How to Download MT4 on Mac

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is a Forex and CFD trading platform popular with traders around the world. With Admirals, traders can download and use MetaTrader 4 on both Mac and Windows operating systems. In this guide, we’ll explain how to download MT4 on Mac.
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.
How to Install MetaTrader 4 on Mac
Although traders can use MT4 on Mac, a native desktop version of the trading platform doesn’t actually exist. Instead, traders have the choice of either:
- Downloading a modified version of MetaTrader 4.
- Download the Windows version of MT4 using a virtual machine, such as Parallels.
Of these two options, the first is definitely the most straightforward; however, some users express a preference for running MT4 using a virtual machine. To cover all bases, we’ll explain how to do both! Let’s look at the more straightforward option first.
1. Register with Admirals
The modified version of MT4 is able to run on Mac by using Wine – a compatibility layer which allows Windows applications to work on other operating systems. This version is developed by MetaTrader developer, MetaQuotes, and is available from Admirals.
In order to start your download, you’ll need to register with Admirals and log in to the Dashboard.
2. Download the Installation Package
Once you’ve logged into the Dashboard, navigate to the MetaTrader page which can be found in them menu on the left-hand side of the screen.
In this section, you will find the download packages for MetaTrader 4, as well as a link for the web-based version of the platform.
You’ll also see download links for the MT4 Research Terminal and the MT4 Supreme Edition, add-ons for the trading platform which are designed to enhance your trading experience.
Click on the link for MetaTrader 4 for MacOS which will start the download of the installation package.
3. Open the Installation File
Once downloaded, open the file and follow the steps on your screen. You will need to read and agree to the terms of the software license agreement, and then the installer will start.
4. Installation Complete!
And that’s it! Once the download has completed, you’ll see a confirmation message and MetaTrader 4 should open automatically.
If, for some reason, the trading platform does not open, you can locate the icon in your Launchpad.
Now you can get started and explore the various features the platform has to offer. If you are looking for some help with using MT4, check out our guide: How to Use MetaTrader 4.
Download MetaTrader 4 for Mac with Parallels
As we noted already, although the download option we’ve just explained is more straightforward, some Mac users have expressed a preference for running the Windows version of MT4 using Parallels.
Parallels allows users to create a virtual machine on their computer, which is essentially a computer within a computer.
On this virtual machine, you can run the Windows operating system and, consequently, download and use Windows applications on your Mac.
Parallels for Mac requires an annual subscription or a one-time purchase. However, subject to certain eligibility requirements, Admirals clients can get three months of Parallels Pro for free.
1. Open a Live Account with Admirals
To get your three months free of Parallels Pro, you’ll need to register with Admirals, open a live account and maintain a minimum live account equity of 3,000 euros (or equivalent).
Once done, you will need to head to the Parallels page on our website and request a license for the software. This request will be reviewed by the Admirals team and, subject to approval, you will receive a license key by email.
Alternatively, if you prefer, you can purchase the software directly from Parallels.
2. Download Parallels for Mac and Create a Virtual Machine
After step one is complete, head to the Parallels website and download the software, following the instructions in the installation file.
Once the software has downloaded, you’ll be prompted to enter a license key and then you’ll be able to create a virtual machine. You’ll be presented with a screen similar to the one below, click the option for downloading Windows and the installation process will start.
Be patient as this process might take a while!
After it’s completed, you’ll be asked to accept the terms of the Windows license agreement before you’re forwarded to a page asking you to activate your new copy of Windows.
If you already have a license, you can enter these details. Alternatively, you can buy a new one.
3. Download MetaTrader 4
You can now use the Windows operating system directly from your Mac! Open the internet browser and head to the Admirals website.
Log into your Dashboard and select MetaTrader from the menu on the left of the screen. From here, you can download the installation file for MetaTrader 4 for Windows.
After the download is complete, open the installer and follow the instructions on screen; you’ll need to read and accept the software licence agreement before the download begins.
Once your downloads finished, MetaTrader 4 should open automatically, and you can get started on the platform!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does MT4 not work on Mac?
Whilst there is no native desktop version of MetaTrader 4 for MacOS, MT4 can still be used on Mac by using a modified version of the trading platform. Alternatively, traders can also download MetaTrader 4 for MacOS by using Parallels.
How to uninstall MT4 on Mac?
MetaTrader 4 can be uninstalled by locating the icon in your Applications folder, clicking it and dragging it in to the Bin in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen.
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