How this calculator works — Forex Profit & Loss Calculator
Trading profit is just pip math at position size. For a long trade:
P/L = Pips × pip value per lot × lots
Example: 80 pips × $10 × 0.50 lots = +$400
Flip the direction and the same formula flips sign: a short that goes your way counts (Entry − Exit). A negative result is a loss — the calculator shows it in red, exactly as your account would.
Worked example — short GBPUSD
You sell GBPUSD at 1.2700 and cover at 1.2655 on 0.30 lots. That's 45 pips × $10 × 0.30 = +$135. Now the honest part: your raw-spread account charged 0.2 pips of spread ($6) and $2.10 round-turn commission — net ≈ +$126.90. Always judge strategies on net figures.
Where costs hide
| Cost | Typical (per standard lot) | When it bites |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | 0.1–1.5 pips depending on broker/pair | Every trade, at entry |
| Commission | ~$6–7 round-turn on raw-spread accounts | Every trade |
| Swap (rollover) | Varies by pair & direction — see our swap guide | Positions held past 5pm ET |
CFDs and Forex are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Ensure you understand how these products work before trading. See our risk disclaimer.
Frequently asked questions — Forex Profit & Loss Calculator
How do I calculate forex profit?
Pips captured × pip value × lots. This calculator automates it for majors, JPY pairs and gold; the Pip Value Calculator gives you the per-pip multiplier for any size.
Is the result shown net of costs?
No — it's gross P/L from price movement. Subtract your broker's spread and commission (usually shown in MT5's History tab) for the true net figure.
Why does my platform's number differ slightly?
Platforms compute P/L tick-by-tick in your account currency using live conversion rates; approximations here (JPY, CAD, CHF pairs) can drift a fraction of a percent. Platform values are binding.
What's a good profit target in pips?
Whatever your strategy's R:R says. If you risk 25 pips, a 50–75 pip target (1:2–1:3) is the professional zone — check any setup with the Risk/Reward Calculator.