What is The Graph?
The Graph is a decentralized indexing protocol for querying blockchain data. Instead of scanning entire blockchains, developers use subgraphs to efficiently query specific data like token balances, swap transactions, or NFT ownership.
Popular Subgraphs
- Uniswap - DEX trading data, pools, tokens
- Aave - Lending/borrowing data
- ENS - Domain name data
- OpenSea - NFT trading data
- Compound - Lending protocol metrics
Querying The Graph
# GraphQL query example
{
tokens(first: 5, orderBy: totalValueLockedUSD, orderDirection: desc) {
id
symbol
name
totalValueLockedUSD
volumeUSD
}
}
# Endpoint: https://gateway.thegraph.com/api/[api-key]/subgraphs/id/[subgraph-id]
The Graph vs Direct RPC
- The Graph - Pre-indexed data, GraphQL, pay per query
- Direct RPC - Raw data, JSON-RPC, pay per request
- Use both - RPC for writes, Graph for reads
Pricing
Free Tier
30K-100K free queries/month through The Graph's hosted service.
API Keys
Pay for what you use with API keys from The Graph Foundation.
Alternatives
- Covalent - Unified API for multiple chains
- Bitquery - GraphQL for 30+ blockchains
- Dune Analytics - SQL-based blockchain analytics