MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) are two of the most recognized trading platforms in the industry. While their names are similar, the platforms differ significantly in performance, technology, and supported asset types.
Although both platforms are widely used globally, IUX currently provides access exclusively to MetaTrader 5 (MT5) to ensure a more advanced and future-ready trading experience.
What Is MT4?
MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is a trading platform primarily designed for CFD trading. It is well known for its simple interface, stability, and ease of use, making it a long-standing standard for many traders. One of MT4’s key strengths is its strong support for Expert Advisors (EAs) and a large number of custom indicators developed by the trading community. As a result, MT4 remains a popular choice even after the release of MT5.
What Is MT5?
MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is the next-generation platform developed by MetaQuotes as an upgrade to MT4. It features a more advanced system architecture and modern technology, supporting a wider range of assets such as CFDs, stock (CFD), index (CFD), commodity (CFD), and more. MT5 also offers enhanced analytical tools and more advanced order management, making it ideal for traders who require a comprehensive and powerful trading platform.
Key Differences Between MT4 and MT5
1) Supported Asset Types
- MT4: Focuses mainly on CFD trading
- MT5: Supports a wider range of markets, including stock (CFD) and more complex instruments
If you plan to trade multiple markets, MT5 is generally the better option.
2) Order Types
- MT4: Supports standard order types such as Market Orders, Pending Orders, Stop Loss, and Take Profit
- MT5: Offers additional and more flexible order types, including advanced pending order options
Traders who use more complex strategies often benefit from MT5’s advanced order management.
3) Timeframes and Analytical Tools
- MT4: Provides standard timeframes sufficient for general trading
- MT5: Offers more timeframes and enhanced analytical tools
For traders who rely on detailed technical analysis, MT5 provides greater flexibility.
4) Indicators and EA (Expert Advisor)
- MT4: Uses the MQL4 programming language and has the largest library of EAs and indicators
- MT5: Uses the more advanced MQL5 language, delivering higher performance and better support for complex automated trading systems
If you already rely on many MT4 EAs, MT4 may be more convenient. However, for developing new systems with higher speed and advanced functionality, MT5 is more suitable.
5) Speed and System Performance
- MT4: Lightweight, stable, and suitable for most standard computer systems
- MT5: Built on a newer architecture with faster processing and multi-threading support
MT5 is ideal for traders who need faster strategy testing or who run multiple charts simultaneously.
6) Strategy Tester
- MT4: Offers basic EA testing functionality
- MT5: Features a more powerful Strategy Tester with multi-threaded and more detailed testing capabilities, making it ideal for EA developers
Should You Choose MT4 or MT5?
Choose MT4 if you:
- Primarily trade CFDs
- Prefer a simple, lightweight, and stable platform
- Already use a large number of MT4 EAs or indicators
Choose MT5 if you:
- Want to trade multiple asset classes (multi-asset trading)
- Need more timeframes and advanced analytical tools
- Develop or test advanced EAs and require higher system performance
Can the Same Account Be Used for MT4 and MT5?
No. MT4 and MT5 are completely separate trading platforms. An account created for one platform cannot be used on the other.
- MT4 Account Credentials
If you have an MT4 account, you can use your login credentials only on MT4 desktop, MT4 WebTrader, and MT4 mobile applications. MT4 account credentials cannot be used to log in to MT5.
- MT5 Account Credentials
If you have an MT5 account, your credentials can be used only on MT5 desktop, MT5 WebTrader, and MT5 mobile applications. MT5 account credentials cannot be used to log in to MT4.
While MT4 played a significant role in the evolution of online trading, MT5 represents the future of multi-asset and algorithmic trading technology.
If you are choosing a platform today — especially for long-term development and broader market access — MT5 is the more advanced and scalable solution. And at IUX, that’s exactly why we support MT5.