Forex Position Size Calculator
The most important calculator in trading — size every position so a stop-out costs exactly the percentage you chose.
Forex position size calculator
Enter your account balance, the percentage you are willing to risk, and your stop-loss distance in pips. The calculator returns the lot size that keeps your loss at exactly that percentage if the stop is hit — the foundation of every professional risk-management plan.
Position size formula
Lots = (Account balance × Risk %) ÷ (Stop loss in pips × Pip value per lot). Example: a $10,000 account risking 1% ($100) with a 30-pip stop on EUR/USD ($10 per pip per lot) → 100 ÷ (30 × 10) = 0.33 lots.
How much should you risk per trade?
| Risk per trade | Losses to lose 20% | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5% | ~44 in a row | Scalpers taking many trades; funded-account challenges |
| 1% | ~22 in a row | Most day and swing traders — the professional standard |
| 2% | ~11 in a row | Experienced traders with proven edge, few trades |
| 5%+ | ~4 in a row | Gambling; a normal losing streak ends the account |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good position size in forex?
One that risks 1–2% of your account if the stop loss is hit. The lot size then follows from your stop distance.
Does the stop distance change the lot size?
Yes — a wider stop means a smaller lot for the same money risked. This is why sizing must be recalculated for every trade.
Can I use this for gold?
Yes. Select XAU/USD; the calculator uses a $0.10 pip and 100-oz standard lots.