AWS Amplify vs AWS AppSync: What are the differences?

Introduction

AWS Amplify and AWS AppSync are both services provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS) for building scalable and secure applications. While both services offer features for building modern applications, there are key differences that set them apart. This markdown code provides a concise overview of the main differences between AWS Amplify and AWS AppSync.

1. Architecture Approach: AWS Amplify is designed to be an opinionated framework for building full-stack applications, providing a set of abstractions and a unified development workflow. It simplifies the development process by abstracting away the underlying infrastructure and providing a consistent set of tools. On the other hand, AWS AppSync is a managed service specifically built for developing GraphQL APIs. It allows you to define a GraphQL schema and connect it to various data sources, such as AWS services or custom data sources. AppSync offers more flexibility and control over the API design and data sources compared to Amplify.

2. Development Workflow: AWS Amplify focuses on providing a streamlined development workflow by integrating with popular frameworks, such as React, Angular, and Vue. It offers a command-line interface (CLI) and a web-based console to manage the application's resources. Amplify provides features like authentication, authorization, data storage, and serverless function deployment, making it easier to build front-end and server-side components. In contrast, AWS AppSync also offers a CLI and a console, but it primarily focuses on managing the GraphQL API layer and data sources. AppSync provides features like real-time subscriptions and offline data synchronization, making it suitable for applications that heavily rely on real-time data updates.

3. Data Layer: AWS Amplify uses a combination of AWS services, such as AWS AppSync, Amazon DynamoDB, and AWS Lambda, to provide a comprehensive data layer. It offers two main approaches for data modeling: direct access to backend services or an abstraction layer provided by Amplify's DataStore. Amplify DataStore simplifies offline data synchronization and conflict resolution. On the other hand, AWS AppSync provides a dedicated GraphQL API layer that allows you to define a schema and map it to different data sources. AppSync supports real-time subscriptions and provides built-in resolvers for common data sources like DynamoDB, ElasticSearch, and HTTP endpoints.

4. Authentication and Authorization: AWS Amplify provides built-in authentication and authorization workflows, supporting various authentication mechanisms like username and password, social sign-in, and federated identities. It allows developers to easily manage user authentication and authorization using Amplify's APIs and libraries. In contrast, AWS AppSync does not offer built-in authentication and authorization workflows. AppSync relies on AWS Cognito or custom authorization mechanisms to secure the GraphQL API. Developers have more control over the authentication and authorization process but need to implement it manually.

5. Real-time capabilities: AWS Amplify provides real-time capabilities through its PubSub category, powered by AWS AppSync. It allows developers to build real-time applications using subscriptions for live data updates. Amplify supports real-time updates for both client-side and server-side components. In contrast, AWS AppSync has native support for real-time subscriptions as a core functionality. It enables clients to subscribe to specific data changes, making it suitable for applications that require real-time updates, such as chat applications or collaborative editing.

6. Cost and Pricing Model: AWS Amplify has a pricing model based on the usage of its underlying AWS services, such as AWS AppSync and Amazon DynamoDB. The costs depend on the usage of resources like data storage, API requests, and data transfer. On the other hand, AWS AppSync also has a pricing model based on API requests, data transfer, and active connections. However, AppSync has more granular pricing options, allowing you to optimize costs based on your specific usage patterns.

In summary, AWS Amplify and AWS AppSync are both powerful tools for building scalable and secure applications. Amplify focuses on providing a streamlined full-stack development workflow with built-in features, while AppSync is a dedicated service for developing GraphQL APIs with real-time capabilities. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements and architecture approach of your application.