Adding the MACD indicator to your chart is simple—whether you’re using TradingView or MetaTrader. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up and customize MACD in both platforms so you can start analyzing momentum and generating trade signals right away.
✅ Adding MACD on TradingView
Step 1: Open a Chart
- Go to https://www.tradingview.com
- Search for your desired asset (e.g., AAPL, BTCUSD)
- Click on the chart to open the full-screen view
Step 2: Add the MACD Indicator
- Click on the “Indicators” icon at the top of the screen
- In the search bar, type “MACD”
- Select “MACD – Moving Average Convergence Divergence” from the built-in options
Step 3: Customize MACD Settings
- Hover over the MACD section and click the gear (⚙️) icon
- Default settings will be 12, 26, 9
- You can change the color of lines, adjust the style, or modify input values
Step 4: Use It for Analysis
- Analyze crossovers, histogram bars, and zero line position to interpret market momentum
✅ Adding MACD on MetaTrader (MT4/MT5)
Step 1: Open MetaTrader and a Chart
- Launch MetaTrader 4 or 5
- Open any chart for your preferred asset (e.g., EUR/USD)
Step 2: Insert the MACD Indicator
- In the Navigator panel, go to Indicators > Oscillators > MACD
- Alternatively, click Insert > Indicators > Oscillators > MACD
Step 3: Set Parameters
- A settings window will pop up. Enter:
- Fast EMA: 12
- Slow EMA: 26
- Signal SMA: 9
- Click OK to apply
Step 4: Customize Appearance (Optional)
- Right-click the MACD indicator > Properties
- Adjust color, thickness, and style for better visual clarity
(Insert screenshot of MACD displayed in MetaTrader)
Tips for MACD Setup
- Always ensure you’re applying MACD to the correct chart timeframe (e.g., 1H, 4H, Daily)
- Combine MACD with support/resistance zones or RSI for more accurate trading signals
- Save your chart layout in TradingView to avoid repeating setup
FAQs – Adding MACD to Your Charts
1. What’s the difference between MACD in TradingView vs MetaTrader?
TradingView offers more visual flexibility, while MetaTrader is widely used in forex trading.
2. Can I use custom MACD settings in both platforms?
Yes, both allow custom input values.
3. Does MACD look the same in all platforms?
The visual style may differ, but the core calculations are the same.
4. Can I add multiple MACDs with different settings?
Yes, especially in TradingView. You can overlay MACDs with different values.
5. Is MACD available on mobile apps?
Yes! Both TradingView and MetaTrader mobile apps support MACD indicators.
Conclusion
Whether you’re using TradingView or MetaTrader, adding MACD to your charts is quick and easy. With just a few clicks, you’ll unlock a powerful tool to track momentum, identify trends, and make informed trading decisions.
