After nearly two decades of dominance, MetaTrader 4 (MT4) has officially been overtaken by MetaTrader 5 (MT5) in trading volume. According to the latest Finance Magnates Intelligence Report, MT5 accounted for 54.2% of the total volume between the two platforms in Q1 2025, while MT4 fell to 45.8%. This marks a historic shift in the trading landscape—and one with direct implications for prop traders worldwide.

The Rise of MT5

While MT4 earned its place as the most used platform in the retail and prop space due to its reliability, custom tools, and wide broker adoption, the tide has been turning for years.

MT5’s multi-asset capabilities, faster execution, built-in economic calendar, and more flexible programming environment (MQL5) have positioned it as the natural evolution. Moreover, MetaQuotes has steadily scaled back development and support for MT4, prompting brokers—and now prop firms—to shift their infrastructures to MT5.

What This Means for Prop Firms

For prop trading companies, the data reinforces what many have already started doing: migrating evaluation and funded accounts to MT5. As new traders enter the space and prop firms modernize, MT5’s rise represents:

• Better reporting and analytics for tracking prop account metrics
• Improved support for multi-asset trading (stocks, futures, crypto)
• Greater long-term platform sustainability as MT4 sunsets
• Compatibility with newer EAs and trading tools built for MQL5

MT4 Isn’t Dead—Yet

Although MT5 now leads in volume, MT4 remains widely used, especially among firms and traders who rely on legacy strategies or third-party plugins. However, the trend is clear: the industry is moving on.

Looking Ahead

Beyond MT5’s growth, the report also highlights that alternative platforms like cTrader, DXtrade, and Match-Trader are gaining traction, now representing 27% of the market. For prop firms aiming to differentiate themselves or appeal to non-MetaQuotes users, this presents new strategic options.

As MT5 officially claims the throne, prop traders should take note: platform choice is no longer just about habit—it’s about future-proofing your strategy.

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