Learn step-by-step how to add and customize the MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) indicator on TradingView charts for both desktop and mobile devices.
Steps to Display MACD (Desktop)
Compatible Devices: PC
- Click "Indicators" in the top menu.
- Type "macd" in the search bar.
- Select "Moving Average Convergence Divergence."
- Close the panel by clicking the "×" icon.
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Steps to Display MACD (Mobile)
Compatible Devices: Smartphone
- Tap the "＋" icon in the bottom menu.
- Select "Indicators."
- Search for "macd."
- Tap "Moving Average Convergence Divergence."
- Close the panel by tapping "×."
Configuring MACD Settings
Compatible Devices: PC & Mobile
Double-click (or double-tap) the MACD indicator to open settings. Alternatively:
- PC: Hover over the "MACD" label and click the gear icon.
- Mobile: Tap "MACD" once, then tap the gear icon.
Parameters (Inputs)
Timeframe
Display MACD for a different timeframe than your chart. For beginners, leave this at default settings.
Common Parameter Settings
The standard MACD configuration is:
| Fast Length | Slow Length | Signal |
|------------|------------|--------|
| 12 | 26 | 9 |
- Fast Length: Short-term moving average period.
- Slow Length: Long-term moving average period.
- Source: Typically set to "Close" price.
- Signal Smoothing: Adjusts the signal line period.
- Oscillator MA Type: Choose between EMA (default) or SMA.
- Signal MA Type: EMA is recommended.
Color Settings
Customize MACD histogram and line colors for better visibility.
Style
- Adjust line thickness, histogram display, and precision (decimal places).
- Toggle price scale labels and status line values.
Visibility
Select which timeframes display the MACD indicator.
FAQ
1. What’s the difference between MACD and Signal Line?
The MACD line reflects the difference between fast and slow moving averages, while the Signal Line is its smoothed average (typically 9 periods).
2. Why use EMA instead of SMA for MACD?
EMA prioritizes recent price data, making it more responsive to trend changes—ideal for MACD’s momentum analysis.
3. Can I hide MACD values on the price scale?
Yes. Disable "Labels on price scale" in settings or uncheck "Indicator Labels" in Chart Settings > Scale.
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4. How do I reset MACD to default settings?
Click "Defaults" in the MACD settings panel.
5. Does MACD work for all asset types?
Yes, but it’s most effective for trending markets (stocks, forex). Range-bound assets may generate false signals.
6. Can I use MACD on multiple timeframes simultaneously?
Yes, via the "Timeframe" parameter or by adding separate MACD indicators for each timeframe.