Trading platforms
The main trading platforms — MetaTrader 4 and 5, cTrader, TradingView, and broker-built software — compared for charting, execution and automation.
The platform is where you analyse, place and manage trades. Most brokers offer one or more of the following. This page describes them; broker-specific pages review the version each broker provides.
MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
Released in 2005 by MetaQuotes, still the most widely used retail forex platform. Simple, stable, and supported by a huge library of custom indicators and automated strategies (Expert Advisors) written in MQL4. Limited to forex and CFDs; charting is dated; no longer actively developed.
Best for: forex traders who use existing EAs and indicators, or want the simplest possible setup.
MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
The successor, released in 2010, with more timeframes, more order types, an economic calendar, a built-in market depth view, and support for stocks and futures alongside forex. Its strategy tester is much stronger than MT4’s. Programs are written in MQL5 and are not compatible with MT4.
Best for: traders who want one platform across asset classes, or who develop and backtest automated strategies.
cTrader
Built by Spotware, positioned as a cleaner and more modern alternative to MetaTrader, with transparent order execution, level-two pricing, detachable charts and a C#-based automation environment. Offered by fewer brokers.
Best for: discretionary traders who value interface quality and execution transparency.
TradingView
A browser and app-based charting platform with the largest social community of traders publishing ideas. Charting and drawing tools are the industry standard; the Pine Script language allows custom indicators and strategies; many brokers now allow direct trading from TradingView charts. Free tier is limited; paid plans add indicators, alerts and layouts.
Best for: analysis and charting across all markets, and increasingly for execution through connected brokers.
Broker proprietary platforms
Many large brokers build their own web and mobile platforms. They are usually well integrated with the broker’s account, news and education, and easier for beginners. They rarely support third-party automation and tie you to that broker.
Best for: beginners, and traders who mainly use a phone.
Professional and US-market platforms
For US stocks, options and futures, platforms such as thinkorswim, Interactive Brokers’ Trader Workstation and NinjaTrader offer deeper tools and direct exchange access, with a steeper learning curve.