How to add a second chart in TopstepX

TopstepX lets you open a second chart window by clicking the New Window button in the top toolbar, then selecting a different symbol or timeframe from the first chart. The second chart appears as a separate floating window that you can resize and position anywhere on your screen. Both charts update in real time, so you can compare price action across different instruments or watch the same stock at different time intervals side by side.

This feature works whether you are using TopstepX on Windows or Mac, and the setup takes about 30 seconds. You do not need to restart the platform or change any settings — the second window is ready to trade from when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Click New Window in the toolbar, then choose your symbol and timeframe to open a second chart that updates live alongside your first one.
  • You can resize and move the second window freely, or dock it next to your first chart if your monitor has the space.
  • Both charts stay synchronized with your account and watchlist, so changes in one reflect across the platform.
  • Closing a chart window does not affect your other open windows or your trading positions.

Step-by-step: Opening your second chart

Start with TopstepX already open and your first chart displayed. Look at the top toolbar — you will see buttons for various functions. Find and click the New Window button, which typically shows a small window icon or plus sign. A new blank chart window will open on top of your existing one.

In the new window, enter the stock symbol you want to watch in the symbol field at the top left. If you want to compare the same stock at a different timeframe, type the same symbol. If you want to watch a completely different stock, type that symbol instead. Then select your timeframe from the dropdown menu — common choices are 1-minute, 5-minute, 15-minute, hourly, or daily. The chart will populate with data when ready.

Drag the new window by its title bar to position it where you want it. You can move it to the side of your first chart, stack it below, or keep it floating in the center of your screen — whatever layout helps you see both charts at once.

Arranging multiple charts on your screen

If you have a single monitor, the best layout is usually to position one chart on the left half of the screen and the second on the right half. Drag each window to its position, then resize by dragging the edges until they fit side by side without overlapping. This gives you a clear view of both without constantly switching between windows.

On a larger monitor or with multiple monitors, you have more flexibility. You can keep charts floating and stacked, or spread them across your full screen space. Some traders put a 1-minute chart on one monitor and a 5-minute or daily chart on another, so they can spot short-term moves without losing sight of the bigger trend.

TopstepX remembers your window layout when you close and reopen the platform, so you do not have to rearrange every time you log in. If you want to reset to a single-chart view, straightforward close the extra windows.

Comparing different symbols side by side

Opening a second chart with a different symbol is useful when you want to see how two stocks move relative to each other, or when you are deciding which of two candidates to trade. For example, you might watch SPY (the S&P 500 ETF) on one chart and a specific stock on the other to see whether the stock is moving with the market or against it. If the stock is rising while SPY falls, that tells you something about the stock's individual strength.

You can also use a second chart to monitor a stock you already hold while you trade something else. Keep your position on one chart and your active trade on the other, so you can react quickly if either one moves sharply.

Using different timeframes on the same stock

Many traders open the same stock at two different timeframes — for example, a 5-minute chart for entry and exit signals, and a 15-minute or hourly chart to confirm the overall direction. The shorter timeframe shows you the precise moment to enter, while the longer timeframe shows you whether you are trading with or against the trend.

This approach reduces the number of false signals you take. If your 5-minute chart shows a buy setup but your hourly chart is in a downtrend, you might skip that trade or wait for a stronger setup. Both charts update simultaneously, so you see the relationship between timeframes in real time.

Closing and managing multiple windows

To close a chart window, click the X button in the top right corner of that window. Closing one window does not affect your other open charts, your watchlist, or any active positions. Your account balance and buying power remain visible in the main TopstepX interface regardless of how many chart windows you have open.

If you open many windows and want to start fresh, you can close them one at a time, or you can restart TopstepX entirely. The platform will remember your last layout and restore it the next time you log in, unless you manually close all the extra windows before exiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open more than two charts at once?

Yes. You can open as many chart windows as your computer's memory allows. Most traders find three to four charts manageable on a single monitor, but if you have multiple monitors or a very large screen, you can display more. Each additional window uses some system resources, so opening too many may slow down your platform.

Do both charts have to show the same timeframe?

No. Each chart window is independent. You can have one chart on a 1-minute timeframe and another on a daily timeframe, or any other combination. This is one of the main reasons traders open multiple windows — to compare different time intervals of the same stock.

What happens to my second chart if I close TopstepX?

When you close TopstepX, all your chart windows close. The next time you open TopstepX, it restores your previous layout automatically, including the symbols and timeframes you had open. If you want a different layout next time, close the extra windows before you exit the platform.

Can I trade from both charts at the same time?

Yes. Both charts are fully functional. You can place orders, set alerts, and manage positions from either window. Your account balance and buying power update across all open windows when ready, so you always see accurate information regardless of which chart you are using.

Does opening a second chart slow down my platform?

A second chart uses minimal additional resources on most modern computers. If you notice slowness, it is usually because you have many other programs running, not because of the extra chart. Close unused applications or restart TopstepX if performance becomes an issue.