Shopify API endpoints are the specific URLs through which developers interact with Shopify’s platform to manage stores, products, customers, orders, and more. Shopify offers two main APIs: the REST Admin API (legacy, being phased out) and the GraphQL Admin API (the future standard).
🔑 Types of Shopify API Endpoints
1. REST Admin API (Legacy, until April 2025)
- Products:
/admin/api/{version}/products.json - Orders:
/admin/api/{version}/orders.json - Customers:
/admin/api/{version}/customers.json - Inventory:
/admin/api/{version}/inventory_levels.json - Transactions:
/admin/api/{version}/transactions.json - Shop Info:
/admin/api/{version}/shop.json
👉 Example:
GET https://{shop}.myshopify.com/admin/api/2024-10/orders.json2. GraphQL Admin API (Preferred going forward)
- Single endpoint:
POST https://{shop}.myshopify.com/admin/api/{version}/graphql.json - Queries and mutations define what data you want (e.g., products, orders, customers).
- More efficient than REST because you can fetch multiple resources in one request.
3. Storefront API
- Endpoint:
POST https://{shop}.myshopify.com/api/{version}/graphql.json - Used for building custom storefronts, headless commerce, and customer-facing experiences.
- Provides access to product listings, checkout flows, and customer accounts.
📊 REST vs GraphQL Comparison
| Feature | REST Admin API | GraphQL Admin API |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Multiple endpoints | Single endpoint |
| Efficiency | Multiple calls needed | One query can fetch multiple resources |
| Future Support | Legacy (phased out after Apr 2025) | Mandatory for new apps |
| Ease of Use | Simple, familiar | Requires GraphQL knowledge |
| Performance | Less efficient | Faster, reduces payload size |
⚠️ Key Considerations
- API Versioning: Shopify releases new versions quarterly (e.g.,
2024-10,2025-01). Always use the latest stable version. - Authentication: Requires OAuth or private app tokens.
- Rate Limits: REST has a limit of 2 requests/second; GraphQL uses a cost-based system.
- Migration: If you’re building new apps after April 1, 2025, you must use GraphQL Admin API.