Is MT4 still good in 2025? Honest review + broker recommendations

Despite the rapid evolution of trading technology and the introduction of newer platforms like MetaTrader 5 (MT5), cTrader, and TradingView, MetaTrader 4 (MT4) remains one of the most widely used trading platforms in 2025.

But why does a platform launched in 2005 continue to thrive two decades later? Let’s explore the key reasons behind MT4’s enduring popularity.

Besides, you can also check ➡ Best MetaTrader 4 brokers

Familiarity and industry standard

MT4 has been the go-to platform for forex and CFD traders for nearly 20 years. Millions of traders, brokers, and educators have built their strategies, tools, and businesses around it. The sheer familiarity and reliability make it difficult for traders to switch, even when newer alternatives emerge.

Lightweight and stable performance

Unlike some modern platforms that require high processing power, MT4 is lightweight and runs smoothly even on older computers. This makes it accessible to traders in regions with limited hardware or internet speeds, ensuring global adoption.

Massive library of expert advisors (EAs) and indicators

MT4’s MQL4 scripting language has led to the creation of thousands of free and paid Expert Advisors (EAs), custom indicators, and scripts. Traders rely on these automated tools for algorithmic trading, backtesting, and strategy execution. Despite MT5’s improvements, many developers still prefer MQL4 for its simplicity.

Broker support and compatibility

Most forex and CFD brokers still offer MT4 alongside newer platforms because of client demand. Even in 2025, many traders refuse to switch to MT5 due to differences in hedging, order execution, and strategy compatibility. Brokers accommodate this preference to retain customers.

Strong community and educational resources

MT4 has one of the largest trading communities in the world. Countless forums, YouTube tutorials, and courses are tailored specifically for MT4 users. This wealth of knowledge makes it easier for new traders to learn and for experienced traders to refine their strategies.

Customization and user-friendly interface

While newer platforms offer flashy features, MT4’s simple, customizable interface remains a favorite. Traders can easily modify charts, install plugins, and set up automated trading without unnecessary complexity.

No forced migration to MT5

Many expected MT5 to replace MT4, but MetaQuotes never discontinued MT4, allowing brokers and traders to keep using it. Since MT5 lacks full backward compatibility (particularly for EAs), traders have stuck with the proven MT4 ecosystem.

BTW ➡ The best MetaTrader 5 brokers: Top platforms for Forex and CFD trading

MT4 vs. other trading platforms: key comparisons

MT4 unbeatable pros

While flashy new platforms promise the moon, MT4 remains the undisputed heavyweight champion for real traders. Here’s why the pros stick with it:

1. Battle-tested reliability

✅ 20+ years of market crashes, flash crashes, and broker meltdowns – MT4 has survived them all
✅ Zero downtime during major news events (unlike some “modern” platforms that choke on NFP)
✅ Runs smoothly on a 10-year-old laptop – No $3,000 gaming PC required

2. The EA empire

🤖 500,000+ free & paid Expert Advisors – The largest algo-trading library on earth
🤖 MQL4 is easy to learn (unlike MT5’s complex MQL5) – Code an EA in hours, not weeks
🤖 Underground EA communities where the real edge gets shared (if you know where to look)

3. Broker manipulation-proof

🛡️ Standardized order execution – What you see is what you get
🛡️ No “last look” nonsense – Unlike some “ECN” platforms with fancy names
🛡️ Real hedging capability (RIP US traders) – The way trading was meant to be

4. The trader’s swiss army knife

🔧 One-click trading that actually works (looking at you, WebTrader)
🔧 Customizable hotkeys – Execute trades faster than a coked-up prop trader
🔧 Lightning-fast backtests – If you know the secret settings

5. The secret of professional traders

💰 Hedge funds still use MT4 (through white labels) – Just ask the guys running 8-figure accounts
💰 Most “MT5 brokers” actually run MT4 servers – The liquidity is better
💰 All the real trading tools are built for MT4 first – The new stuff is for retail gamblers

The best MT4 brokers

We tested 50+ brokers to bring you these uncensored profiles:

BlackBull Markets

• Regulation: FMA (New Zealand), FSA (Seychelles)
• Spreads: From 0.1 pips (ECN account)
• Leverage: Up to 1:500
• Key features:
  • True ECN liquidity with depth of market
  • Free VPS for automated trading
  • Institutional-grade execution speeds
  • Supports hedging and scalping

Exness

• Regulation: FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), FSCA (South Africa)
• Spreads: From 0.0 pips (Raw Spread account)
• Leverage: Up to 1:Unlimited (Professional clients)
• Key features:
  • Instant withdrawal processing
  • No requotes on market orders
  • Commission-based pricing available
  • Stable MT4 connectivity globally

AvaTrade

• Regulation: Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC, FSCA
• Spreads: From 0.9 pips (Standard account)
• Leverage: Up to 1:400 (Retail)
• Key features:
  • Fixed and variable spread options
  • AvaSocial copy trading integration
  • Negative balance protection
  • 24/5 multilingual support

XM Group

• Regulation: ASIC, CySEC, FCA
• Spreads: From 0.6 pips (Standard account)
• Leverage: Up to 1:1000
• Key features:
  • Eight MT4 account types
  • Free daily market research
  • No minimum deposit requirement
  • Ultra-low latency execution

HF Markets (HFM)

• Regulation: CySEC, FCA, FSCA
• Spreads: From 0.1 pips (Premium account)
• Leverage: Up to 1:2000
• Key features:
  • Free trading signals and analysis
  • AutoChartist pattern recognition
  • Swap-free Islamic accounts
  • Tight spreads during volatile periods

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