Backtesting

Write a strategy in Pine Script and backtest it on any TradingView chart, with bar-by-bar results and a large open library of community scripts. The lowest-friction way to test a simple rule-based idea; beware of lookahead and repainting.

Cloud algorithmic-trading platform built on the open-source LEAN engine, with free historical data for equities, options, futures, forex and crypto, Python/C# research notebooks and live deployment to brokers. Free tier for research and backtests.

Mature open-source Python backtesting framework with broker integrations and a large user base. No longer actively developed but stable and well documented; a common first framework for DIY quants.

Lightweight open-source Python library for backtesting single-instrument strategies with interactive charts and parameter optimisation. Simpler than Backtrader; good for testing an indicator idea in an afternoon.

Fast Windows charting and backtesting software with its own formula language, portfolio-level backtests and walk-forward optimisation, sold as a one-time licence. A long-time favourite of systematic stock and ETF traders.

Desktop forex simulator that replays historical data so you can practise discretionary trading and test manual strategies bar by bar. One-time licence; useful for building screen time without risking money.

Built-in multi-currency backtester and optimiser for MetaTrader 5 expert advisors, free with the platform. The standard tool for testing MQL5 robots; watch tick-data quality and spread assumptions.

Web tools for backtesting asset-allocation and factor portfolios, tactical models and Monte Carlo simulations on monthly data. Aimed at investors and tactical traders rather than intraday; a free tier covers the basics.

Options-specific backtester with intraday data for index and equity options, letting you test entry, exit and delta rules for spreads, iron condors and 0DTE strategies. Subscription; the most used options backtester among retail traders.

Browser-based market replay and manual backtesting for forex, futures and crypto with TradingView-style charts and a built-in journal. Subscription; a modern alternative to desktop simulators.