If you're just starting out in online trading, you've probably come across the name MetaTrader 5 — or MT5. It's one of the most talked-about trading platforms in the world, and for good reason. But what exactly is it, and why does it matter to you as a beginner?
This guide breaks it all down in plain language.
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What Is MetaTrader 5 (MT5)?
MetaTrader 5 is a professional trading platform developed by MetaQuotes. It's used by millions of traders across the globe to buy and sell financial instruments — things like currencies (forex), stock indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
Think of it as the software you use to actually place trades, watch price charts, and manage your trading account. It's available on your desktop computer, in a web browser, and on your phone — so you can trade wherever you are.
At Skilling, MT5 is now fully integrated into the platform, which means you can access all of MT5's powerful tools directly through your Skilling account.
What Can You Do with MT5?
MT5 is packed with features. Here's what you'll find as a beginner:
1. Advanced Charts
MT5 gives you 21 different timeframes for reading price charts — from 1-minute snapshots all the way up to monthly views. It also comes with over 80 built-in technical indicators, which are tools that help you spot trends and make more informed trading decisions.
2. Multiple Order Types
MT5 supports 2 types of market orders and 6 different pending order types. In simple terms, this means you have more flexibility in how and when your trades get executed — whether you want to buy now, or set a trade to trigger when a price hits a specific level.
3. Trade Multiple Markets from One Account
With MT5 on Skilling, you can trade CFDs across more than 106 instruments, including:
- 47 forex pairs
- Metals (like gold and silver)
- Indices (like the SPX 500 or UK 100)
- Energies (like oil)
- Soft commodities
- 32 cryptocurrencies
All of this from a single account — no need to switch platforms or open multiple accounts.
4. Real-Time News and Economic Calendar
MT5 has a built-in economic calendar and live news feed. These keep you up to date with important financial events — like central bank announcements or employment data — without having to leave the platform.
5. Trade Anywhere, on Any Device
MT5 is available on Windows and Mac desktops, in your web browser (no download needed), and on iOS and Android mobile apps. You can also access it via Skilling's TradingView integration if you prefer charting there.
Is MT5 Difficult to Learn?
MT5 is designed to be accessible for all levels of experience. As a beginner, you don't need to use every feature right away. You can start simply — open a chart, watch how prices move, place your trade accordingly — and gradually explore more tools as your confidence grows.
Skilling's multilingual support team is also on hand to help you get started if you need guidance.
MT5 vs. Other Platforms
MT5 is widely considered the next generation of the MetaTrader platform family. Compared to its predecessor MT4, it offers more timeframes, more indicators, faster strategy testing, and access to a broader range of markets. For beginners, this means more tools to grow with as your skills develop.
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How to Access MT5 on Skilling
Getting started is straightforward:
- Log in to your Skilling account (or open one if you're new)
- Go to the platforms section in your client portal
- Open an MT5 account
- Download the platform or use the web version
- Start trading
MT5 is available free of charge to all Skilling clients — no extra fees for using the platform.
Final Thoughts
MetaTrader 5 is one of the most capable trading platforms available — and now it's available on Skilling. Whether you're placing your first trade or learning the ropes of technical analysis, MT5 gives you the tools to trade with confidence.
Ready to get started? Open your MT5 account on Skilling today.
