Selecting a trading platform is like picking the perfect tool for a tricky job—it can change everything and help you to compete with market.
MetaTrader 4 (MT4) ruled the forex world for years, loved by traders in London and elsewhere for its dependability.
But now MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is in the spotlight, leaving London investors wondering: should you make the jump or stay loyal to the tried-and-true?
Here in 2025, trading’s a whole different beast. Between U.S.-China trade spats driving market swings, interest rates jumping around like nobody’s business, and more folks diving into crypto and automated trading, Londoners need a platform that can keep up.
So, how do MT4 and MT5 measure up in today’s wild markets?
Let’s dig in and figure it out.
A quick look at the platforms
Back in 2005, MetaQuotes Software dropped MetaTrader 4 (MT4), and it quickly became the gold standard for forex trading.
Why? It’s easy to use, has killer charting tools, and lets you run automated trading scripts called Expert Advisors (EAs).
It’s like the trusty pickup truck of trading platforms—simple, dependable, gets the job done.
Then, in 2010, MetaQuotes rolled out MetaTrader 5 (MT5), aiming to one-up MT4.
At first, traders weren’t sold—it felt like a big leap.
But fast-forward to 2024, and MT5’s stealing the show.
MetaQuotes said over 65% of new brokerage accounts last year were opened on MT5, not MT4. Why the shift?
MT5’s got more firepower, letting Londoners trade not just forex but stocks, crypto, commodities, and more.
Key differences between MT4 and MT5
| Feature | MetaTrader 4 | MetaTrader 5 |
| Release Year | 2005 | 2010 |
| Programming Language | MQL4 | MQL5 |
| Asset Classes Supported | Forex only | Forex, stocks, indices, crypto, commodities |
| Timeframes | 9 | 21 |
| Pending Order Types | 4 | 6 |
| Strategy Tester | Single-threaded | Multi-threaded with real tick data |
| Economic Calendar | No | Yes |
| Depth of Market (DOM) | No | Yes |
Market trends: Why the shift to MT5?
In 2023 and 2024, traders saw massive market volatility driven by global inflation, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions. For instance:
- Crude oil prices surged past $90/barrel amid escalating Red Sea trade route tensions.
- The U.S. Federal Reserve adjusted rates five times in 2024 alone.
- The 2024 Trump tariff announcement on Chinese tech imports caused a 12% dip in the Nasdaq in Q3.
In this landscape, MT5 became the preferred platform due to its broader asset range and improved risk management tools.
Traders are no longer just forex-focused—they want access to commodities, ETFs, indices, and crypto CFDs.
And for those asking, “Can you trade crypto on MetaTrader 5?”, yes.
MT5 allows London investors to trade popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin with real-time execution and integrated charting tools.
Programming language and EAs
MT4 runs on MQL4, a simple coding language that’s great for folks just starting out with programming.
Meanwhile, MT5 steps it up with MQL5, a more complex, object-oriented language that’s built for speed and better customization.
That makes MT5 the better pick for traders crafting fast-paced trading bots or weaving in AI-driven signals.
Order types and trade execution
A critical upgrade in MT5 is its support for two additional pending order types:
- Buy Stop Limit
- Sell Stop Limit
These additions, alongside MT5’s multi-threaded strategy tester and depth of market (DOM) feature, make it more responsive and functional for advanced strategies.
Interface and user experience
Both platforms share a similar layout, ensuring a smooth transition.
However, MT5 provides additional customization tools, multiple chart setups, and even a built-in economic calendar—a key feature for fundamental traders.
According to Statista, over 45% of retail traders now factor macroeconomic events into their trades, making tools like calendars and real-time news feeds crucial.
Broker and market availability
By 2025, most leading brokers have begun phasing out support for MT4.
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) even issued a guidance favoring multi-asset trading platforms for better transparency.
Many new brokerages now default to MT5, especially when offering access to regulated crypto CFD markets.
Use case scenarios
- MT4 is better for:
- Forex-only traders
- Simpler EA scripting
- Traders using older hardware or slower systems
- MT5 is better for:
- Multi-asset traders
- Advanced strategy developers
- Traders needing DOM or integrated analytics
- Those looking to trade on mobile and web apps with full functionality
Final verdict: Should you switch to MT5?
If you’re still using MT4, it might be time to evolve.
MT5 is not just a rebranded version—it’s a technically superior platform built for 2025’s dynamic markets.
Whether you’re trading stocks, commodities, or asking “Can you trade crypto on MetaTrader 5?” — MT5 delivers unmatched access and flexibility.
That said, no platform guarantees success.
Real performance stems from education, discipline, risk management, and continuous practice.
Before migrating fully, test MT5 in demo mode, explore its expanded features, and ensure your trading strategy aligns with its advanced capabilities.
Conclusion
The trading world is no longer one-dimensional.
In 2025, market volatility, diversified portfolios, and AI-enhanced automation are the new normal.
MetaTrader 5 rises to this challenge, offering tools for London investors that MT4 simply cannot match.
Choose the platform that fits your strategy, but don’t forget, your success lies not in the tool, but how you use it.
Picture credit: Free to use from Unsplash
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