system, and code generation capabilities. GraphQL, on the other hand, is focused on providing a powerful and efficient query language for APIs with the need for additional tooling for advanced features.