How to get 100% tick data for free
Realistic backtests need realistic data. The free QuantDataManager tool by StrategyQuant lets you download high-quality historical tick data and import it straight into MetaTrader 5
Download QuantDataManager
A free desktop tool from StrategyQuant that downloads high-quality historical tick data from multiple sources and exports it in a format MetaTrader 5 can use.
Visit strategyquant.comWatch the tutorial
A concise walkthrough showing exactly how to download the tick data and import it into MetaTrader 5. Easy to follow.
Watch on YouTubeVideo tutorial
Credit: tutorial produced directly by StrategyQuant.
Quick answers
Why bother with real tick data?
MetaTrader 5's built-in history is often incomplete or smoothed, especially on lower timeframes. Backtesting with 100% real tick data gives you a much more honest picture of how an Expert Advisor would have behaved in live market conditions — including spread, slippage and the noise between candles.
What is a "tick"?
Every change in the quoted price. A single minute can contain hundreds of ticks — the more your backtest sees, the closer it is to live reality.
Why 100% specifically?
MT5's default history skips and smooths ticks to save space. 100% data is the only way to see how the EA would actually have executed under real market conditions.
How big are the files?
Typically 100 MB to several GB per symbol, depending on years and granularity. Make sure you have free disk space before downloading multi-year datasets.
Does this slow my live MT5 down?
No. The downloaded data only loads inside the Strategy Tester during a backtest. Live trading is unaffected.
Is QuantDataManager really free?
Yes. The free tier covers downloading and exporting tick data to MetaTrader 5. Paid tiers add automation features that are not needed for this guide.