MT4 vs. thinkorswim – A Detailed Comparison
Discover our detailed comparison of MT4 and thinkorswim to help determine which is best for you. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, choosing the right platform can significantly impact your trading experience.
To make your research easier, we manually found key data for MT4 and thinkorswim across the internet and compiled it all in this article.
Overview of MT4
Meta Trader 4 (MT4) is a charting platform that is mostly used by Forex traders. You can also chart stocks and other assets depending on which broker you connect.
✓ Integrates with various brokers
✓ Comprehensive analytical tools
✓ Algo trading features
MT4 is Best For
MT4 is best for those who already have a broker tha is compatible with it. Otherwise, there are much better charting platforms like TradingView or TrendSpider.
Overview of thinkorswim
thinkorswim was founded by Tom Sosnoff in the late 90s, and is one of the most popular trading platforms today. thinkorswim allows you to use advanced charting tools, custom indicators, screeners, trade options, and more! thinkorswim itself is not a brokerage, but is compatible with Schwab and TD Ameritrade customers.
✓ Customizable charting tools
✓ Paper trading features
✓ Free for Schwab accounts
thinkorswim is Best For
thinkorswim is best for traders who already use Schwab or TD Ameritrade, and want an excellent trading platform for technical analysis, options trading, news, and more!
Key Characteristics of MT4 and thinkorswim
| Platform | Platform Type | Tradeable Assets | Charting Features | Data | Premium Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MT4 | Charting and Trading Software | Not a broker | Free charting platform | Depends on broker | Free, just connect a broker |
| thinkorswim | Trading Platform (Schwab) | Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Index Options, Futures, Futures Options, Bonds | Downloadable desktop platform and web app | Real-time data with funded account | No premium features |
Trading Features and Tools
| Platform | DRIP | Margin Trading | Insurance | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MT4 | Not a broker | Not a broker | Not a broker | Yes |
| thinkorswim | Yes, no fees | Yes | Not a broker | Yes |
Trading Costs and Commissions Compared
| Fee Type | MT4 | thinkorswim |
|---|---|---|
| Equity Commission | Not a broker | Free |
| Option Commission | Not a broker | $0.65 per contract |
| Futures Commission | Not a broker | $2.25 per contract |
| Futures Options Commission | Not a broker | $2.25 per contract |
| Option Exercise Fee | Not a broker | None |
MT4 vs thinkorswim – Bottom Line
Choosing between MT4 and thinkorswim depends on your specific trading needs, preferred trading tools, and the type of assets you’re interested in.
Both platforms offer distinct advantages, but by considering the detailed comparison above, you can select the one that aligns best with your trading strategy and goals.
For more detailed reviews and comparisons, continue exploring our other articles on brokerage platform comparisons.
What is the Overall Best Charting Software?
I have reviewed and used nearly every trading platform available, and I believe that TradingView is the best overall charting software available. Here are some reasons why:
- All of TradingView’s key features are free to use
- TradingView provides real-time data for free whenever possible
- You are not tied to a single broker and can use whichever you want while charting on TradingView
- You can track all markets on a single platform, including stocks, ETFs, crypto, forex, and futures.
- TradingView has an excellent economic calendar and various screeners
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- Advanced Charts
- Real-Time Data
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