MetaTrader 5 is a powerful trading platform that has been continuing the legacy of its predecessor Metatrader 4. Since MT4 is still the most popular forex trading platform on a global level, its successor MT5 is also climbing up the popularity ladder, becoming the new favourite of modern traders. This guide is intended for beginners who are new to the MT5 platform and want to learn how to use it. We will cover everything from what the MT5 platform is, how to download and install it, the top features that make MT5 unique, the different order types offered on MT5 and how you can trade on MT5. Read More
What Is MetaTrader 5?
MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is a popular trading platform designed for online trading in financial markets, including Forex, stocks, indices, cryptocurrencies, futures, and commodities. Developed by MetaQuotes Software Corporation, it is way ahead of its predecessor MT4 with some excellent tools and features. MT5 provides traders with a range of features to assist in trading, including advanced charting tools, technical analysis indicators, algorithmic trading capabilities, and the ability to conduct backtesting of trading strategies.
It also offers a more comprehensive range of order types than its predecessor, including stop-loss and take-profit orders and more advanced order types, such as pending orders and trailing stops. One of the key differences between MT5 and MT4 is the expanded range of asset classes available on the platform. While MT4 download was primarily designed to focus on forex trading, MT5 is a better option to trade several instruments, including stocks, futures, and options.
Another important feature of MT5 is its ability to handle multiple trading accounts simultaneously. This is particularly useful for traders who manage multiple accounts or trade on behalf of clients. MT5 is a versatile and comprehensive trading platform with advanced features and a wide range of asset classes. It is a popular choice among traders and brokers and is widely considered one of the most reliable and robust trading platforms available in the market today.
How To Download & Install MT5?
MT5 is freely available for online download and installation on many operating systems, and the mobile app version of MT5 is also available on the play store and app store. Here are the simple steps to download and install MT5:
- Visit the official website of your preferred broker that offers MT5 and navigate to the download page.
- Click on the download button to initiate the download process.
- Once the download is complete, run the downloaded file.
- Accept the terms and conditions and follow the prompts to complete the installation process.
- Once the installation is complete, launch the platform and enter your login credentials provided by your broker.
- You can now start trading on the MT5 platform.
It is important to note that the installation process may vary slightly depending on your operating system and broker. If you encounter any issues during installation, you can contact your broker’s customer support for assistance.
Top Features Of MetaTrader 5
- Multiple Markets: MT5 allows you to trade multiple financial markets, including Forex, stocks, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This means you can trade a variety of instruments on one platform.
- Advanced Charting: MT5 provides advanced charting tools that allow you to analyse the markets and identify trading opportunities. You can customise the charts with various indicators, drawing tools, and time frames.
- Automated Trading: MT5 supports automated trading using Expert Advisors (EAs). EAs are computer programs used to automatically execute trades based on pre-defined rules and conditions. This allows traders to automate their trading strategies.
- Backtesting: MT5 has a built-in backtesting feature that allows you to test your trading strategies on historical data. This helps you see how your strategy would have performed and make necessary adjustments before trading live.
- Mobile Trading: MT5 is available on mobile devices, which allows you to trade on the go. You can access your trading account, monitor the markets, and execute trades from your smartphone or tablet.
- Risk Management: MT5 provides several risk management tools to help you manage your trading risk. These include stop-loss orders, take-profit orders, and trailing stop orders.
- More Tools: MT5 is known for its additional tools compared to MT4. It offers 21 timeframes, 38 built–in indicators, 44 graphical objects and additional order types.
Different Order Types On MetaTrader 5
- Market Orders: Market orders are used to execute a trade at the current market price. It is the most common type of order used by traders, and it guarantees execution, but the price may vary from the quoted price due to slippage.
- Pending Orders: Pending orders allow traders to enter the market at a predetermined price level. They can be of four types:Buy Limit: It is a pending order to buy at a price lower than the current market price.
Sell Limit: It is a pending order to sell at a price higher than the current market price.
Buy Stop: It is a pending order to buy at a price higher than the current market price.
Sell Stop: It is a pending order to sell at a price lower than the current market price. - Stop Loss Orders: Stop loss orders allow traders to limit their potential losses by closing their position automatically at a predefined price level. It is a pending order used to limit losses in case the trade goes against the trader’s expectations.
- Take Profit Orders: Take profit orders allow traders to close their position automatically at a predefined price level to lock in their profits. It is a type of pending order used to realise gains when the trade moves in the trader’s favour.
- Trailing Stop Orders: Trailing stop orders are a type of stop loss order that allows traders to lock in their profits while minimising potential losses. It automatically adjusts the stop loss price as the trade moves in the trader’s favour.
- OCO (One Cancels the Other) Orders: OCO orders allow traders to place two orders simultaneously, where one cancels the other when triggered. It helps traders to limit their potential losses while also taking advantage of market opportunities.
In summary, MetaTrader 5 offers various types of orders that traders can use to execute their trades, limit their losses, and lock in their profits. The choice of order type depends on the trader’s trading strategy, risk tolerance, and market conditions.
How Do You Trade On MT5?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to trade on MT5:
- Open an Account: The first step is to create an account with a broker that offers an MT5 trading platform. You will need to provide your personal information and complete the necessary verification process.
- Download and install MT5: Once you have created an account, download and install the MT5 trading platform from your broker’s website.
- Fund your Account: Before starting trading, you need to fund your account. This can be done through various payment methods offered by your broker.
- Choose a Market: MT5 supports a wide range of markets, including forex, stocks, commodities, and indices. Choose the market and asset class you want to trade in.
- Analyse the Market: Use the charting tools provided by MT5 to analyse the market and identify potential trading opportunities. You can use various technical indicators and chart types to help you make your trading decisions.
- Place a Trade: Once you have identified a trading opportunity, place a trade by selecting the asset, the order type, the position size, and the stop-loss and take-profit levels.
- Monitor your Trade: Keep an eye on your trade and make adjustments as necessary. You can use MT5’s built-in trading signals to help you stay on top of your trades.
- Close your Trade: When you are ready to close your trade, simply select the position you want to close and choose “close order.”
That’s it! Trading on MT5 may seem complicated at first, but with a bit of practice, you can quickly get the hang of it and start making profitable trades.
In conclusion, the MT5 platform is a powerful tool for beginners keen to have a superior trading experience. The platform is user-friendly, and with a little bit of practice, beginners can quickly become proficient in using it. However, it is essential to remember that trading always involves some degree of risk, and it is crucial to approach it with a sound strategy and risk management plan. With the right mindset and tools, beginners can confidently navigate the world of trading using the MT5 platform.