Web Trader runs MetaTrader in a browser with nothing to install, and the installed desktop platform gives the full feature set. Both connect to the same account, so a position opened in one appears immediately in the other. The practical question is not which is better but which suits the machine you are on: a browser for a borrowed or locked-down computer, the desktop platform when you need templates, automation or many charts at once.
Key takeaways
- One account, one set of positions; only the interface differs.
- Web Trader needs no installation and works on machines where software cannot be installed.
- The desktop platform supports templates, profiles, custom indicators and automated tools.
- Trailing stops on desktop run in the terminal; a browser tab has the same limitation if it is closed.
- The mobile app is a third option for monitoring and simple orders.
| Web Trader | Browser · no installation · core trading and charting |
|---|---|
| MetaTrader 5 desktop | Installed · full features · custom tools |
| Mobile app | Monitoring, orders, alerts |
| Account | The same on all three |
| Best for | Web: convenience · Desktop: setup and depth |
Side by side
| Feature | Web Trader | MetaTrader 5 desktop |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | None | Required |
| Charting and indicators | Built-in set | Built-in set plus custom indicators |
| Templates and profiles | Limited | Yes |
| Automated trading | No | Where permitted |
| Depth of market | Desktop platform only | Yes, where provided |
| Multiple chart layouts | Limited | Yes |
| Works on locked-down computers | Yes | No |
| Order types | Full set | Full set |
When a browser is enough
If you place a handful of trades a week, watch two or three symbols and use the standard indicators, Web Trader does everything you need. It is also the answer on a work computer where installations are blocked, on a borrowed machine, or on an operating system where the installed platform is awkward; see how to install MetaTrader 5 for the desktop routes.
When the desktop platform is worth it
| Need | Why the desktop platform |
|---|---|
| A saved chart layout | Templates and profiles reopen the same setup every time; see indicators and timeframes on MT5 |
| Custom indicators | They are installed into the terminal’s data folder |
| Trailing stops that keep updating | They run in the terminal; see how to use a trailing stop on MT5 |
| Many charts at once | Multiple windows and profiles |
| Detailed history work | Reports and exports; see how to read your MT5 trade history |
Using them together
Most traders use more than one. A common pattern is the desktop platform for analysis and order placement, the mobile app for monitoring, and Web Trader when away from the usual computer. Because it is one account, a stop-loss set on the desktop is visible on the phone, and a position closed in the browser disappears everywhere. The only thing that does not travel is anything that runs locally, such as a desktop trailing stop or an automated tool.
Where to start
Open a demo account and try both for a week before deciding: how to open a demo account. Whichever you use, read the contract specification of your symbols and remember the differences described in demo vs live accounts.
Common mistakes to avoid
Assuming local features work everywhere. Trailing stops and automated tools run on the machine, not on the server.
Leaving a browser session open on a shared computer. Log out rather than closing the tab.
Duplicating orders. Placing the same trade on two devices creates two positions in a hedging account.
Relying on browser notifications. The mobile app is more reliable for alerts.
Risk warning. Trading CFDs carries a high level of risk since leverage can work both to your advantage and disadvantage. As a result, the products offered on this website may not be suitable for all investors because of the risk of losing all of your invested capital. You should never invest money that you cannot afford to lose, and never trade with borrowed money.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between MetaTrader 5 and Web Trader?
Web Trader is MetaTrader running in a browser with nothing to install; the desktop platform is installed software with the full feature set, including templates, custom indicators and automated tools. Both use the same account and show the same positions.
Can I trade without downloading anything?
Yes. Web Trader runs in a browser and supports charting and order placement, which is enough for most manual trading. The installed platform adds saved layouts, custom indicators and automation.
Do Web Trader and the desktop platform share the same account?
Yes. They connect to the same trading account, so positions, orders, stop-losses and history are identical wherever you log in.
Does the mobile app do everything the desktop does?
No. The mobile app is built for monitoring, placing and managing orders and receiving alerts. Saved layouts, custom indicators and automated tools belong to the desktop platform.
Which should a beginner use?
Either, but start on a demo account. Web Trader is quickest to try; the desktop platform is worth installing once you want saved chart layouts and a detailed history view.
Related reading
Moving over from MetaTrader 4
If your current routine depends on MT4 indicators or expert advisors, find out what has to be rewritten before settling on an interface; MT4 vs MT5 key differences sets out why MQL4 tools do not carry across.
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