Blockchain · head-to-head
The Graph vs Watchdata
The Graph indexes onchain data into open GraphQL subgraphs that any client can query through its hosted Gateway, covering Ethereum and dozens of other networks without a per-chain node integration. The Gateway requires a bearer token issued from Subgraph Studio, billed on a usage-based model with a free monthly query allowance before paid billing applies. Every query and response travels as GraphQL over HTTPS.
WatchData operates hosted JSON-RPC nodes across Ethereum, Polygon, BNB Smart Chain, and other networks, plus higher-level "Powered API" endpoints for token balances, transfer history, and block-timestamp lookups that would otherwise require custom indexing. Every call needs an api_key issued from the dashboard after a free signup, with a 100-million-unit free monthly allowance before paid plans apply. Responses are plain JSON-RPC.
| The Graph | Watchdata | |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication | API Key | API Key |
| Pricing | freemium | freemium |
| Formats | GraphQL | JSON |
| CORS | yes | yes |
| HTTPS | Yes | Yes |