GraphQL Apollo vs Backendless
A comprehensive head-to-head comparison of two leading api management solutions in 2026. Compare features, pricing, ratings, and more to find the right fit.
Quick Verdict
Choose GraphQL Apollo if you need Apollo Server and prefer a free starting option. Choose Backendless if you prioritize REST API and want a free tier to start. GraphQL Apollo has a higher user rating (4.7 vs 4.2).
GraphQL Apollo vs Backendless: At a Glance
| Criteria | GraphQL Apollo | Backendless |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.7 | 4.2 |
| Pricing | Free | Free |
| Pricing Model | open-source-commercial | freemium |
| Free Plan | ||
| Platforms | JavaScript, Node.js, Web, Mobile | Cloud, Visual builder |
| Category | API Management | API Management |
| Founded | 2016 | 2012 |
Feature Comparison: GraphQL Apollo vs Backendless
| Feature | GraphQL Apollo | Backendless |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo Server | ||
| Apollo Client | ||
| GraphQL Federation | ||
| REST APIs | ||
| Microservices | ||
| Databases | ||
| JavaScript support | ||
| Node.js support | ||
| Web support | ||
| Mobile support | ||
| REST API | ||
| Real-time database | ||
| Cloud code | ||
| Custom integrations | ||
| Webhooks | ||
| Cloud functions | ||
| Cloud support | ||
| Visual builder support |
GraphQL Apollo vs Backendless: Pricing Breakdown
GraphQL Apollo Pricing
Model: open-source-commercial
- Apollo Server
- Apollo Client
- Community support
- Apollo Studio
- GraphQL monitoring
- Collaboration
- Advanced analytics
- Priority support
- SLA
Backendless Pricing
Model: freemium
- REST APIs
- Database
- Cloud code
- Advanced features
- Priority support
- Higher limits
Pros and Cons
GraphQL Apollo
Pros
- Highly rated by users (4.7/5)
- Free plan available to get started
- Available on 4 platforms (JavaScript, Node.js, Web, Mobile)
- Rich feature set with 10+ capabilities
- Strong Apollo Server functionality
- Strong Apollo Client functionality
Cons
- May require time to learn advanced features
Backendless
Pros
- Highly rated by users (4.2/5)
- Free plan available to get started
- Rich feature set with 8+ capabilities
- Strong REST API functionality
- Strong Real-time database functionality
Cons
- May require time to learn advanced features
Who Should Use GraphQL Apollo vs Backendless?
Choose GraphQL Apollo if you:
- Need Apollo Server
- Want to start for free
- Work primarily on JavaScript and Node.js
- Value Apollo Client
Choose Backendless if you:
- Need REST API
- Want to start for free
- Work primarily on Cloud and Visual builder
- Value Real-time database
Frequently Asked Questions: GraphQL Apollo vs Backendless
Is GraphQL Apollo better than Backendless?
It depends on your needs. GraphQL Apollo has a 4.7/5 user rating while Backendless has 4.2/5. GraphQL Apollo excels in Apollo Server and Apollo Client, while Backendless stands out with REST API and Real-time database. Consider your budget (Free vs Free), platform needs, and specific feature requirements.
Which is cheaper, GraphQL Apollo or Backendless?
GraphQL Apollo offers a free plan and starts at Free. Backendless offers a free plan and starts at Free. Compare the specific plan features to determine the best value for your use case.
Can I use GraphQL Apollo and Backendless together?
While both are api management tools, some teams use complementary software together. Check each product's API and integration capabilities for compatibility. However, most users find that one solution covers their core api management needs.
What are the main differences between GraphQL Apollo and Backendless?
The key differences include: pricing model (open-source-commercial vs freemium), platform support (JavaScript, Node.js, Web, Mobile vs Cloud, Visual builder), and feature focus. GraphQL Apollo emphasizes Apollo Server, Apollo Client, GraphQL Federation while Backendless focuses on REST API, Real-time database, Cloud code. User ratings differ slightly: 4.7 vs 4.2 out of 5.
Ready to choose?
Explore detailed reviews, user ratings, and pricing for both GraphQL Apollo and Backendless.