Top Forex Trading Platforms in 2025: Features, Tools, and Comparison

Jitanchandra Solanki
15 Min read

Traders often find it overwhelming to choose a forex trading platform… and why not? There are numerous apps and platforms in the market. Few highlight speed, others low cost, and some showcase advanced tools. With so many options available, it’s understandable that traders take time to compare before making a decision.  

At the end of the day, traders hope to find the top forex trading platform of 2025, one that complements their trading approach, is reliable, secure and easy to use.  

In this guide, we will explore what to look for in a currency trading platform. Furthermore, we will understand the factors to consider while choosing one and compare the widely used options in the market today.  

By the end of this guide, you will have a clearer perspective on what to look for when evaluating forex trading platforms. 

Let’s begin.  

The information in this article is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

What to Look for in a Forex Trading Platform (Beginner’s Checklist) 

If you are a trader, you would agree that a trading platform is the most important part of a trader’s setup. Having the right one may increase your efficiency in analysing the markets, while an unsuitable one may limit your overall experience.  

So, here are a few things to look out for: 

Ease of Use

When you have an open position, the last thing you want is to waste time figuring out the platform’s buttons instead of focusing on the market. 

Charting Tools

You need a platform that allows you to draw patterns and add indicators so that you can analyse the market on your own. 

Execution Speed

For a trader, timing is everything. That’s why the platform you choose should allow quick order placement. Right timing can make all the difference when prices move rapidly in the forex market.  

Mobile Access

Your forex trading platform should allow you to remain in control of your trades even when you are away from your laptop, using a mobile phone.  

Practice Accounts

It helps if your broker offers a demo account, giving you the chance to learn and test strategies safely before moving to live trading. 

Let’s look at two platforms, which are the most widely used software solutions in the retail forex market: MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, developed by MetaQuotes Corp. 

MetaQuotes Platforms: MT4 vs MT5 for Forex Trading 

Comparison of MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 
Feature  MT4  MT5 
Pending order types  4 orders available  6 orders available  
Market depth  Not available  Available
Built-in technical indicators  30 38
Graphical chart objects  31 44
Available timeframes  9 21
Economic calendar  Not integrated  Integrated within the platform  
Email system  Basic (no attachments)  Advanced (supports attachments)  
Account-to-account funds transfer  Not supported  Supported 
Communication (MQL5.community chat)  Not available  Built-in chat support  
Strategy tester  Single-threaded  Multi-threaded, multi-currency with real ticks 
Symbol limits  Up to 1,024 symbols  Unlimited symbols  
Supported markets  Forex only  Forex, Futures, Options, Stocks, Bonds  
Hedging and Netting  Supports Hedging only  Supports both Hedging and Netting  

Now that you have seen a gist of both the forex trading platforms, let’s dive deeper and explore how you can access them.  

How to Access MT4 and MT5 Platforms? 

MetaTrader platforms can be accessed in various ways based on your preference. Some traders would rather trade via a desktop application, while some would prefer a web platform or a mobile app. Each of the options has its advantages and disadvantages. For instance, some expert tools and plugins are accessible only on the desktop terminal, while the other two emphasise convenience and accessibility.  

MetaTrader WebTrader  

MT4 and MT5 can be accessed directly through your browser with WebTrader. This means you don’t have to download or install any software, just log in and start trading. You still get access to most charting tools, indicators, and order types. 

WebTrader is useful for traders who switch between devices. It may also be a good fit for investors who want quick access to their dashboard to monitor their portfolio, check price movements, or place an occasional order without installing the full software. This is how the MT WebTrader interface looks:  

Depicted: Admirals MetaTrader WebTrader - GBPJPY chart. Date Range: 1-hour chart of 19th August 2025. Date Captured: 19th August 2025. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Please note this image has been provided for illustration purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.  

Here’s how to use Admirals MetaTrader WebTrader  

MetaTrader Desktop Platform 

The desktop versions of MT4 and MT5 are designed for full time traders who analyse the markets day in and day out, as they provide maximum control.  

The desktop version comes with advanced charting, automated trading, also known as Expert Advisors (EAs), backtesting capabilities and the ability to install custom indicators. Among the three versions of MetaTrader platforms, the desktop version is widely regarded as the most suitable system to run uninterrupted strategies over long periods. 

Traders who constantly use algorithmic strategies or custom setups may prefer this setup. It might also suit anyone who prefers working from a fixed desk and values having the full power of the platform at their fingertips. 

MetaTrader Mobile App 

The final option in the list is the MT4 and MT5 mobile apps for iOS and Android. Designed as a convenient forex trading app for beginners and seasoned traders, they allow you to remain connected to the markets wherever you are. 

You can check live prices, open or close positions, view charts, and control your account directly from your phone. Although the mobile version does not offer as many charting tools as the desktop version, it could be a good choice for traders and investors who need the flexibility to control their positions on the go. 

Value-Added Tools for Enhanced Trading 

Value-added tools are the ones used to provide value to the above three versions, mostly for the desktop version. These plugins or extensions offer added benefits above the standard MetaTrader version. 

MetaTrader Supreme Edition 

While the standard version of the MetaTrader platform comes with a wide range of built-in features, some brokers, including Admirals, provide an additional plugin called the MetaTrader Supreme Edition. This additional plugin is meant to enhance the functionality of the standard MetaTrader platform with extra tools, widgets and indicators.  

Supreme Edition for MetaTrader 4 

MetaTrader 4 is already a comprehensive trading platform, but the Supreme Edition plugin adds over 50 additional tools to support your trading analysis. 

Here is the list of a few:   

  • A mini-terminal for more flexible one-click trading.  
  • Additional order types, such as OCA (One Cancels Another) orders. This order type basically allows you to place two or more orders at the same time. But if one order is executed, the other orders are automatically cancelled.  
  • The ability to drag and drop stop-loss and take-profit levels directly on charts. 

These tools are designed to give traders more flexibility and control when managing their positions. 

Supreme Edition for MetaTrader 5 

MetaTrader 5 comes with a broader range of built-in features compared with the standard version of MT4, and the Supreme Edition plugin extends this further with advanced trading tools such as: 

  • Inbuilt technical analysis insight, including access to an award-winning pattern recognition system from Trading Central.  
  • A mini-terminal function that helps traders open and manage positions more effectively, with an integrated lot-size and margin calculator and smart order lines for partial closing and time-based stops.  
  • An in-built trading history analyser, allowing traders to view detailed performance statistics to help optimise future decisions.  
  • Advanced trading indicators, including candle countdown, pivot points, renko charts, and more. 

These features are intended to provide traders with deeper insights and a wider selection of tools to support their strategies. 

StereoTrader 

StereoTrader is most suitable for active traders, day traders, and scalpers who need fast execution and precise trade management.  

Some of its advanced order types include: 

Limit Pullbacks 

A limit pullback order helps traders book potential profits after one side momentum trend. For example, if the price of a currency pair rises rapidly in your favour, this order waits for a small pullback before closing your position. This can help capture more of the upward momentum rather than exiting too early at your initial take-profit level. 

It is useful for scalpers and news traders because it may improve timing and help maximise potential gains in fast-moving markets. However, like any trading tool, it does not guarantee profits, and market conditions can still result in missed exit opportunities. 

One Click Trading Shortcut 

StereoTrader allows orders to be executed with a single click. You have to place an order, and the system will automatically detect whether it’s a limit or a stop order. Moreover, it comes with over 30 one-click commands, which may make your order placement quicker.  

Because Admirals is a certified StereoTrader partner, clients can access the full range of functions if they meet the account balance requirement

Learn more about StereoTrader and its features with Admirals

Virtual Private Server (VPS) 

A Virtual Private Server (VPS) allows traders to run their trading platforms on a remote server instead of relying solely on their computer. This service is useful for traders who use EAs or automated strategies. It ensures that trades can keep running without interruptions from power outages, internet issues, or device shutdowns.  

Brokers like Admirals provide VPS access for both MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, letting traders keep their strategies running around the clock on secure servers.  

The service is available free of charge to clients who meet certain account balance requirements, making it a practical option for those looking for consistent performance. 

Learn more about the Admirals VPS Service

How to Choose a Top Forex Trading Platform That Fits Your Trading Style? 

Every trader follows a different approach to trading. Some traders may identify by their style of trading, such as swing trading, news trading, momentum trading, or intraday trading. Others may define themselves more by their trading approach like relying heavily on charting and tools, or preferring automation through Expert Advisors (EAs), etc. 

Hence, the top forex trading platform can vary from trader to trader. 

So, how to choose the ideal forex trading platform for you?  

Start by analysing how you trade. 

  • If you are a scalper or someone who makes quick moves in volatile markets, speed and one-click execution are the features to prioritise in the platform you are looking for.  
  • If you engage more in analysing charts and trends, a platform with advanced charting tools might suit you better. 

As a trader, the best approach is to begin analysing your trading approach first and then pick a platform that supports your workflow rather than forcing yourself to adapt to it. By picking the right tools which match your trading approach, you can stay consistent, focused, and be more confident in managing trades. 

Choosing a broker like Admirals can give traders access to MetaTrader platforms along with value-added tools such as Supreme Edition, StereoTrader, and VPS hosting which could help you in your forex trading journey. Click the banner below and practice trading with a demo account with Admirals.  

Trade with a risk-free demo account

Practise trading with virtual funds

Other articles that might interest you: 

Frequently Asked Questions 

 

Can I use MetaTrader on a Mac?

Yes, MetaTrader can be accessed on Mac devices. 

 

Which platform access works best for forex remote trading? 

Remote trading can be done through a desktop, a web, or a forex trading mobile app. The best option depends on your trading requirements: 

For example,  

  • Desktop offers advanced charting and automation. 
  • Web can be used for logging in from any browser without installation. 
  • Mobile apps help you stay connected and manage trades no matter where you are. 

 

What tools improve charting or automation capabilities?

Add-ons such as MetaTrader Supreme Edition provide additional charting capabilities. However, it’s important to remember that using automated strategies or Expert Advisors (EAs) does not reduce risk and comes with its own set of limitations. 

 

About Admirals     

Admirals is a multi-award-winning, regulated Forex and CFD broker, offering trading on over 8,000 financial instruments via the world's most popular trading platforms: MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5.  

INFORMATION ABOUT ANALYTICAL MATERIALS:

The given data provides additional information regarding all analysis, estimates, prognosis, forecasts, market reviews, weekly outlooks or other similar assessments or information (hereinafter “Analysis”) published on the websites of Admirals investment firms operating under the Admirals trademark (hereinafter “Admirals”) Before making any investment decisions please pay close attention to the following:

  • This is a marketing communication. The content is published for informative purposes only and is in no way to be construed as investment advice or recommendation. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research, and that it is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research.
  • Any investment decision is made by each client alone whereas Admirals shall not be responsible for any loss or damage arising from any such decision, whether or not based on the content.
  • With view to protecting the interests of our clients and the objectivity of the Analysis, Admirals has established relevant internal procedures for prevention and management of conflicts of interest.
  • The Analysis is prepared by an analyst (hereinafter “Author”). The Author Jitanchandra Solanki is an employee for Admirals. This content is a marketing communication and does not constitute independent financial research.
  • Whilst every reasonable effort is taken to ensure that all sources of the content are reliable and that all information is presented, as much as possible, in an understandable, timely, precise and complete manner, Admirals does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information contained within the Analysis.
  • Any kind of past or modelled performance of financial instruments indicated within the content should not be construed as an express or implied promise, guarantee or implication by Admirals for any future performance. The value of the financial instrument may both increase and decrease and the preservation of the asset value is not guaranteed.
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