If you are deciding between MetaTrader 4 vs MetaTrader 5 in 2025, this guide covers everything you need to know. Both platforms remain the most widely used trading tools worldwide, but each has unique strengths. From supported markets to algorithmic trading, this complete guide will help you choose the best platform for your trading goals.
But here is the catch: MT4 was launched back in 2005, while MT5 came out in 2010. Fast forward to 2025, and both are still going strong – with millions of traders using them daily. Whether you are a beginner opening your first demo account or a professional running algorithmic strategies, knowing the difference between MT4 and MT5 can make a significant impact on your trading journey.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: features, markets, tools, setup, programming, pros and cons – and most importantly, which one is right for you in 2025.
What Can You Trade on MT4 and MT5?
- Forex – Both platforms are built for currency trading.
- Stocks – MT5 lets you trade exchange-listed shares, while MT4 only offers stocks as CFDs if your broker supports it.
- Indices & Commodities – Trade the S&P 500, gold, oil, or corn. MT5 offers deeper exchange connectivity.
- Futures & Options – MT5 supports them natively; MT4 does not.
- Cryptocurrencies – MT5 supports crypto CFDs and exchange pairs. MT4 handles crypto only if the broker bridges it.
Bottom line: MT5 is truly multi-asset, while MT4 is still mainly for Forex and CFDs.
How to Get Started
- Choose a Broker – Pick a regulated broker that offers MT4/MT5.
- Open an Account – Most brokers let you start with a free demo account.
- Download the Platform – Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Web, iOS, and Android.
- Log In and Explore – Use your broker’s credentials to log in. The left pane shows markets, the main window displays charts, and the bottom panel shows trades and history.
- Practice First – Experiment with demo trades before going live.
Tip: MT5’s web version is excellent if you do not want to install software.
MT4 vs MT5: Quick Comparison
| Feature | MT4 | MT5 |
|---|---|---|
| Markets | Mainly Forex/CFDs | Forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto |
| Indicators | 30 | 38 |
| Timeframes | 9 | 21 |
| Pending Orders | 4 | 6 |
| Depth of Market | No | Yes |
| Strategy Tester | Single-threaded | Multi-threaded, multi-symbol |
| Programming | MQL4 (simpler) | MQL5 (advanced, object-oriented) |
| Architecture | 32-bit | 64-bit |
| Account Types | Hedging only | Hedging + Netting |
If you need speed, more assets, and professional tools, MT5 is the clear winner. If you want simplicity and a massive community of tutorials, MT4 still shines.
Programming: MQL4 vs MQL5
- MQL4 – Easy to learn, procedural, best for simple indicators and EAs.
- MQL5 – Object-oriented, supports event-driven trading, faster backtests, and complex multi-asset strategies.
If you are planning to dive into algorithmic trading, MT5 with MQL5 is future-proof.
Add-Ons and Tools
Both MT4 and MT5 support:
- Expert Advisors (EAs) – Automated trading bots.
- Custom Indicators – Thousands available in the MetaTrader Market.
- Signals – Copy professional traders with one click.
- VPS Hosting – Run your bots 24/7 with minimal downtime.
- Python Integration (MT5) – MT5 takes it further with native Python support, perfect for quantitative traders.
Pros and Cons
Why Traders Prefer MT5 (2025):
- Multi-asset access: forex, stocks, crypto, commodities, futures
- More indicators, timeframes, and order types
- Depth of Market and built-in economic calendar
- Faster, multi-threaded backtesting
- Continuous development and broker support
Why Many Still Use MT4:
- Simple and beginner-friendly
- Massive library of bots and indicators
- Runs smoothly on older systems
- Abundant tutorials and community support
Which One Should You Choose in 2025?
- Beginners: Start with MT4. It is simpler, lighter, and supported by endless free resources.
- Professional Traders: Go with MT5. More tools, more markets, faster execution – and it is the direction the industry is moving.
- Algorithmic and Quant Traders: MT5 is the clear winner thanks to MQL5 and Python API support.
Final Thoughts
MetaTrader is not just software – it is an ecosystem. Even in 2025, MT4 remains the most widely used Forex platform, but MT5 represents the future with multi-asset support and advanced trading infrastructure.
If you are new, learn on MT4 and build your foundation. But if you want to scale, automate, and diversify beyond forex, MT5 is where you should be.
The good news? Both platforms are free to download and supported by nearly every major broker. Testing both is the best way to see which fits your trading style.
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