In the fast-paced world of forex and CFD trading, selecting the appropriate platform can greatly impact your trading results. Two prominent names in the retail trading arena are MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5). Both platforms, created by MetaQuotes Software, are among the most used trading terminals worldwide. But, in 2025, the decision between MT4 and MT5 is especially important. So, which platform should you opt for this year?
This guide will compare MetaTrader 4 against MetaTrader 5 across a few essential aspects, including features, speed, functionality, the assets available, and other things. Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced trader, this article will help you determine which platform is best for your trading objectives in 2025.
MetaTrader 4: A Legacy That Still Stands Strong
Introduced in 2005, MetaTrader 4 was built mainly for foreign exchange trading. It soon became the preferred platform for countless traders, owing to its ease of use, dependability, and a rich array of indicators and automated trading systems (EAs).
Key Features of MT4:
User-Friendly Interface: Easy navigation makes it perfect for beginners.
Custom Indicators: Thousands of free and paid indicators are available.
Expert Advisors (EAs): Allows for fully automated trading strategies.
Forex-Centric: Ideal for trading currency pairs.
Low Resource Usage: Can run smoothly on low-spec devices.
Limitations of MT4 in 2025:
Limited Asset Classes: Primarily supports forex and CFDs.
Outdated Architecture: Not built for modern trading complexities.
No Built-in Economic Calendar: Traders need third-party tools.
Even after more than ten years, MT4 maintains its popularity because it is easy to use and has strong community backing. Nonetheless, newer traders are increasingly choosing MT5, seeking a broader trading experience.
MetaTrader 5: The Future-Ready Trading Terminal
Launched in 2010, MetaTrader 5 isn’t simply an update to MT4; it’s a brand new platform, designed for trading diverse assets and offering improved features.
Key Features of MT5:
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Multi-Asset Support: Trade forex, stocks, commodities, indices, and futures.
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Faster Processing: 64-bit architecture for improved speed and performance.
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Integrated Economic Calendar: Real-time news and data feed within the platform.
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Advanced Charting Tools: 21 timeframes and 38 technical indicators.
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Hedging and Netting: Supports both position management systems.
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Depth of Market (DOM): Visualizes liquidity levels and trading volumes.
Advantages of MT5 in 2025:
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Regulatory Compliance: Many regulated brokers now prefer MT5 for its flexibility.
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More Broker Support: Increasing number of brokers are offering MT5 over MT4.
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Continual Development: MetaQuotes has shifted its focus entirely to MT5, ceasing MT4 updates.
MetaTrader 4 vs MetaTrader 5: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | MetaTrader 4 | MetaTrader 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2005 | 2010 |
| Market Support | Primarily Forex | Forex, Stocks, Futures, Crypto |
| Timeframes | 9 | 21 |
| Technical Indicators | 30 built-in | 38 built-in |
| Order Types | 4 | 6 |
| Economic Calendar | No | Yes |
| Depth of Market | No | Yes |
| Programming Language | MQL4 | MQL5 |
| Strategy Testing | Single-threaded | Multi-threaded |
| Community Support | Extensive | Growing |
Who Should Use MetaTrader 4 in 2025?
Despite its age, MT4 remains relevant for specific use cases:
Forex-only Traders: If your strategy focuses solely on forex pairs, MT4 still does the job.
Resource-Conscious Traders: Those using low-powered devices will benefit from MT4’s low memory footprint.
EA Users: A massive library of Expert Advisors and indicators is still available for MT4.
Legacy Users: Traders who have built complex systems around MT4 may prefer to stick with it.
Who Should Choose MetaTrader 5 in 2025?
For traders seeking a future-proof, all-in-one solution, MT5 is the clear choice:
Multi-Asset Traders: MT5 supports trading across different asset classes on a single platform.
Algorithmic Traders: Advanced backtesting and programming capabilities in MQL5.
Data-Driven Traders: Integrated tools like the economic calendar and Depth of Market (DOM).
Mobile and Web Traders: More frequent updates and smoother performance on mobile and web platforms.
Broker and Regulation Support in 2025
Broker support is another key element. In 2025, numerous regulated forex brokers within the US, UK, UAE, and Europe are leaning towards MetaTrader 5. This is particularly true for traders interested in a variety of assets, not just currency pairs.
On the other hand, many brokers are discontinuing MetaTrader 4. While some might continue to provide it, it usually comes with less support or fewer features.
Learning Curve and Community
Although MT4 offers a larger selection of guides, video resources, and discussion boards, MT5 is quickly gaining ground. Moreover, the community developing for MQL5 is more involved, thanks to its object-oriented design and better capabilities.
If you’re beginning in 2025, you might experience a slightly harder time getting used to MT5, however, its long-term potential makes the time spent learning valuable.
The Bottom Line: MT4 or MT5 for 2025?
Choose MetaTrader 4 if:
You’re a forex-only trader.
You use legacy indicators or Expert Advisors built in MQL4.
You prefer a simple interface with minimal distractions.
Choose MetaTrader 5 if:
You want access to a variety of instruments beyond forex.
You value speed, efficiency, and advanced features.
You’re looking for a platform that is future-proof and actively supported.
Conclusion
In 2025, deciding between MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 relies on your trading requirements and aspirations. Although MT4 is still a solid choice for forex trading, MT5 is the more adaptable, updated, and advanced platform. If you are beginning now or intend to expand your trading range, MetaTrader 5 is the better option.
Unsure which platform to pick? Test demo accounts of both and see which works best for your trading approach. Regardless of your decision, ensure it’s supported by a dependable forex broker that offers the features you require.
