Easy Tech TutsHow To Add Moving Averages in Tradingview, Best Moving Average Combo SMA vs EMA 2026
By Impran M N
Moving averages are one of the most common tools traders add to a TradingView chart, and understanding the difference between SMA and EMA can help you choose the right one for your strategy. This guide covers adding both indicators and customizing their appearance.
01Open the indicators panel
Click the indicators button at the top of your chart to search the list of available TradingView indicators.
02Add the Simple Moving Average
Search for SMA and add it to your chart, where it appears as a line showing the average of past periods for a smoother trend view.
03Add the Exponential Moving Average
Search for EMA and add it alongside the SMA, since it weights recent prices more heavily and reacts faster to price changes.
04Customize the SMA settings
Adjust the period, color, and line thickness of your SMA to make it easier to distinguish on the chart.
05Customize the EMA settings
Repeat the process for the EMA, choosing a contrasting color and thickness so both lines are easy to tell apart.
06Save your changes
Click OK after each customization to apply your settings to the chart.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between SMA and EMA?
SMA calculates a straightforward average of past prices for a smoother trend line, while EMA weights recent prices more heavily, making it more responsive to short-term changes.
Can I add both SMA and EMA to the same chart?
Yes, you can add both indicators at once and customize their colors to tell them apart easily.
Which moving average is better for short-term trading?
EMA tends to be more responsive to recent price changes, which many short-term traders prefer.
How do I change the moving average period?
You can adjust the period in the indicator's settings after adding it to your chart.
Can I customize the color of each moving average?
Yes, both SMA and EMA settings let you choose a color and line thickness for better visibility.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
