urql and Apollo Client are both GraphQL clients for JavaScript applications, but they take fundamentally different approaches to solving the same problem. urql is a lightweight, modular client weighing only 7.1 kB that prioritizes simplicity and performance through an exchange-based architecture. Apollo Client is a comprehensive, feature-rich solution at approximately 30 kB that bundles extensive capabilities including advanced caching, state management, and developer tooling out of the box.
This comparison matters because the choice significantly impacts your application's bundle size, initial load performance, and development complexity. urql targets teams building performance-sensitive applications who want fine-grained control over features, particularly those working with React, Vue, or Svelte. Apollo Client serves teams needing a batteries-included solution with extensive documentation, broad framework support (including Angular and Ember), and a mature ecosystem of plugins and community resources.
Choose urql if bundle size and performance are primary concerns, or if you're building with React, Vue, or Svelte and want a simple, modular solution. The 22.5 kB savings matter significantly for mobile users, and urql's straightforward API reduces onboarding time for teams new to GraphQL. Its exchange architecture lets you add complexity only when needed, making it ideal for applications that start simple and grow over time. The built-in SSR support is particularly valuable for Next.js or Nuxt applications where server rendering is critical.
Choose Apollo Client when you need comprehensive features immediately, are working with Angular or other less common frameworks, or when a large community and extensive documentation outweigh bundle size concerns. Apollo's sophisticated caching system handles complex data requirements without custom configuration, making it superior for applications with intricate data relationships and frequent cache updates. If you're building enterprise applications where developer productivity and support resources matter more than a few kilobytes, Apollo's maturity and ecosystem provide significant value despite the larger footprint.