MetaTrader 4 vs MetaTrader 5: Differences Between MT4 & MT5

The optimal trading platform can be one of the most significant differences between success and failure for traders and investors in the volatile financial markets. There are many alternatives available, but MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) are the two most popular. To assist you in selecting the best option for your trading needs and preferences, here, we will explore a comprehensive comparison between MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5.

The MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Platform: An Expert in Online Trading

The online trading industry saw a rapid transformation with the release of MetaTrader 4 (MT4) by MetaQuotes Software Corporation in 2005. Its launch marked substantial shifts towards electronic trading because it offered an easy-to-use platform.

MT4's popularity soared due to several key features:

• User-Friendly Interface: Traders with varying levels of experience may easily use MT4 because of its simple and intuitive design. The platform's wide acceptance was facilitated by its simple design and navigation.
• Charting Tools and Technical Indicators: With the abundance of technical indicators and charting tools available in MT4, traders may conduct in-depth technical analysis. For many traders, the platform's charts became their go-to source of information.
• Expert Advisors (EAs): One of MT4's most innovative innovations was the addition of EAs, which let traders automate trading methods. Algorithmic traders who wanted to execute transactions according to pre-established rules were drawn to this feature.
• Market Analysis Tools: MT4 offered several tools for doing market analysis, such as customizable scripts and built-in indicators. These instruments enabled thorough examinations, supporting traders in making well-informed decisions.

MetaTrader 5 (MT5): Evolving for a Broader Market

In 2010, MetaTrader 5 (MT5) was unveiled as the next generation of trading platforms, building on the success of MT4. The major difference between MT4 and MT5 is that MetaTrader 4 was initially intended for online forex trading. On the other hand, MetaQuotes created MetaTrader 5 to support a wider range of financial instruments, such as stocks, futures, and commodities.

In MT4 vs MT5 comparison, there are several noteworthy advancements were made when MT4 evolved into MT5:

• More Order Types and Timeframes: MT5 gave traders more options for executing a wider range of trading methods by adding more order types and timeframes. The platform evolved to accommodate more diverse trading approaches.
• Economic Calendar and Fundamental Analysis Tools: In comparison to MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, the latter added an economic calendar and improved macroeconomic factor assessment tools to recognize the value of fundamental analysis. Traders who made decisions based on both technical and fundamental factors found this appealing.
• Better Charting and Analytical Tools: MT5 had improved analytical tools and charting capabilities, providing a more complete technical analysis toolbox. Traders could use the enhanced features to do more complex evaluations.
• Multi-Currency and Multi-Asset Trading: MT5 included support for trading across many currencies and assets, in contrast to MT4, which was focused on FX. The diversification of portfolios among various financial products was made possible by this growth for traders.

Instead of replacing MT4, MetaTrader 5 coexisted with it, each platform meeting different trading needs and preferences. MT5 drew traders looking for a more feature-rich and adaptable platform, but the MT4 continued to be well-liked for its ease of use and broad acceptance.

The Main Differences Between MT4 and MT5

S.no.	Feature	MetaTrader 4	MetaTrader 5
1	Release Year	2005	2010
2	Primary Focus	Forex	Multi-asset (Forex, stocks, commodities)
3	User Interface	Intuitive and user-friendly	Like MT4 but more customized
4	Charting tools and types	Extensive, suitable for technical analysis	Enhanced with more timeframes
5	Technical Indicators	Comprehensive Library	Expanded set of indicators and tools
6	Automated trading programming	Yes, via Expert Advisors (EAs)	Yes, with improved MQL5
7	Order Types	Limited (Market & Pending Orders)	More advanced order types
8	Timeframes	Standard	Additional timeframes for in-depth analysis
9	Fundamental Analysis Tools	Basic economic calendar	Advanced economic calendar
10	Asset Coverage	Forex Pairs, Indices, Energies, Metals, Cryptos, Soft Commodities	Multi-asset (Forex, stocks, commodities)
11	Market Depth	Limited	Improved market depth
12	Programming language	MQL4	MQL5
13	Social Trading	Limited social features	Enhanced social trading integration
14	Mobile Trading	Available	Available with improved features

Head-to-Head Comparison – MT4 vs MT5

• User Interface & Design: While MT5's customization options are more sophisticated than MT4's, both models have comparable designs. MT4's well-known interface may appeal to traders who value simplicity, while MT5's versatility may be more appealing to those who want a more customized experience.
• Technical Analysis and Charting: Both systems offer various technical indicators and charting tools. To accommodate a wider range of trading methods, MT5 provides more timeframes and forex chart types. The extra capabilities in MT5 can be helpful to traders who rely a lot on technical analysis
• Execution of Orders: Both platforms function well when it comes to order execution. On the other hand, MT5, provides a wide range of order types, allowing traders more flexibility when using different methods. The two order execution methods are similar in terms of speed and effectiveness.
• Trading Automation: Expert Advisor-based automated trading is supported by both MT4 and MT5. With MetaTrader 5, a more sophisticated programming language (MQL5) is introduced, providing improved algorithmic trading capabilities. For traders who prioritize automation, MT5 might be a better option when compared to MT4.
• Coverage of Assets: MT5 has a greater asset coverage than MT4 trading platform. In addition to foreign exchange, MT5 supports equities, commodities, and more. MT5 can be used by traders seeking diversity in their portfolios.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Advantages of MetaTrader 4:

• An easy-to-use and straightforward interface.
• A vast collection of personalized indicators and expert advisors.

Drawbacks of MetaTrader 4:

• Less extensive asset coverage than MT5.
• Less complex order kinds.

Advantages of MetaTrader 5:

• Improved tools for charting and analysis.
• Greater coverage of assets.

Drawbacks of MetaTrader 5:

• Can appear to be more complex for beginners.

Conclusion

MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 are two strong platforms with different features. Personal needs and trading goals determine the best option. Before making a selection, a trader must compare MT4 and MT5 platforms and make use of demo accounts. The platform that best aligns with your trading needs will win in the end.

Exclusive Markets allows you to access top-tier trading platforms to trade in financial markets efficiently. It will enable you to download the MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 trading platforms on Windows and Mac OS. Also, a trader can easily download and install MT4 and MT5 on Android and iOS seamlessly.