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HTTP API vs REST API in AWS API Gateway

In the context of the Serverless Framework and deploying applications on AWS, the distinction between HTTP APIs and REST APIs refers to the two types of API Gateway offerings provided by AWS. These differ in terms of features, performance, cost, and use cases.

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HTTP API (Amazon API Gateway v2)

• Performance:

  • Optimized for high performance, offering lower latency and higher throughput compared to REST APIs.

• Cost:

  • More cost-effective than REST APIs due to a simplified pricing model.

• Features:

  • Focuses on core capabilities for handling HTTP requests and responses.

  • Lacks some advanced features available in REST APIs, making it more streamlined and simpler to use.

• Use Cases:

  • Ideal for most serverless applications requiring straightforward HTTP proxying.

  • Suitable when performance and cost-efficiency are prioritized over advanced API management features.

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REST API (Amazon API Gateway v1)

• Features:

  • Provides a broader set of features, including:

    • Request validation.

    • Request and response transformations.

    • WAF (Web Application Firewall) integration.

    • Comprehensive logging and monitoring capabilities.

    • Deeper integration with AWS services (e.g., AWS Lambda, DynamoDB).

• Cost:

  • More expensive than HTTP APIs, especially at scale, due to its extensive feature set and capabilities.

• Use Cases:

  • Designed for complex applications requiring:

    • Advanced API management (e.g., API keys, rate limiting).

    • Detailed monitoring and logging.

    • Sophisticated integrations with AWS services.

  • Suitable for scenarios demanding fine-grained control over API behavior and transformations.

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When to Use Each

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Use HTTP API when:

• You need high performance and low latency.

• Building straightforward APIs without the need for advanced management features.

• Cost-effectiveness is a key concern.

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Use REST API when:

• Advanced API management features are required, such as:

  • API keys, rate limiting, and request validation.

  • Detailed monitoring and logging.

• Your application demands complex integrations with AWS services that HTTP APIs do not support.

• You need fine control over request and response transformations.

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Key Takeaways

• For most new applications, HTTP APIs are sufficient due to their simplicity, lower cost, and higher performance.

• For complex applications requiring extensive features and integrations, REST APIs are the preferred choice despite higher costs.

Choosing the right type of API Gateway depends on the specific requirements of your application, including performance, cost, and feature needs.