GraphQL Playground

Overview

GraphQL Playground is a graphical, interactive, in-browser GraphQL IDE, created by Prisma and based on GraphiQL.

In development, Apollo Server enables GraphQL Playground on the same URL as the GraphQL server itself (e.g. http://localhost:4000/graphql) and automatically serves the GUI to web browsers. When NODE_ENV is set to production, GraphQL Playground (as well as introspection) is disabled as a production best-practice.

graphql play preview

Key Features

  • Interactive API Exploration:

GraphQL Playground is an interactive environment for exploring and testing GraphQL APIs. It provides an intuitive interface for sending queries and mutations, and examining responses, making it easier to develop and debug GraphQL APIs.

  • Real-Time Query Execution:

Allows users to execute queries and mutations in real-time, providing immediate feedback on API requests. This feature helps developers interactively test and refine their queries and understand the structure of the API.

  • Autocompletion and Documentation:

Features autocompletion for queries and mutations based on the GraphQL schema, which aids in writing accurate queries. Additionally, it provides inline documentation for API fields and types, enhancing developer productivity and understanding.

  • Schema Exploration:

Includes tools for exploring the GraphQL schema, allowing users to view and navigate through the types, queries, mutations, and subscriptions available in the API. This helps in understanding the API’s structure and capabilities.

  • Customizable Environment:

Offers customization options such as setting up multiple tabs for different queries, and configuring request headers and variables. This flexibility supports various development and testing workflows.

  • Support for Multiple GraphQL Endpoints:

Supports connecting to and interacting with multiple GraphQL endpoints, enabling developers to test and switch between different APIs within the same environment.

Use Cases

  • API Development and Debugging:

Ideal for developing and debugging GraphQL APIs. Provides a user-friendly interface for testing queries and mutations, and troubleshooting issues with the API.

  • Exploring GraphQL Schemas:

Useful for exploring and understanding the structure of GraphQL APIs. The schema exploration features help developers get familiar with available types, queries, and mutations.

  • Real-Time Query Testing:

Facilitates real-time testing of GraphQL queries and mutations, allowing developers to see immediate results and adjust queries as needed during the development process.

  • Learning and Documentation:

Assists in learning and documenting GraphQL APIs. The autocompletion and inline documentation features help new developers understand how to use the API effectively.

  • Multi-Endpoint Testing:

Supports testing of multiple GraphQL endpoints, making it useful for working with different environments or versions of an API within a single interface.

GraphQL Playground docs