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Quick picks
TradingView
Bar replay plus the Pine Script strategy tester for automated tests on most markets.
FX Replay
Browser-based replay focused on simulated trading sessions and prop firm practice.
Backtesting tells you whether a strategy had an edge in the past — before you risk money finding out in the present. There are two main types of tool.
Editor’s note
Product listings are starter content. Verify current features and pricing.
Manual vs automated backtesting
| Manual (bar replay) | Automated (strategy tester) | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | You step through history and trade by hand | Code defines rules; software tests them |
| Best for | Discretionary strategies like ICT or supply & demand | Rule-based systems with exact conditions |
| Speed | Slow | Very fast |
| Skill required | Chart reading | Basic programming |
How to run a backtest you can trust
- Write exact rules. Entry, stop, target, filters and time of day.
- Use enough data. Include trending, ranging and high-volatility periods.
- Include costs. Add spread, commission and slippage to every trade.
- Split your data. Develop on one period; validate on another you haven’t seen.
- Measure the right things. Win rate, average R, expectancy, maximum drawdown and the longest losing streak.
Then stress-test the results: use the drawdown calculator to see what recovery your worst drawdown would require, and log forward-test trades in a trading journal.
Frequently asked questions
How many trades do I need in a backtest?
What is curve fitting?
Risk warning: Backtested results are hypothetical and do not guarantee future performance. Nothing on this site is investment advice.