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Ida Hermansen
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Author
Ida Hermansen
Edited by
Ida Hermansen
Financial Writer

Ida is a financial writer with a passion for cryptocurrencies, blockchain networks, and Forex trading. A dedicated crypto trader, she developed a deep interest in Forex technical analysis and price action, continually expanding her expertise in market trends and trading strategies.

Learn more about Ida Hermansen
Author
Author
Chris Cammack
Partner Manager and Financial Writer

Chris Cammack is the Partner Manager and a financial writer at FxScouts. Chris builds and maintains our relationships with our partners to provide our users with the best Forex trading experience.

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Risk Warning

CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Clients can lose more than they deposit. All trading involves risk.

Advertiser Disclosure

FxScouts helps traders across the globe by meticulously testing and reviewing online brokers and providing Forex education and market analysis. Our partners compensate us through paid advertising. While partners may pay to provide offers or be featured, they cannot pay to alter our recommendations, advice, ratings, or any other content. Our content and research teams do not participate in any advertising planning nor are they permitted access to advertising campaign data. For more detailed information click this link.

Best MT4 Forex Brokers for 2025

Edited by
Author
Ida Hermansen
Edited by
Ida Hermansen
Financial Writer

Ida is a financial writer with a passion for cryptocurrencies, blockchain networks, and Forex trading. A dedicated crypto trader, she developed a deep interest in Forex technical analysis and price action, continually expanding her expertise in market trends and trading strategies.

Learn more about Ida Hermansen
Chris Cammack
Author
Chris Cammack
Partner Manager and Financial Writer

Chris Cammack is the Partner Manager and a financial writer at FxScouts. Chris builds and maintains our relationships with our partners to provide our users with the best Forex trading experience.

Learn more about Chris Cammack

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) has remained the most widely used Forex trading platform for nearly 20 years. Fast, lightweight, and highly customisable, it delivers precise charting, robust automated trading via Expert Advisors (EAs), and reliable execution across market conditions.

Because almost every Forex broker offers MT4, choosing the right one can be challenging. The brokers featured on this page stand out for their tight spreads, strong regulation, high-quality execution, and overall MT4 performance. Our team has tested more than 180 brokers to highlight the best MT4 options for different trading styles, experience levels, and budgets.

Trusted. Transparent. Tested.

For over a decade, we’ve set the standard in forex broker reviews—collecting thousands of data points yearly to deliver unbiased, expert-backed insights.

Skip the trial and error! Below, you’ll find the best forex brokers in the Philippines for 2025—thoroughly tested, verified, and ranked, so you can trade with confidence.

Primary Image

Best MT4 Forex Brokers in the Philippines for 2025

You can either use the arrow button or swipe on mobile

Official Site
Regulated By
Website Language: English
Support Language: English
Compare
Visit Broker
75.3% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 0
1000:1
FCA Regulated BrokersASIC Regulated Forex BrokersCySEC Regulated BrokersDubai Financial Services Authority
Bundesanstalt für FinanzdienstleistungsaufsichtSecurities Commission of the BahamasCapital Markets Authority
1597
90
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
71.67% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 3
Unlimited:1
FSCA Regulated Forex BrokersThe Seychelles Financial Services AuthorityCapital Markets AuthorityBritish Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission
Financial Services CommissionJordan Securities Commission
221
100
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
76% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 100
400:1
ASIC Regulated Forex BrokersFSCA Regulated Forex BrokersCySEC Regulated BrokersFinancial Services Agency
Central Bank of IrelandFinancial Regulatory Services AuthorityIsrael Securities Authority
930
63
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
75.18% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 5
500:1
CySEC Regulated BrokersASIC Regulated Forex BrokersDubai Financial Services AuthorityInternational Financial Services Commission
1554
57
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
77.41% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 10
1000:1
CySEC Regulated BrokersThe Seychelles Financial Services AuthorityFinancial Regulatory Services Authority
2193
49
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
72.90% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 0
2000:1
FCA Regulated BrokersFSCA Regulated Forex BrokersDubai Financial Services AuthorityFinancial Services Commission
The Seychelles Financial Services AuthorityCapital Markets Authority
1230
53
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
70.81% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 200
500:1
CySEC Regulated BrokersThe Seychelles Financial Services AuthoritySecurities Commission of the BahamasCapital Markets Authority
1744
64
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
79% of retail CFD accounts lose money
AUD 100
30:1
ASIC Regulated Forex BrokersCySEC Regulated BrokersFSCA Regulated Forex BrokersThe Seychelles Financial Services Authority
Financial Services CommissionCapital Markets Authority
10162
70
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
69.21% of retail CFD accounts lose money
USD 5
3000:1
ASIC Regulated Forex BrokersInternational Financial Services Commission
573
72
Yes
Yes
Visit Broker
89% of retail CFD accounts lose money
AUD 0
500:1
ASIC Regulated Forex BrokersVanuatu
247
81
Yes
Yes
Pepperstone
4.6
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 0
Max. Leverage
1000:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulatorregulator
regulatorregulatorregulator
Total CFDs
1597
Currency Pairs
90
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
Exness
4.3
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 3
Max. Leverage
Unlimited:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulatorregulator
regulatorregulator
Total CFDs
221
Currency Pairs
100
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
AvaTrade
4.6
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 100
Max. Leverage
400:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulatorregulator
regulatorregulatorregulator
Total CFDs
930
Currency Pairs
63
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
XM
4.5
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 5
Max. Leverage
500:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulatorregulator
Total CFDs
1554
Currency Pairs
57
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
NAGA
4.1
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 10
Max. Leverage
1000:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulator
Total CFDs
2193
Currency Pairs
49
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
HFM
4.4
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 0
Max. Leverage
2000:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulatorregulator
regulatorregulator
Total CFDs
1230
Currency Pairs
53
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
IC Markets
4.5
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 200
Max. Leverage
500:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulatorregulator
Total CFDs
1744
Currency Pairs
64
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
FP Markets
4.6
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
AUD 100
Max. Leverage
30:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulatorregulatorregulator
regulatorregulator
Total CFDs
10162
Currency Pairs
70
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
FBS
4.3
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
USD 5
Max. Leverage
3000:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulator
Total CFDs
573
Currency Pairs
72
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
Fusion Markets
4.4
Read Review

Our broker ratings are derived from rigorous testing by industry experts and experienced traders. We thoroughly evaluate regulatory compliance, security, transparency, trading performance, and customer service. We never accept payment for higher scores, ensuring our ratings remain unbiased, factual, and trustworthy—so you can confidently choose a reliable broker for your financial safety and trading success.

For detailed information about our testing methodology click here.

Min. Deposit
AUD 0
Max. Leverage
500:1
Regulated By
regulatorregulator
Total CFDs
247
Currency Pairs
81
Website Language: English
Yes
Support Language: English
Yes
Find Your Ideal Forex Broker

Compare Forex Brokers

  • Find the best broker for your trading needs
  • Compare spreads, fees, and platforms
  • Read in-depth reviews and analysis

How Brokers Are Scored

FxScouts’ Broker Score and Trust Rating constantly evolve to reflect the forex market’s dynamics. We ensure transparency by incorporating regulator data and user insights. Our in-depth reviews consider over 200 metrics across seven key categories. The radar chart to the left shows how important each category is when calculating a broker’s final score.

  • Trust Rating: Assessment of broker reliability and reputation
  • Trading Costs: Spreads and fees for clear comparisons
  • Platforms: User-friendliness and features 
  • Asset Selection: Forex, stocks, and other available instruments
  • Deposit and Withdrawal: Simple and free deposits & withdrawals
  • Education: Support for beginners and developing traders
  • Customer Support: Accessibility, responsiveness, and expertise


To ensure fairness and transparency, we independently verify broker claims and integrate real-user feedback, regulator data, and live trading tests. The radar chart to the left illustrates the weight of each category in our final scoring system.

Why Our Reviews Set the Standard

Every broker we recommend meets strict trust and safety criteria and is tested for reliability, transparency, and overall trading experience.

Pepperstone

Best for: Filipino traders looking for fast execution and low spreads on MT4

4.61
81.3 of retail CFD accounts lose money with this provider

Min. Spread

0 pips

Regulation

CMA, BaFin, SCB, DFSA, ASIC, FCA, CySEC

Min. Deposit

USD 0

Platforms

Pepperstone Platform, TradingView, cTrader, MT5, MT4

Max Leverage

1000:1

Why Pepperstone Stands Out

  • Lightning-Fast Execution

    Pepperstone uses Equinix servers and offers average execution speeds under 30ms—critical for scalpers and EA users on MT4.

  • Deep Liquidity with Razor Account

    Offers spreads from 0.0 pips with just $3.50 per side commission. Suitable for day traders who prioritise pricing efficiency.

  • Full MT4 Suite with Smart Trader Tools

    It provides 28 extra indicators and EAs via a proprietary add-on package for MT4, which is not commonly found at other brokers.

  • Strong Local Support

    24/5 support with dedicated help for Filipino traders via chat and localised account setup assistance.

Why Pepperstone Falls Short

  • No Bonuses or Promotions

    Unlike regional brokers, Pepperstone does not offer welcome bonuses or rebates for new clients.

  • Higher Minimum for Razor Accounts

    Requires more capital to access the lowest spreads, possibly limiting entry for budget-conscious traders.

Pepperstone | Best for: Filipino traders looking for fast execution and low spreads on MT4

Final Verdict: Is Pepperstone right for you?

Trade if:

  • You’re focused on scalping or using expert advisors (EAs)
  • You need extremely low spreads and advanced MT4 tools

Consider Alternatives:

  • You prefer brokers with promotional bonuses
  • You want a beginner-focused MT4 experience
Visit Broker
Accepts clients from the Philippines pips with 0.0 USD commission round turn on the trading account with lowest minimum deposit. Max leverage 1000:1. Islamic account available. MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView platforms supported. Pepperstone Group is regulated by the FCA, ASIC, SCB, DFSA and CMA.

Exness

Best for: Filipino traders wanting high leverage and automated trading with MT4

4.32
71.67 of retail CFD accounts lose money with this provider

Min. Spread

0.1 pips

Regulation

JSC, CMA, FSA-Seychelles, FSC, B.V.I FSC, FSCA

Min. Deposit

USD 3

Platforms

Exness Terminal, MT5, MT4

Max Leverage

Unlimited:1

Why Exness Stands Out

  • Unlimited Leverage Option

    After meeting basic requirements, Filipino users can unlock unlimited leverage on MT4—rare in global brokers.

  • Instant Withdrawals via Local Methods

    Supports GCash, bank transfers, and other local channels with 24/7 automated processing, a major plus for PH traders.

  • Dedicated MT4 Terminal Enhancements

    Exness integrates enhanced charting and order management within the classic MT4 terminal.

  • MT4-Powered Social Trading Available

    Users can link their accounts to Exness Social Trading directly via the MT4 environment.

Why Exness Falls Short

  • Unlimited Leverage Has Activation Requirements

    Traders must reach at least 5 lots and avoid high-volatility news periods to qualify.

  • Limited Educational Resources

    Exness provides fewer beginner-focused guides or webinars compared to competitors.

Exness | Best for: Filipino traders wanting high leverage and automated trading with MT4

Final Verdict: Is Exness right for you?

Trade if:

  • You want to maximise leverage and use EAs with low spreads
  • You prioritise fast local payments and 24/7 withdrawals

Consider Alternatives:

  • You need beginner-level trading education or live webinars
  • You want plug-and-play access to MT4 social signals
Visit Broker
Accepts clients from the Philippines. Average spread EUR/USD 0.70 pips on trading account with lowest minimum deposit. Max leverage Unlimited:1. Islamic account available. MT4, MT5, Exness web trader platforms supported. Exness is regulated by CySEC, FCA, and the FSC.

AvaTrade

Best for: Filipino traders seeking risk-managed MT4 trading with copy trading options

4.59
76 of retail CFD accounts lose money with this provider

Min. Spread

0.9 pips

Regulation

ISA, FRSA, CBI, FSA-Japan, FSCA, ASIC, CySEC

Min. Deposit

USD 100

Platforms

AvaOptions, Avatrade Social, MT5, MT4

Max Leverage

400:1

Why AvaTrade Stands Out

  • MT4 with AvaProtect Risk Tool

    AvaTrade adds AvaProtect—a risk management tool that refunds losses for covered trades, available only through its MT4 terminal.

  • Copy Trading via ZuluTrade and DupliTrade

    MT4 accounts can be linked with third-party copy platforms for signal-based trading with minimal manual input.

  • Fixed and Variable Spread Choices

    Users can select stable spreads during news or use variable spreads for tighter pricing.

  • Beginner-Friendly Interface and Support

    Offers detailed guides, tutorials, and multilingual support, including Filipino support agents.

Why AvaTrade Falls Short

  • No Raw Spread Accounts

    Spreads are competitive but not as tight as ECN brokers like Pepperstone or IC Markets.

  • Limited Account Customisation

    Account options and leverage levels are fixed by regulation, limiting flexibility.

AvaTrade | Best for: Filipino traders seeking risk-managed MT4 trading with copy trading options

Final Verdict: Is AvaTrade right for you?

Trade if:

  • You want risk-protection tools integrated into MT4
  • You prefer signal-based trading with minimal manual analysis

Consider Alternatives:

  • You require ultra-low spreads or ECN-like conditions
  • You want custom MT4 configurations and flexible leverage
Visit Broker
Accepts clients from the Philippines. Average spread EUR/USD 0.90 pips on trading account with lowest minimum deposit. Max leverage 400:1. Islamic account available. MT4 & MT5 platforms supported. AvaTrade Group regulated by CBI, ASIC, FSCA, BVI FSC & FSA.

XM

Best for: Filipino beginners who want MT4 education, bonuses, and small deposit options

4.45
75.18 of retail CFD accounts lose money with this provider

Min. Spread

0.6 pips

Regulation

DFSA, FSC, ASIC, CySEC

Min. Deposit

USD 5

Platforms

MT5, MT4

Max Leverage

500:1

Why XM Stands Out

  • $30 No-Deposit Bonus for MT4 Accounts

    XM provides a risk-free $30 bonus for new MT4 users—ideal for learning under real conditions.

  • MT4 Micro and Standard Accounts

    Allows small trades with micro lots, perfect for practicing without high risk.

  • Comprehensive MT4 Learning

    Offers weekly webinars, tutorials, and platform guides focused on MT4 basics and strategies.

  • Bonus and Loyalty Programs

    Regular deposit bonuses and point-based rewards add value for long-term users.

Why XM Falls Short

  • No Raw Spread Account for MT4

    Spread-based trading only; commissions can’t be separated.

  • Limited Custom Indicators and Tools

    Less emphasis on advanced MT4 add-ons compared to Pepperstone.

XM | Best for: Filipino beginners who want MT4 education, bonuses, and small deposit options

Final Verdict: Is XM right for you?

Trade if:

  • You are new to MT4 and want to trade with free capital
  • You prefer a structured education path in your language

Consider Alternatives:

  • You want ultra-low spreads and raw ECN-style pricing
  • You need more advanced MT4 plugins and tools
Visit Broker
Accepts clients from the Philippines. Average spread EUR/USD 0.60 pips on trading account with lowest minimum deposit. Max leverage 500:1. Islamic account available. MT4 & MT5 platforms supported. XM Group regulated by CySEC, ASIC, and the IFSC.

NAGA

Best for: Filipino traders who want to combine social and manual MT4 trading

4.14
77.41 of retail CFD accounts lose money with this provider

Min. Spread

0.7 pips

Regulation

FRSA, FSA-Seychelles, CySEC

Min. Deposit

USD 10

Platforms

NAGA Web App, MT5, MT4

Max Leverage

1000:1

Why NAGA Stands Out

  • MT4 Platform Fully Integrated with NAGA Social

    Allows you to mirror top traders while placing your own trades from one unified MT4 dashboard.

  • Social Leaderboards and Auto-Copy Features

    Track and follow top earners with full performance stats linked to real MT4 accounts.

  • NAGA Wallet and In-App Messaging

    Built-in ecosystem for managing funds and engaging with the community without leaving MT4.

  • Compliant with EU Regulations

    Regulated in multiple jurisdictions with investor protections in place.

Why NAGA Falls Short

  • No Raw Spread Option

    MT4 trades via NAGA are subject to standard spreads—no ECN pricing available.

  • Limited Market Range Compared to Multi-Asset Brokers

    While crypto and stocks are supported, the asset list is smaller than that of IC Markets or Exness.

NAGA | Best for: Filipino traders who want to combine social and manual MT4 trading

Final Verdict: Is NAGA right for you?

Trade if:

  • You want to combine MT4 trading with social investing tools
  • You prefer a community-driven interface with leaderboard features

Consider Alternatives:

  • You need raw spreads or ECN pricing structures
  • You want access to a broader asset range
Visit Broker
Accepts clients from the Philippines. Average spread EUR/USD 1.70 pips on trading account with lowest minimum deposit of 10 USD. Max leverage 1000:1. Islamic account available. MT4/MT5 platform supported. NAGA is regulated by CySEC, BaFin, and SVG FSA.
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What is MetaTrader 4 (MT4)?

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is the world’s most popular Forex trading platform. Known for its speed, reliability, and flexibility, MT4 offers advanced charting, custom indicators, and full support for automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs). It connects directly to your broker’s pricing and execution and is available on desktop, web, and mobile.

How MetaTrader 4 Works

MetaTrader 4 is a trading interface you install on desktop, open in a browser, or run on mobile. Your broker operates the MT4 server behind the scenes, connecting the platform to live pricing and handling every order request. When you open or close a trade, MT4 simply transmits the instruction—your broker determines how it’s executed.

What this means in practice:

  • MT4 is the platform; your broker controls spreads, execution, and available markets.
  • You log in using credentials supplied by your broker, not MetaQuotes.
  • The software is identical across brokers, but the trading experience varies widely depending on server quality and pricing.

Why MT4 Is Still So Popular

Released in 2005, MT4 remains the most widely used Forex trading platform thanks to a combination of speed, stability, and an unmatched ecosystem of trading tools.

Why Traders Continue Choosing MT4

  • Exceptional reliability: MT4 runs smoothly on most devices, even during volatile conditions.
  • Deep technical analysis tools: Advanced charting, multiple indicators, and custom templates support a wide range of strategies.
  • Unmatched customisation: Thousands of user-made indicators, scripts, and utilities extend the platform far beyond its standard tools.
  • Automated trading support: The MQL4 language powers one of the largest libraries of Expert Advisors (EAs) for algorithmic trading.
  • Widespread broker compatibility: Nearly every Forex broker offers MT4, making it easy to switch providers without learning a new platform.
  • Lightweight and fast: MT4 uses minimal system resources, ensuring quick loading and responsive execution.

For many traders, these strengths outweigh MT4’s dated interface and limited built-in features.

MT4 vs Other Platforms

While MT4 remains the dominant Forex platform, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView provide more modern features. The right choice depends on your trading style and asset preferences.

MT4 vs MT5

MT4 is ideal for Forex-only traders or those who rely on long-tested MQL4 EAs. MT5 suits traders who want multi-asset access, more timeframes, more order types, and faster backtesting.


Feature

MT4

MT5

Best For

Forex-only traders

Multi-asset traders

Programming

MQL4

MQL5 (faster, more flexible)

Timeframes

9

21

Pending Orders

4

6

Backtesting

Local, single-thread

Multi-thread + cloud

Interface

Dated

More modern

MT4 vs cTrader

cTrader offers a modern interface, superior built-in charting, and ECN-style execution. MT4 remains the better choice for traders who rely heavily on custom indicators, EAs, and established workflows.

MT4 vs TradingView

TradingView delivers industry-leading charting and a strong social community. MT4 excels at trade execution and automated trading. Many traders analyse on TradingView and execute trades on MT4 to combine the strengths of both platforms.

Which Should You Use?

  • Stick with MT4 if you already use MQL4 indicators or EAs.
  • Choose MT5 or cTrader if you want more asset classes and built-in tools.
  • Use TradingView for charting and MT4 for execution if you want the best of both.

Core MT4 Features and Charting Tools

Most traders spend their time in MT4’s charting window, which is a key reason for its lasting popularity.

  • Chart types: Candlestick, bar, and line charts with full customisation.
  • Timeframes: Nine built-in timeframes from 1-minute to 1-month.
  • Technical indicators: Dozens included by default (MA, RSI, MACD, Bollinger Bands), plus thousands from the MT4 marketplace.
  • Drawing tools: Trendlines, channels, Fibonacci tools, and more for manual analysis.
  • Profiles and templates: Save complete chart setups and reuse them across instruments or accounts.

These tools allow traders to create a clean, efficient workspace suited to any strategy.

Getting Started with MT4

Setting up MetaTrader 4 is straightforward, and most brokers make the process beginner-friendly. A demo account is the safest way to learn the platform before trading real money.

1. Choose a Regulated MT4 Broker

Select a well-regulated broker offering tight spreads, fast execution, and strong oversight. Your broker—not MT4—determines your trading conditions.

2. Open a Demo or Live Account

A free MT4 demo account mirrors real market conditions and helps you practise placing trades, managing risk, and navigating the platform.

3. Download or Access MT4

MT4 is available in three main formats:

  • Desktop (Windows): Full functionality, including EAs and custom indicators.
  • WebTrader: Browser-based access with no installation required.
  • Mobile (Android): Ideal for monitoring and managing trades on the go.

Your broker will provide the correct download links and server settings.

4. Log In With Broker Credentials

MT4 accounts are created by your broker. Use the login details in the welcome email to connect your MT4 terminal.

5. Learn the Fundamentals

Get familiar with:

  • Switching chart types and timeframes
  • Adding indicators and drawing tools
  • Placing and modifying market and pending orders
  • Using stop-loss and take-profit levels
  • Saving templates and layouts

Practise on demo first. When going live, start small and scale up as your confidence grows.

Copy Trading on MT4

MT4 supports copy trading through its built-in Signals service and third-party integrations.

How copy trading works:

  1. Choose a verified signal provider based on performance and risk.
  2. Set your preferred lot size and risk parameters.
  3. MT4 automatically mirrors the provider’s trades in real time.
  4. Pause, adjust, or stop copying whenever you like.

Copy trading is useful for learning from experienced traders, but results are not guaranteed. Always review a provider’s history and risk profile.

Automated Trading with Expert Advisors (EAs)

Expert Advisors allow MT4 to run automated strategies written in MQL4. EAs can analyse markets, open trades, and manage positions without manual input.

Key EA features:

  • Write or customise EAs using MQL4.
  • Install free or paid EAs from the MT4 Marketplace.
  • Use MT4’s Strategy Tester to backtest strategies with historical data.
  • Run EAs continuously on your device or a VPS.

Automated trading requires supervision. Poorly designed EAs can be risky, and markets can behave unpredictably. Always test EAs on a demo account first.

Disadvantages of MT4

While MT4 is still the most widely used Forex trading platform, it has notable limitations:

  • Outdated design: The interface feels dated compared to MT5, cTrader, and TradingView.
  • Forex-focused: Limited native support for multi-asset trading.
  • No native Mac app: Requires workarounds or the web version on Mac.
  • Basic backtesting: Single-threaded testing is slower and less precise than MT5’s.
  • Fewer order types and timeframes: Restrictive for advanced strategy development.
  • Ecosystem shifting toward MT5: Many new tools are released in MQL5 only.
  • Minimal ongoing updates: MT4 receives limited development attention from MetaQuotes.

Costs of Using MT4

The MT4 software is free, but trading on it involves several broker-controlled costs:

  • Spreads: The difference between bid and ask; crucial for active traders.
  • Commissions: Common on ECN/raw accounts with tighter spreads.
  • Swap fees: Overnight financing costs, which may be positive or negative.
  • Non-trading fees: Withdrawal, inactivity, or currency conversion fees.
  • Optional extras: Paid EAs, premium indicators, VPS hosting, and data feeds.

Your total trading cost depends far more on your broker than on the platform itself.

How to Choose an MT4 Forex Broker

Since most brokers offer MT4, key differences come from regulation, pricing, and execution.

1. Regulation and Safety

Choose brokers regulated by authorities such as FCA, ASIC, CySEC, or MAS. Strong regulation ensures client-fund protection and transparent operations.

2. Trading Costs

Compare spreads, commissions, and swap rates—especially on the instruments you trade most.

3. Execution Quality

Execution is entirely broker-dependent. Look for stable, low-slippage execution on ECN, STP, or DMA-style accounts.

4. Account Types and Minimum Deposits

Select between Standard, Raw/ECN, micro/cent, or Islamic accounts based on your strategy and deposit size.

5. MT4 Enhancements

Some brokers offer upgraded MT4 tools, such as custom indicators, trading utilities, or VPS services.

6. Platform Access

Ensure the broker supports the MT4 formats you need—desktop (essential for EAs), WebTrader, and mobile.

Platform Availability: Desktop, Web, and Mobile

MT4 works across multiple devices, though each version offers different capabilities.

  • Desktop (Windows): Full MT4 functionality, including EAs, custom indicators, and backtesting.
  • Desktop (Mac): No native app; requires workarounds or the web version.
  • WebTrader: Accessible from any browser but does not support EAs or custom indicators.
  • Mobile (Android): Suitable for monitoring and simple trade management; not ideal for deep analysis.

The desktop version remains the most powerful and flexible option.

Final Thoughts

Despite its age, MetaTrader 4 remains the leading platform for retail Forex traders thanks to its stability, fast execution, and strong technical analysis tools. Its huge ecosystem of EAs, indicators, and community resources continues to set it apart from newer platforms.

However, MT4 is only as effective as the broker you use. Regulation, spreads, execution quality, and support ultimately determine your trading conditions. With a well-regulated broker and disciplined risk management, MT4 remains a reliable and versatile choice for traders of all experience levels in 2025.

"MetaTrader 4 is the most popular Forex trading platform in the world and has been for the last twenty years."

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Chris Cammack
Chris Cammack is partner manager and senior financial writer at FxScouts, specialising in broker relations and forex market analysis. As the former Head of Content (2019–2024), he set editorial standards for all content published at FxScouts, including broker reviews, broker comparison pages and education. With over a decade of experience in editorial management and partner relations, Chris builds and maintains our relationships with our partners to provide the best Forex trading experience for our users. He also co-hosts the “Let’s Talk Forex” podcast with Alison Heyerdahl, where he explores trading strategies, industry news, and macroeconomic trends to help traders navigate the markets with confidence.

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Alison Heyerdahl is the Head of Content at FxScouts and an experienced financial writer with extensive hands-on experience in the Forex trading industry. She specialises in Forex trading, broker analysis, and market research, with a focus on helping traders navigate the complex world of online trading safely and confidently. Alison has tested and reviewed more than 100 Forex brokers, assessing everything from regulatory status and trading conditions to platform features and customer support. Her goal is to provide honest, detailed, and practical insights that traders can rely on when choosing a broker. She’s also produced more than 100 educational videos for the FxScouts YouTube channel, where she explains trading concepts in a clear, accessible way. As the co-host of the “Let’s Talk Forex” podcast, Alison shares expert commentary on broker reliability, trading strategies, and market developments—always with a focus on transparency and trader protection.

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