{
  "id": 4240361,
  "title": "REST vs SOAP vs GraphQL vs gRPC — Interview Notes for Backend Engineers",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/29/rest-vs-soap-vs-graphql-vs-grpc-interview-notes-for-backend-engineers",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-29T17:31:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Dev.to",
    "slug": "dev-to",
    "url": "https://dev.to/umairrafi/rest-vs-soap-vs-graphql-vs-grpc-interview-notes-for-backend-engineers-1eg1"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In this account, I will discuss the differences between REST, SOAP, GraphQL, and gRPC, as well as the key factors interviewers look for when choosing an API style. REST APIs are based on resources (nouns) and HTTP methods (verbs). They use a stateless approach with safe and idempotent requests, and provide representations usually in JSON format. When choosing an API style, consider if the API is public or mobile, if there is a need for different client slices, if over-fetching is a concern, or if the API will be used internally for service-to-service communication.\n\nREST APIs are the most common choice for public or mobile APIs due to their browser-friendly nature and natural caching with GET requests. They work well for public or mobile APIs and are easy to implement with JSON payloads. However, for internal service-to-service communication, gRPC may be more suitable due to its low latency and typed generated clients. SOAP APIs are best for enterprise partner contracts or when one side requires a contract, such as in finance or government integrations. GraphQL APIs are an option when different clients require varying slices of data, as they allow clients to request only the necessary fields. Lastly, WebSockets can be used for live updates after the initial load, but are better suited for private APIs rather than public mobile APIs.\n\nIn summary, when deciding between REST, SOAP, GraphQL, and gRPC, consider the API's intended use, the need for different client requirements, and the level of internal service-to-service communication. For public or mobile APIs, REST is often the best choice, while SOAP is more appropriate for enterprise partnerships. GraphQL is useful for clients needing specific data fields, and gRPC shines for internal, high-performance service-to-service communication.",
  "summary": "I have shipped REST APIs for four years (Flask, AWS Lambda + API Gateway, FastAPI). This is the reference I use in design reviews and phone screens — focused on when to pick each style, not memorising definitions. Companion on Medium: REST vs SOAP vs GraphQL vs gRPC: How I Actually Choose — decision framework with trade-offs. 1. REST in 60 seconds REST models resources (nouns) and uses HTTP…",
  "key_points": [
    "REST APIs use resources (nouns) and HTTP methods (verbs) with JSON format",
    "REST is common for public or mobile APIs due to browser-friendliness and caching",
    "gRPC is suitable for internal, high-performance service-to-service communication"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}