Learning how to add second chart to TopstepX is one of the most practical skills you can develop as a trader using this platform. Whether you’re monitoring multiple timeframes, comparing different instruments, or tracking correlated markets, having a second chart window open transforms your trading workflow from basic to professional-grade. This guide walks you through every step, from the initial setup to advanced multi-chart configurations that’ll have you analyzing markets like a seasoned pro.
Table of Contents
Why Multiple Charts Matter
Before diving into the mechanics, let’s talk about why you’d want a second chart in the first place. Running multiple charts simultaneously lets you compare price action across different timeframes without constantly switching views. You might watch a 5-minute chart for entry signals while keeping a 15-minute chart visible for context. Or you could monitor ES (S&P 500 futures) alongside NQ (Nasdaq futures) to spot correlation breakdowns that signal trading opportunities.
Professional traders don’t work with single charts. They layer information, compare instruments, and validate signals across multiple data streams. TopstepX recognizes this need, and the platform makes adding secondary charts straightforward once you know where to look.
Accessing TopstepX Chart Tools
Start by opening your TopstepX trading platform. You’ll see your main chart window displayed prominently. Look at the top-right corner of your chart panel—you’ll find a series of icons and buttons. The key to unlocking multiple charts lies in the workspace controls. Click on the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines or dots) in your chart’s header bar. This dropdown reveals your charting options and layout controls.
If you’re using the web-based version of TopstepX, the interface might differ slightly from the desktop application, but the fundamental principle remains the same: you’re accessing layout or workspace settings through the chart header controls. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with these controls before proceeding.
Adding Your Second Chart
Here’s where the magic happens. Once you’ve located your chart menu, look for an option labeled “New Chart,” “Add Chart,” or “Split Window.” Click this option. TopstepX will either open a new chart window or split your existing workspace to accommodate a second chart panel. The exact behavior depends on your platform version and current layout settings.
When your second chart appears, it typically defaults to displaying the same instrument as your first chart. You’ll immediately want to change this. Click on the symbol field in your new chart and enter the instrument you want to monitor. If you’re tracking a different timeframe of the same instrument, leave the symbol the same but adjust the timeframe settings (we’ll cover that next).
The second chart inherits some default settings from your main chart, including drawing tools and study indicators. You can customize these independently, which is one of the biggest advantages of the multi-chart setup.
Configuring Chart Settings
Now that your second chart is live, it’s time to configure it for your specific trading needs. Each chart operates independently, meaning you can set different timeframes, apply different indicators, and adjust visual settings without affecting your primary chart.
Start with timeframe selection. Click on the timeframe button (usually showing “5m,” “15m,” “1h,” etc.) and select your desired interval. Common multi-chart configurations include a 5-minute chart paired with a 15-minute chart for scalpers, or a 1-hour chart paired with a 4-hour chart for swing traders. The combination depends entirely on your trading style and strategy.
Next, add indicators if needed. Right-click on your second chart and select “Add Indicator” or look for a plus icon in the studies panel. Popular additions include moving averages for trend confirmation, RSI for momentum, or MACD for divergence hunting. Apply only the indicators that serve your decision-making process—cluttered charts breed poor decisions.
Arranging Your Workspace
With both charts active and configured, you’ll want to arrange them for optimal visibility. TopstepX offers several layout options. The most common setup is a side-by-side arrangement (one chart on the left, one on the right) or a stacked arrangement (one above the other). Your monitor size and personal preference determine which works best.
To adjust the layout, look for workspace or layout buttons in your main menu. You might see options like “2-Column Layout,” “Horizontal Split,” or “Vertical Split.” Experiment with these until you find a configuration that lets you see both charts clearly without excessive scrolling or resizing.
Resize individual chart panels by dragging the divider between them. If you’re watching a 5-minute chart for immediate entry signals, you might make that panel larger than your 15-minute context chart. Conversely, if you’re using the second chart as your primary analysis tool, give it more real estate on your screen.
Syncing Timeframes Across Charts
Here’s a pro tip that separates casual traders from serious ones: understand when to sync and when to keep charts independent. TopstepX allows you to link charts so they scroll and zoom together, or keep them completely independent. This setting matters more than you’d think.
If you’re comparing the same instrument across different timeframes, you’ll usually want synchronized scrolling. This means when you scroll back in time on your 5-minute chart, your 15-minute chart scrolls to the same timestamp. This alignment makes pattern comparison intuitive and prevents confusion.
However, if you’re watching two completely different instruments (like ES and NQ), you might prefer independent scrolling. Each instrument has its own price history and patterns, and forcing them to scroll together can create misleading visual comparisons.
Access sync settings through your workspace menu. Look for “Link Charts,” “Synchronize,” or “Chart Linking” options. Most platforms let you toggle this per chart pair, giving you maximum flexibility.
Advanced Multi-Chart Strategies
Once you’ve mastered the basic two-chart setup, consider these advanced configurations. Some traders run three or four charts simultaneously—perhaps a 1-minute entry chart, a 5-minute confirmation chart, a 15-minute context chart, and a separate instrument for correlation analysis. This requires significant screen real estate (often a multi-monitor setup), but it provides comprehensive market perspective.
Another advanced technique involves using one chart for price action and another exclusively for volume analysis or order flow data. This separation lets you focus on different analytical dimensions without visual clutter. Your volume chart might display volume bars and volume profile, while your price chart shows candlesticks and moving averages.
You can also create specialized chart pairs for specific strategies. Mean reversion traders might pair a chart showing price with another showing an overbought/oversold indicator. Trend traders might compare fast and slow moving average crossovers across timeframes. The flexibility of multi-chart setups lets you build a workspace tailored to your exact methodology.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes charts don’t behave as expected. If your second chart won’t appear, try refreshing your browser (web version) or restarting the platform (desktop version). Occasionally, layout settings get corrupted, and a fresh start resolves the issue immediately.
If both charts are displaying the same instrument and you can’t change the symbol on the second chart, you might need to “unlink” them first. Check your chart linking settings and disable synchronization if it’s preventing independent symbol selection.
Charts running slowly? Close unnecessary indicators and reduce the amount of historical data displayed. If you’re scrolling back years of price history, your system has to render thousands of candlesticks. Limit your view to the relevant timeframe for your analysis—usually the past few weeks or months.
Data discrepancies between charts? Ensure both are pulling from the same data feed and that your internet connection is stable. Occasionally, one chart might lag slightly behind the other during volatile market conditions. This is usually temporary and resolves as data catches up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add more than two charts to TopstepX?
Yes, absolutely. TopstepX supports multiple chart windows beyond just two. You can create three, four, or more chart panels depending on your monitor setup and system resources. However, more charts mean more data processing, so performance may degrade with excessive numbers. Most traders find two to four charts optimal.
Do I need separate subscriptions for multiple charts?
No. Your TopstepX subscription covers all charting features and multiple charts simultaneously. You’re not charged per chart window. The subscription model doesn’t limit the number of charts you can open at once.
Can I save my multi-chart layout?
Most versions of TopstepX allow you to save workspace layouts. Once you’ve arranged your charts exactly how you want them, look for a “Save Layout,” “Save Workspace,” or “Save Configuration” option in your settings. This lets you restore your setup instantly when you log back in.
What’s the best chart combination for day trading?
This depends on your specific strategy, but a common setup is a 5-minute chart for entries and exits paired with a 15-minute chart for trend confirmation. Some traders prefer 1-minute and 5-minute combinations for ultra-fast trading. Experiment with different timeframe pairs to find what matches your decision-making speed and risk tolerance.
How do I keep charts from scrolling together?
Disable chart linking or synchronization in your workspace settings. Once unlinked, each chart scrolls independently, letting you view different time periods simultaneously. This is useful when comparing different instruments that don’t move in perfect sync.
Can I apply different indicators to each chart?
Completely. Each chart operates independently regarding indicators, studies, and visual settings. Add whatever indicators you need to each chart without affecting the others. This independence is one of the biggest advantages of multi-chart trading.
Wrapping Up Your Multi-Chart Setup
Adding a second chart to TopstepX transforms your trading platform from a basic observation tool into a comprehensive analysis suite. You’ve now got the knowledge to set up multiple charts, configure them for your specific needs, and arrange them for maximum effectiveness. The technical steps are straightforward—finding the chart menu, clicking “Add Chart,” and configuring your new panel takes just minutes.
The real skill comes in knowing what to put on each chart and how to interpret the combined information. Spend time experimenting with different configurations. Try comparing different timeframes, different instruments, and different indicator combinations. Pay attention to which setups actually improve your trading decisions versus which ones just add visual noise.
Remember that having more information isn’t always better. Two well-configured charts that you understand deeply will serve you better than four charts you’re constantly confused by. Start simple, master the basics, then gradually add complexity as your comfort level increases. Your trading results will thank you for this methodical approach.
