GatesFX is one of the few offshore brokers offering both MetaTrader 5 and TradeLocker — giving traders a genuine platform choice. But which one should you actually use? This comparison breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of each platform as they run on GatesFX, with practical advice on which suits different trading styles. For the full broker overview, see the GatesFX Review on EntryLab.
Platform Overview
MetaTrader 5 on GatesFX
MetaTrader 5 is the industry standard. On GatesFX, MT5 provides access to all available instruments with the broker’s 1:1000 maximum leverage. The platform supports Expert Advisors (EAs), custom indicators via MQL5, and automated trading strategies.
GatesFX’s MT5 offering is standard — no custom plugins or proprietary add-ons. You get the default MetaTrader experience with GatesFX’s server connection, spreads (from 1.0 pips), and execution.
TradeLocker on GatesFX
TradeLocker is the newer, browser-based alternative. It features TradingView-powered charting, a modern interface, and runs directly in any web browser without installation. On GatesFX, TradeLocker provides access to the same instruments and leverage as MT5.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | MT5 (GatesFX) | TradeLocker (GatesFX) |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Desktop download required | Browser-based (no install) |
| Charting | Built-in (decent) | TradingView engine (excellent) |
| Indicators | 38 built-in + MQL5 community | 100+ via TradingView |
| Automated Trading | ✅ EAs + MQL5 | ❌ Not supported |
| Custom Indicators | ✅ MQL5 marketplace | ❌ Limited |
| One-Click Trading | ✅ | ✅ |
| Mobile | Dedicated app | Responsive browser |
| DOM | ✅ | ✅ |
| Alerts | ✅ | ✅ |
| Multi-Monitor | ✅ (detachable charts) | Limited |
When to Use MetaTrader 5
Choose MT5 on GatesFX if:
You use Expert Advisors. This is the single biggest differentiator. If your strategy relies on automated trading bots, MT5 is your only option. TradeLocker has zero EA support.
You need custom MQL5 indicators. The MQL5 community provides thousands of custom indicators and scripts. If you use any of these, they only run on MetaTrader.
You prefer a desktop application. MT5’s desktop client offers detachable chart windows, multi-monitor support, and a familiar interface that many traders have used for years.
You run multiple strategies simultaneously. MT5’s strategy tester and multi-threaded backtesting capabilities make it the better choice for traders running or developing multiple automated strategies.
When to Use TradeLocker
Choose TradeLocker on GatesFX if:
You want better charting. TradeLocker’s TradingView-powered charts are objectively superior to MT5’s built-in charting. More indicators, better drawing tools, cleaner visuals, and community-created chart layouts.
You trade manually. For discretionary traders who analyse charts, set entries, and manage trades by hand, TradeLocker’s interface is faster and more intuitive than MT5.
You trade from multiple devices. TradeLocker runs in any browser — no installation means you can trade from your laptop, a library computer, a tablet, or your phone without downloading anything.
You are new to trading platforms. TradeLocker’s learning curve is gentler than MT5. The interface is modern and intuitive, with less of the legacy complexity that makes MetaTrader intimidating for beginners.
You want chart trading. Modifying stop-loss and take-profit by dragging directly on the chart is smoother on TradeLocker. MT5 supports this but the implementation feels dated in comparison.
Performance on GatesFX
Both platforms connect to the same GatesFX servers, so execution speed and spreads should be identical regardless of which platform you use. The 1:1000 leverage and 1.0 pip spread starting point apply across both.
In practice, some traders report marginally faster order fills on TradeLocker due to its lighter architecture, but this is anecdotal and likely varies by connection quality and market conditions.
Can You Use Both?
Yes. GatesFX allows you to have accounts on both platforms. Some traders use MT5 for automated strategies and TradeLocker for manual analysis and discretionary trades. This hybrid approach gives you the best of both worlds, though it requires managing two separate interfaces.
The Verdict
Use MT5 if your trading depends on automation, custom indicators, or backtesting. There is no workaround for EA support on TradeLocker.
Use TradeLocker if you trade manually and want the best possible charting and user experience. It is the more modern, more pleasant platform to use day-to-day.
Use both if you have different strategies that benefit from different tools. There is no cost to maintaining accounts on both platforms.
For most manual traders joining GatesFX in 2026, TradeLocker is the better default choice. Switch to MT5 only if you have a specific technical requirement that demands it.
For the complete broker overview, read the full GatesFX Review.
Disclaimer: GatesFX is an unregulated offshore broker. Trading with unregulated entities carries additional risk. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.