2 Open Source Alternatives to Apollo GraphQL

A list of 2 carefully selected open-source alternatives to Apollo GraphQL.

Adrian
Created by
Adrian
Mar 9, 2025Updated3 min read

The open-source alternatives are ranked based on our custom ranking system and score. This system takes into account various factors to determine the best alternatives.

If you’re looking for alternative features or workflows, here is a prepared detailed list of Apollo GraphQL open-source alternatives — each with its own distinctive strengths and key features.

WunderGraph is an open-source GraphQL API management solution that streamlines building, maintaining, and collaborating on both monolithic and federated GraphQL APIs. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools including a robust schema registry, high-performance router, and advanced analytics to optimize API performance and security.

WunderGraph screenshot

Key Features

  • Full lifecycle GraphQL API management with schema registry and composition checks
  • High-performance router with low latency and support for subscriptions
  • Advanced analytics, distributed tracing, and real-time metrics
  • Support for Apollo Federation v1 and v2 for seamless integration
  • Flexible deployment options: on-premises or managed service
  • Feature flags and robust CLI for efficient development workflows

WunderGraph delivers full lifecycle API management for GraphQL, integrating schema registry, composition checks, and advanced request tracing into one cohesive platform. Designed for both Apollo Federation v1 and v2, it features a fast and reliable router with built-in analytics and observability. Deploy it on-premises to meet compliance requirements or use the managed service, making it a drop-in replacement for alternatives like Apollo Studio.

#2
Tailcall logo

Tailcall

1,344
258

Tailcall is a high performance GraphQL runtime that leverages AI to design and deploy best-practice GraphQL backends. It offers developers a fully open-source platform for rapid API orchestration, ensuring optimized speed, security, and reliability.

Tailcall screenshot

Key Features

  • AI-driven design for best-practice GraphQL backends
  • Ahead-of-time performance optimizations
  • Static verification to prevent N+1 issues
  • Robust security validated against GraphQL vulnerabilities
  • Customizable via JavaScript for tailored requirements
  • Plug & play deployment with no external dependencies

Tailcall instantly sets up a modern GraphQL backend atop existing data sources and APIs via a simple npm installation. The tool enhances developer productivity with features like static schema verification, ahead-of-time performance optimizations, and customizable JavaScript integration. Its design caters to frontend, backend, and operational teams with a plug & play approach and robust security validations.

Price comparison of Apollo GraphQL open-source alternatives

ToolTier 1Tier 2Tier 3Details
WunderGraph logo
WunderGraph
$0
Developer
$499
Launch
$3499
Scale
Learn more

* Pricing shown is based on publicly available information and may not reflect current rates. Visit each tool's website for detailed pricing information and additional tiers.

About Apollo GraphQL

Apollo is a renowned brand that is dedicated to revolutionizing software development by providing innovative solutions. With a mission to make application development easier, better, and more accessible, Apollo offers a range of products and services designed to enhance productivity and efficiency. At the core of Apollo's offerings is the supergraph, a powerful composition engine that enables businesses and teams to build, operate, and evolve their software seamlessly. Additionally, Apollo provides tools for collaboration, observability, federation, and more, empowering developers to create exceptional applications. The brand is best known for its leading GraphQL client, Apollo Client, which is widely used for building applications using React, iOS, and Kotlin. Furthermore, Apollo Server, a TypeScript-based GraphQL server, offers a flexible and efficient solution for developers using Express, Koa, Lambda, and more. Apollo also offers professional services, enabling businesses to achieve rapid success on their projects with world-class GraphOS and GraphQL expertise. The brand provides resources such as tutorials, blog posts, and community events, helping developers learn and scale their graph-building skills. Trusted by industry leaders, Apollo has transformed the way companies build apps and deliver innovation. Backed by visionary investors and boasting a talented global team, Apollo embraces a flexible and remote-first work culture, making it an attractive brand to join for innovative individuals in the field of software development.
This comparison data was compiled with AI assistance.
Apollo GraphQL logo

Apollo GraphQL

Apollo GraphQL is the leader in open source and commercial GraphQL technologies. Apollo helps engineering teams build unified graphs to accelerate application development and deliver better, more cohesive experiences.

Founded

2016

Employees

51

Location

San Francisco, United States

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