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MetaTrader 4 vs MetaTrader 5: The 2026 Comparison
Which trading software should you choose? A complete expert guide
Key Figures • Comparative Table • MT4 Advantages • MT5 Advantages • Algo Trading • Verdict • FAQ
MetaTrader 4 vs MetaTrader 5 Which trading software should you choose in 2026? These two platforms developed by MetaQuotes dominate the online trading industry. In this comprehensive comparison, we analyze each solution to help you make the best choice for your profile.
Key Figures: MT4 vs MT5
Timeframes
MT5 offers more than double the number of time units for technical analysis.
Indicators
MT5 offers 8 additional native indicators.
Order Types
MT5 integrates Stop Limit orders for advanced management.
Comparative Table MT4 vs MT5
| Setting | MetaTrader 4 | MetaTrader 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Accessible markets | Forex and CFDs | Forex, Futures, Stocks, Options |
| Timeframes | 9 standards | 21 customizable |
| Integrated indicators | 30 | 38 |
| Graphic objects | 31 tools | 44 tools |
| Order Types | 4 types | 6 types (Stop Limit included) |
| Economic calendar | Absent | Integrated |
| Market depth | No | Yes |
| Backtesting | Single-threaded (slow) | Multi-threaded (fast) |
| Hedging | Native | Available |
| Netting | No | Yes |
| Language | MQL4 (close to C) | MQL5 (similar to C++) |
MetaTrader 4: Interface and Advantages
Launched in 2005, MetaTrader 4 It is renowned for its stability and simplicity. Millions of traders use it daily for Forex. Its clean interface allows for quick and easy use.
Classic MetaTrader 4 interface
Advantages of MetaTrader 4
- Lightweight and stable - Consumes few resources, perfect for modest configurations
- Massive community - World's largest library of Expert Advisors (EAs)
- Forex Specialization - Interface designed exclusively for currencies
- Universal compatibility - Offered by almost all brokers in 2026
- Multi-platform - Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, WebTrader
MetaTrader 5: Interface and Advantages
Launched in 2010, MetaTrader 5 is the next generation platform. It meets the requirements of professional traders with multi-asset access and superior analytical power.
Modern MetaTrader 5 interface with market depth
Advantages of MetaTrader 5
- Multi-asset trading - Real stocks, futures, options in addition to Forex
- Market depth (DOM) - Real-time order book
- Economic calendar - Natively integrated into the terminal
- Backtesting multi-thread - Up to 90% faster than MT4
- Cloud Computing - Massive optimizations via MQL5 Cloud Network
- 21 timeframes - More than double MT4
Algorithmic Trading: MT4 vs MT5
Algorithmic trading is a major criterion. Both platforms allow the creation of robots (Expert Advisors), but the differences are significant.
MT4 - MQL4
Simple language similar to C. Single-threaded backtesting (slow). Sufficient for basic Forex strategies.
MT5 - MQL5
Object-oriented programming (C++). Multi-threading + Cloud Network. Backtest reduction up to 90%.
Attention Compatibility
The Expert Advisors developed in MQL4 is not compatible with MT5. A code rewrite is necessary to migrate your robots.
Final Verdict: MT4 vs MT5
Choose MT4 if:
You are an exclusive Forex trader, you have EAs in MQL4, you are looking for simplicity, or you have a limited connection.
Choose MT5 if:
You want to trade stocks/futures/options, you do advanced algorithmic trading, or you need the DOM.
In 2026, MT5 is recommended for its versatility and power. MT4 remains perfectly valid for Forex specialists.
FAQ – MetaTrader 4 vs MetaTrader 5
What is the main difference between MT4 and MT5?
MT4 is limited to Forex/CFDs. MT5 allows trading of real stocks, futures, and options. MT5 also offers 21 timeframes versus 9, and multi-threaded backtesting.
Do MT4 Expert Advisors work on MT5?
No. Expert Advisors written in MQL4 are not compatible with MT5. A rewrite in MQL5 is required.
Is MT4 still available in 2026?
Yes. Most brokers still offer MT4. However, MetaQuotes encourages migration to MT5.
Is MT5 free?
Yes. MetaTrader 5 is free. Trading costs (spreads, commissions) depend solely on the broker.
Which MT should I choose for algorithmic trading?
MT5 is recommended for advanced algorithmic trading thanks to multi-threading, cloud computing, and object-oriented MQL5.
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