Side by side
Lighthouse vs Relay
Both stand on graphql tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APISelf-hosted
Lighthouse brings GraphQL schema directives and data access features into Laravel applications, with Lumen configuration also documented. Consider the tooling gap, experimental federation support, and subscription-expiry setup when deciding whether it fits your project.
Visit Lighthouse Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Relay offers query generation, data consistency, and interface features for React applications using GraphQL. Its setup requires GraphQL, Babel, and the Relay Compiler; persisted queries are recommended for restricting client queries.
Visit RelayThe facts
| Lighthouse | Relay | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Self-hosted | Android, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Not published |
| Plans published | 1 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | lighthouse-php.com | relay.dev |
| On graphql tools | #17 of 32 | #21 of 32 |
Lighthouse: what it does well
- Free to install in a Laravel or Lumen project.
- Built-in directives handle relationships, pagination, and validation.
- Supports Laravel authentication, including Sanctum.
- Caches parsed queries and supports persisted queries.
- GraphQL clients can use the default `/graphql` endpoint.
What to know first
- GraphiQL and other GraphQL tools are not included.
- Federation is experimental and cannot serve as a gateway.
- Subscriptions do not expire automatically.
- Lumen service providers require individual registration.
Relay: what it does well
- Combines component data needs into optimized queries
- Normalized store keeps observed data in sync
- Supports optimistic updates and rollbacks
- Generates TypeScript types and editor support
What to know first
- Requires GraphQL
- Requires a Babel plugin and Relay Compiler
- Production guidance calls for CI compilation and tracked artifacts
Alternatives to Lighthouse Alternatives to Relay The whole list