MT4 to MT5 migration has two sides. For brokers, it means setting up MT5 groups, symbols and conditions that mirror MT4, opening MT5 accounts for clients with simple transfers, moving IBs and plugins, and running both platforms in parallel until MT4 is retired. For traders and developers, it means converting MQL4 Expert Advisors and indicators to MQL5, which has a different order and position model, different indicator access and different event handling, then verifying the converted code against the original.
- Brokers migrate by mirroring MT4 conditions on MT5 and running both platforms in parallel for a period.
- Clients move with new MT5 accounts and internal transfers handled by the CRM.
- MQL4 code does not run on MT5; it must be converted to MQL5.
- Key code differences: order/position/deal model, indicator handles and event functions.
- Converted EAs should be verified side by side against the original results.
Looking for MT4 to MT5 migration support? Broker migrations and MQL4 to MQL5 conversions.
MT5 is now the default platform for new brokers (see white label MT4 vs MT5), and many MT4 brokers and traders are moving. This guide covers both the business migration and the code conversion.
Broker migration plan
- Mirror conditions: create MT5 groups, symbols, swaps and margin settings that match MT4.
- Connect infrastructure: liquidity bridge, CRM, plugins and reporting on MT5.
- Move IBs: replicate partner structures and commissions.
- Open MT5 accounts: let clients open MT5 accounts from the trader room and transfer funds internally.
- Support EA users: offer conversion help or MT5 versions of popular tools.
- Run in parallel: keep MT4 running for an agreed period, then retire it with notice.
Converting MQL4 to MQL5
| Area | MQL4 | MQL5 |
|---|---|---|
| Trading model | Orders | Orders, positions and deals; hedging or netting accounts |
| Trade functions | OrderSend, OrderClose, OrderSelect | Trade requests (MqlTradeRequest) or the CTrade class |
| Indicators | Direct values, e.g. iMA(...) returns a number | Create a handle, then copy values with CopyBuffer |
| Event handlers | init, start, deinit (older style) | OnInit, OnTick, OnDeinit, OnTrade and more |
| Timeframes | 9 | 21 |
Verifying a converted EA
- Run the MT4 original and the MT5 version on the same data and compare trades.
- Check differences caused by tick data, spreads and execution rather than code.
- Forward-test both on demo accounts before using the MT5 version live.
We provide broker migrations and MQL4 to MQL5 conversions through our MQL development services and MT5 white label.
MetaTrader, MT4 and MT5 are trademarks of MetaQuotes Ltd. Trading involves risk; converted software is tested to specification but trading results are not guaranteed.