Double Top Complete Guide

reversalbearish20 bars

What is Double Top?

Le Double Sommet est une figure de retournement à biais baissier. Il nécessite au moins 20 barres pour se former. Cette figure est largement reconnue en analyse technique et peut être observée sur tous les marchés et toutes les unités de temps.

Double Top pattern illustration

Identification Rules

  1. Prior Uptrend: The pattern must be preceded by a clear and established uptrend, indicating that buyers were previously in control.
  2. Deux Pics : Identifier deux pics de prix distincts qui atteignent approximativement le même niveau de prix. Idéalement, le second pic ne devrait pas dépasser significativement le premier.
  3. Intermediate Trough (Neckline): A clear pullback forming a trough must occur between the two peaks. This low point establishes the neckline.
  4. Breakdown Confirmation: The pattern is confirmed when the price decisively breaks and closes below the neckline established by the intermediate trough. This breakdown should ideally be accompanied by increased volume.

References

  • Thomas N. Bulkowski (2005). Encyclopedia of Chart Patterns.
  • Steve Nison (2001). Japanese Candlestick Charting Techniques.

FAQ

How do you calculate a price target for a Double Top pattern?

A common method for estimating a price target is to measure the vertical distance from the neckline to the highest peak of the pattern. This measured distance is then projected downwards from the point where the price breaks below the neckline. For example, if the distance from the neckline to the peak is $10, and the neckline breaks at $50, the target would be $40.

What is the typical reliability and performance of a Double Top?

According to Thomas Bulkowski's research, the Double Top is a relatively reliable bearish reversal pattern. He found an average decline of approximately 19% after a confirmed breakdown. The pattern's failure rate, where the price reverses back above the neckline after a breakdown, is around 13%. Its performance rank among bearish reversal patterns is quite good, often placing it in the top half for post-breakdown declines.

What role does volume play in confirming a Double Top?

Volume is a critical indicator for the Double Top. Ideally, the first peak should form on high or increasing volume, reflecting strong buying interest. The rally to the second peak should occur on noticeably lower volume, indicating a weakening of buying pressure and a lack of conviction. Finally, the decisive breakdown below the neckline should be accompanied by a significant surge in volume, confirming strong selling pressure and the pattern's validity.

Quelle est la différence entre un Double Top et un Triple Top ?

The primary difference lies in the number of peaks. A Double Top features two distinct peaks at roughly the same price level, signaling a reversal. A Triple Top, as its name suggests, has three distinct peaks at approximately the same price level, separated by two troughs. Both are bearish reversal patterns, but a Triple Top is generally considered a stronger and more reliable reversal signal due to the repeated failure of buyers to push prices higher.

Are there any common variations or nuances to consider with Double Tops?

Yes, variations exist. The two peaks don't have to be at the exact same price; a slight tilt or difference of a few percentage points is acceptable, as long as the overall 'M' shape is clear. Sometimes, the second peak might be slightly lower than the first, indicating even weaker buying power. Also, the neckline doesn't have to be perfectly horizontal; it can be slightly sloped. The most crucial aspect remains the decisive breakdown below the established support level (neckline) on increased volume.

More Analysis

Reviewed by KlineVision Research Team, CFA Charterholder, 10+ years quantitative research· 23 avr. 2026

Parts of this page (FAQ, introductions) are AI-assisted. Core data and statistics are algorithmically computed. All pattern definitions are human-reviewed.

Data source: EODHD · Last updated: 23 avr. 2026

Avertissement : Cette page est basée sur des données de marché publiques et une analyse technique algorithmique. Elle ne constitue pas un conseil en investissement.

Data source: EODHD · © 2026 KlineVision AI