Navigating the world of online trading requires a reliable and powerful platform. For millions of traders, that platform has been MetaTrader 4. If you’re looking for a direct and safe MetaTrader 4 download, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive 2026 guide will provide you with everything you need to know, from official download sources to detailed installation instructions for any device, including PC, Mac, and mobile. We’ll walk you through the process of getting the MT4 trading platform up and running so you can start analyzing the financial markets and executing trades with confidence.
Quick Guide: MetaTrader 4 Download Links
- For Windows PC: Download directly from your chosen broker’s website.
- For Mac: Use a broker-provided native app or a compatibility solution like Wine.
- For Android/iOS: Find the official app on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
What is MetaTrader 4 and Why is it Still So Popular?
Launched in 2005 by MetaQuotes, MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is more than just a trading platform; it’s an institution in the retail forex and CFD trading world. Despite the release of its successor, MetaTrader 5, MT4 remains incredibly popular. Think of it as the undisputed workhorse of the industry—venerated for its stability, user-friendly interface, and immense customization capabilities. Its longevity is a testament to its robust design and the massive community that has been built around it over nearly two decades.
Key Features That Make MT4 a Trader’s Favorite
The platform’s enduring appeal isn’t accidental. It’s built on a foundation of powerful, accessible features that cater to both novice and experienced traders. Here’s what makes the MT4 trading platform a top choice:
- Advanced Charting Tools: MT4 offers comprehensive charting capabilities with multiple timeframes, analytical objects, and a vast array of technical indicators. This allows for in-depth price analysis, helping traders identify trends and patterns.
- Expert Advisors (EAs): This is arguably MT4’s killer feature. EAs are automated trading systems that can execute trades on your behalf based on a predefined strategy. The MQL4 programming language allows traders to create, test, and use their own EAs and custom indicators.
- Unmatched Customization: The platform has a massive online marketplace and community where users can find thousands of free and paid custom indicators, scripts, and EAs. This ecosystem allows traders to tailor the platform to their exact strategic needs.
- Security and Stability: MT4 is known for its reliability. It uses a 128-bit key to encrypt data between the trader’s terminal and the platform’s servers, ensuring a secure trading environment.
- Low Resource Consumption: Compared to more modern platforms, MT4 is lightweight and can run smoothly even on older hardware, making it accessible to a wider range of users.
Is MT4 Still a Good Choice in 2026?
In a world of rapidly advancing technology, is it wise to opt for a platform developed in 2005? For many, the answer is a resounding yes. While MT5 offers more features for trading centralized markets like stocks and commodities, MT4 remains the gold standard for decentralized markets, particularly forex. Its simplicity, immense library of existing EAs (which are not compatible with MT5), and widespread support from brokers make it a highly practical and reliable choice. For new traders, it presents a less intimidating learning curve, and for seasoned traders, its stability and familiar interface are invaluable.
How to Download MetaTrader 4: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process for a MetaTrader 4 download varies slightly depending on your operating system. A crucial point to understand is that MT4 is an interface; to trade live or demo markets, you must connect it to a broker. Therefore, the download process almost always begins with a broker.
Step 1: Choosing a Trusted Broker for MT4
Before you can download the software, you need to select a forex or CFD broker. The broker provides the market access, price feeds, and account infrastructure. The MT4 platform you download from them will be pre-configured to connect to their servers. When choosing a broker, consider factors like regulation, trading fees, customer support, and asset selection. Reputable brokers like Ultima Markets offer direct MT4 downloads and provide a seamless setup experience. To learn more about this crucial first step, you can read this Complete Guide from Basics to Brokers.
Step 2: Official MT4 PC Download (For Windows)
Downloading and installing MT4 on a Windows PC is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a successful MT4 download for PC:
- Visit Your Broker’s Website: Navigate to the website of the broker you have chosen and open an account (demo or live).
- Find the Trading Platforms Section: Look for a ‘Platforms’ or ‘Downloads’ section on their website. Select MetaTrader 4 for Windows.
- Download the Installer: Click the download link. An executable file (e.g., `mt4setup.exe`) will be saved to your computer.
- Run the Installer: Locate the downloaded file and double-click it to run. You may need to grant administrator permissions.
- Follow the Setup Wizard: Read and accept the license agreement. The installer will guide you through the rest of the process. You can typically choose the installation directory.
- Launch MT4 and Log In: Once installed, launch the platform. A window will pop up asking for your login credentials (account number, password, and server). Enter the details provided by your broker.
Step 3: The Ultimate MT4 for Mac Installation Guide
Getting a MetaTrader 4 for Mac download can be a bit trickier, as MetaQuotes never developed a native macOS version. However, there are two reliable methods to run it:
Method 1: Broker-Provided Native App
Many top brokers invest in creating their own native macOS version of MT4. This is the easiest and most stable method. Check your broker’s download page for a dedicated Mac version. The installation process is similar to any other Mac application: download the .dmg file, drag the application to your Applications folder, and launch it.
Method 2: Using a Compatibility Layer (Wine)
If your broker doesn’t offer a Mac version, you can use a free compatibility layer like Wine or PlayOnMac. These tools allow Windows applications to run on macOS. The process generally involves:
- Downloading and installing PlayOnMac.
- Downloading the standard Windows MT4 installer file (`.exe`) from your broker.
- Using PlayOnMac to install the MT4 `.exe` file.
- Launching MT4 from within the PlayOnMac interface.
Note: While effective, this method can sometimes be less stable than a native application, and not all EAs or custom indicators may work perfectly.
Step 4: Getting MetaTrader 4 on Android and iOS
Trading on the go is simple with the official MT4 mobile apps. They offer full trading functionality and basic analytical tools.
- For Android:
- Open the Google Play Store on your device.
- Search for “MetaTrader 4”.
- Select the official app developed by ‘MetaQuotes Software Corp.’ and tap ‘Install’.
- Once installed, open the app and select ‘Login to an existing account’.
- Search for your broker’s server, then enter your login credentials.
- For iOS (iPhone/iPad):
- Open the Apple App Store.
- Search for “MetaTrader 4”.
- Tap ‘Get’ to download and install the official app.
- Open the app, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘New Account’ > ‘Login to an existing account’.
- Find your broker’s server and log in with your account details.
Recommended Reading
For traders looking to expand their knowledge on trading platforms, we recommend exploring this detailed review on the 7 Best CFD Trading Platforms of 2025 to compare different options available in the market.
MT4 vs. MT5: Which Platform Should You Download?
This is a common question for new traders. While MT5 is newer, it’s not necessarily better—it’s just different. The choice depends entirely on your trading needs. MT4 was built specifically for forex trading, whereas MT5 was designed to be a multi-asset platform that can also trade stocks and commodities on centralized exchanges.
A Quick Comparison of Features
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences to help you decide which platform download is right for you.
| Feature | MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | MetaTrader 5 (MT5) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Market | Forex & CFDs | Forex, CFDs, Stocks, Futures, Options |
| Programming Language | MQL4 (Simpler, procedural) | MQL5 (Advanced, object-oriented) |
| Pending Order Types | 4 (Buy Stop, Sell Stop, Buy Limit, Sell Limit) | 6 (Includes Buy Stop Limit, Sell Stop Limit) |
| Technical Indicators | 30 built-in | 38 built-in |
| Timeframes | 9 | 21 |
| Economic Calendar | No | Yes, built-in |
| Hedging / Netting | Hedging allowed | Both Hedging and Netting systems |
Who Should Choose MT4?
You should opt for a MetaTrader 4 download if:
- You are a beginner looking for a straightforward and easy-to-learn platform.
- Your primary focus is on forex trading.
- You want to use a specific Expert Advisor or custom indicator that is only available for MT4.
- You value stability and a massive community for support and resources above all else.
If you need access to more markets or advanced analytical tools, exploring a broker that offers MT5 might be a better choice. Many brokers, including Ultima Markets, offer both, allowing you to choose the platform that best suits your style.
Conclusion
The MetaTrader 4 download remains the gateway for millions of traders entering the financial markets in 2026. Its powerful combination of user-friendly design, deep customization through Expert Advisors, and unwavering stability has solidified its legacy. While newer platforms exist, MT4’s vast ecosystem and singular focus on providing a robust forex trading experience ensure its relevance for years to come. By following this guide, you can safely download and install the platform on any device and take your first step into the world of online trading with a tool that has truly stood the test of time. Always ensure you partner with a trusted broker to guarantee the security of your funds and a reliable trading connection. For more information on fund security, consider learning about fund safety practices from regulated brokers.
FAQ
1. Is MetaTrader 4 free to download?
Yes, the MetaTrader 4 download and use of the platform software is completely free. You will not be charged by MetaQuotes or your broker for the software itself. However, to trade, you will need to fund a trading account with a broker, and you will incur trading costs like spreads or commissions.
2. Can I download MT4 without a broker?
While you can download a generic version of MT4 directly from the MetaQuotes website, it will only function as a demo with limited connectivity. To trade—even with a demo account that uses real market data—you must connect to a broker’s server. Therefore, the standard and recommended practice is to download the MT4 terminal directly from your chosen broker’s website.
3. Is it safe to download MT4 from third-party websites?
It is strongly advised against downloading MT4 from unofficial, third-party websites. These files could be outdated or, worse, contain malware or viruses that could compromise your computer and your trading account’s security. Always download the platform directly from a regulated, reputable broker or the official app stores for mobile devices.
4. What are the minimum system requirements for MT4 on PC?
MT4 is very lightweight. The minimum requirements are typically a computer running Windows 7 or higher, a processor with SSE2 support (most modern CPUs have this), and at least 512 MB of RAM. However, for a smoother experience, especially if running multiple charts and EAs, 1 GB of RAM or more is recommended.
5. Can I use the same MT4 account on multiple devices?
Absolutely. You can install MT4 on your PC, laptop, and smartphone and log in to the same trading account on all of them. Your account balance, open trades, and trading history will be synchronized across all devices, allowing you to manage your account from anywhere.