October 06, 2025
4 mins read
If you're diving into technical analysis, you've probably come across patterns like triangles and pennants on candlestick charts. At first glance, they might seem similar—but don’t let that fool you. Understanding the difference between symmetrical triangles and pennant patterns can give you an advantage when trying to time your trades.
These chart formations may look alike, but they act differently. Each one signals a different price movement. Let’s break down symmetrical triangles vs. pennant patterns so you can spot the differences and use these indicators with more confidence.
A symmetrical triangle pattern shows a phase where the market is undecided. During this time, the price forms a series of lower highs and higher lows. These points connect to create two trendlines that converge to form a triangle.
This shape signals that a breakout is likely—either upward or downward. A breakout above the upper trendline often signals a bullish trend. A drop below the lower line points to a bearish trend.
The price target after a breakout is often based on the widest part of the triangle. That range is applied to the breakout point.
You’ll find this pattern across many asset types and chart timeframes. While it's considered a reliable tool, many traders also use volume and indicators to confirm it. Learning to identify triangle patterns early helps when you read a candlestick chart and plan trades based on expected breakouts.
A pennant pattern is a short-term continuation pattern. It follows a strong price move called the flagpole. After this move, the price pauses and forms a pennant—a small, symmetrical triangle of converging lines. The pattern ends with another breakout in the same direction as the original price move.
What makes pennants different from triangles is the flagpole. Without this initial spike or drop, it's not a true pennant. Also, during the pennant's formation, volume typically drops. But when the breakout happens, volume picks up again.
Pennants usually last from one to three weeks. They are often used by traders to spot continuation signals in a trending market. Recognising a pennant pattern while learning to read a candlestick chart is a valuable skill for any active trader.
At first glance, symmetrical triangle patterns and pennant patterns can appear quite similar. Both show price consolidating between converging trendlines and are continuation patterns. However, their formation, timing, and volume patterns are different.
Recognising the difference between symmetrical triangles and pennant patterns helps you better read potential breakouts and choose the right strategy. Below is a breakdown of how these two patterns compare:
Feature | Symmetrical Triangle Pattern | Pennant Pattern |
Presence of Flagpole | No flagpole. The pattern forms through gradual price consolidation. | Begins with a sharp price move—called the flagpole—before the pattern forms. |
Duration | Often takes weeks or months to fully form. | Short-term pattern, usually lasting 1 to 4 weeks. |
Breakout Timing | Breakout usually occurs before reaching the apex, typically midway through the pattern. | Breakout happens near or right at the point where the trendlines meet. |
Volume Pattern | Volume may taper off during formation but varies at breakout. | High volume in the flagpole, low during consolidation, high again at breakout. |
Now that you’ve seen how symmetrical triangles vs. pennant patterns compare, it’s easier to know what to look for on a chart. It’s not just about spotting shapes—it's about knowing what they say about the market.
Pennants usually show up after a sharp move and signal quick continuation. Triangles, on the other hand, take more time to form and show a build-up before a breakout. Recognising these triangle patterns early can help you prepare for the move. The next time you're analysing a chart, see if you can spot one of these patterns forming.
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A pennant pattern may indicate a bullish or bearish move,based on the trend that came before it. If the price surged before the pattern formed, it often continues upward. If the price dropped first, the breakout usually continues downward.
A symmetrical triangle has both rising lows and falling highs, forming a point in the middle. An ascending triangle has a flat top and a rising bottom, often seen as a signal for a potential bullish breakout.
A symmetrical triangle is considered neutral at first. It only becomes bearish or bullish based on which direction the breakout happens—above the upper trendline or below the lower one.
Look for a price pattern where each high is lower than the last and each low is higher than the one before. This creates two trendlines that converge. The pattern typically forms during a pause in price movement.
A breakout from a symmetrical triangle usually means that the period of consolidation is over. The price is expected to move in the direction of the breakout with strong momentum.
A symmetrical triangle can last from a few weeks to several months. The length often depends on the timeframe of the chart you're analysing. Longer triangles are more common in higher timeframes.
Yes, symmetrical triangles can fail. A false breakout may occur if the price briefly moves beyond the trendline but then reverses. Traders often use volume and other tools to confirm the breakout's strength.
During triangle formation, volume usually declines. A strong breakout is often confirmed when volume rises sharply as the price moves out of the pattern. This signals higher confidence in the breakout direction.
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