MT4, MT5 or cTrader: what actually differs for a scalper

[Shadow Trader]

Platform choice affects execution more than most traders assume.

MT4 is old, stable and widely supported, with a huge library of indicators and expert advisors. It uses a hedging model only, has limited order types, and its backtester relies on synthetic ticks, which flatters scalping systems.

MT5 adds more order types, a better backtester with real tick support, and both netting and hedging account modes depending on the broker. Fewer brokers offer it for retail forex, and some legacy tools haven't been ported.

cTrader is popular among scalpers for its clean interface, level 2 pricing on some brokers, server-side stops and fast execution. Its automation language differs from MetaTrader's, so existing bots won't move across.

Beyond features, the broker's server setup matters. The same platform on two brokers can behave differently because of how each routes orders.

The best test is a demo on each platform with the same broker, if offered, comparing fill speed and behaviour on a few dozen trades.

Which platform is in use, and was it chosen for its features or for what the broker offered first?