MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is the flagship trading platform from MetaQuotes, the company behind the MetaTrader family. It's the successor to MT4 and the most capable version — multi-asset, faster, and built for far more than forex. You don't buy MT5 from MetaQuotes directly; you get it free from a broker that offers it, then log in with that broker's account.
Key features of MetaTrader 5
- Multi-asset: forex, stocks, indices, commodities and crypto CFDs in one terminal (MT4 was forex-first).
- Deeper analysis: 21 timeframes and 38 built-in indicators (vs MT4's 9 and 30), plus depth of market and an economic calendar.
- Automation: Expert Advisors and the MQL5 language for algorithmic trading, backtesting and the MQL5 marketplace.
- Account modes: both hedging and netting; MT4 supports only one position per symbol.
MetaTrader 5 vs MetaTrader 4
MT4 remains popular for pure forex and Expert Advisors, but MT5 is newer, faster and multi-asset. Most brokers now default new accounts to MT5. If you're choosing today and want more markets and analysis tools, MT5 is the better starting point.
How to get MetaTrader 5
MT5 is provided free by brokers. Open an account with a broker that offers it, then download MT5 from that broker's platform page. Regulated brokers offering MT5:
- FxPro — MT5 with fast execution (plus MT4 and cTrader). Open an MT5 account at FxPro →
- XM — MT5 for forex, stocks, indices and commodities; low minimum. Open an MT5 account at XM →
- AvaTrade — MT5 across forex and CFDs, regulated in multiple jurisdictions. Open an MT5 account at AvaTrade →
- RoboForex — MT5 with broad market access. Open an MT5 account at RoboForex →
- Deriv — Deriv MT5 with forex, CFDs and 24/7 synthetic indices. Open Deriv MT5 →
Download and system requirements
- Open an account with a broker that offers MT5 (above).
- Download the MT5 installer from your broker's official platform page — not third-party sources.
- Install and log in with the server and credentials your broker provides.
Minimum: Windows 8.1+ (10/11 recommended); macOS via the broker build or web terminal; Android and iOS apps are also available. A browser web terminal runs with nothing to install.
FAQ
Is MetaTrader 5 free? Yes — brokers provide MT5 free; you only fund your trading account.
Is MT5 better than MT4? MT5 is newer and multi-asset with more tools; MT4 stays popular for forex and EAs. Most new accounts default to MT5.
Can I download MT5 without a broker? You can install the terminal, but you can't see live prices or trade without a broker account and server login.