MetaTrader 5 vs MetaTrader 4
Trading Platforms, side by side on the same criteria. SMCM does not crown a winner — the differences below matter differently depending on how you trade, so match them to your own style and rules tolerance.
SMCM is independent and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by MetaQuotes Ltd. MetaTrader, MetaTrader 5 and MT5 are trademarks of MetaQuotes Ltd, used here for identification and educational purposes only. You trade with MetaTrader 5 through a broker that offers it — MetaQuotes develops the software and is not a broker.
SMCM is independent and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by MetaQuotes Ltd. MetaTrader, MetaTrader 4 and MT4 are trademarks of MetaQuotes Ltd, used here for identification and educational purposes only. You trade with MetaTrader 4 through a broker that offers it — MetaQuotes develops the software and is not a broker.
Head to head
| Criteria | MetaTrader 5 | MetaTrader 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Trading terminal | Trading terminal |
| Markets | FX, stocks, futures, CFDs | Forex & CFDs |
| Pricing | Free download (via broker) | Free download (via broker) |
| May fit | Multi-asset trading | Forex & EAs |
| Main limitation | Broker-dependent | Legacy; forex/CFD-focused |
| Developer | MetaQuotes Ltd | MetaQuotes Ltd |
| Released | 2010 | 2005 |
| Automation | MQL5 Expert Advisors, indicators, scripts | MQL4 Expert Advisors, indicators, scripts |
| Devices | Windows, web, iOS, Android | Windows, web, iOS, Android |
marks where they differ. Neither value is automatically better — a rule that ends one trader's account is background noise for another.
Who each may fit
Who MetaTrader 5 may fit
- • Traders who want one terminal across forex, stocks and futures
- • Traders building or running automated strategies in MQL5
May not suit
- • Traders whose broker or tools are tied to MT4 only
- • Beginners who want the simplest possible starting point
Who MetaTrader 4 may fit
- • Forex traders who want the most broadly supported, EA-friendly platform
- • Traders relying on MT4-specific Expert Advisors or indicators
May not suit
- • Traders who want stocks or futures in the same terminal (see MT5)
- • Traders who want the newest tools and multi-threaded backtesting
SMCM may receive compensation from some providers listed on this site. This does not change our goal of helping traders compare services, understand risks, and make informed decisions. Ratings are Trustpilot TrustScores and are updated periodically. Not financial advice.
Data last checked: July 2026. Provider rules, pricing, drawdown models and payout terms may change — always verify on the official provider website before signing up.