Head-to-Head Comparison

FTMO vs Aqua Funded

An honest, data-driven comparison to help you pick the right prop firm. We compare drawdown rules, challenge costs, profit splits, trading conditions, and more — no bias, just facts.

FTMO

4.8

The most established and trusted prop trading firm with rigorous but fair evaluation process. Known for excellent support and reliable payouts.

Visit FTMO

Aqua Funded

4.3

Emerging prop firm offering up to 100% profit splits and refundable challenge fees. Supports 1-step, 2-step, and 3-step evaluations with accounts up to $400K.

Visit Aqua Funded

Side-by-Side Comparison: FTMO vs Aqua Funded

Metric

FTMO

Aqua Funded

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

10%

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

90/10 → 100%

Challenge Cost

$155 - $1,080

$45 - $1,899

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

1:100

Instruments

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Stocks

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto

Account Sizes

$10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K

$5K, $10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K, $400K

Scaling

Scale up to $2M after 4 months of profitable trading

Account scaling based on consistent profitability milestones

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Rating

4.8/5

4.3/5

The Verdict: FTMO vs Aqua Funded

The best choice depends on your trading style, risk tolerance, and goals. Here's our breakdown by trader profile:

Best for Beginners

FTMO

FTMO offers more forgiving drawdown rules, making it easier for newer traders to get started.

Best for Aggressive Traders

FTMO

FTMO provides 10% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

FTMO

FTMO offers better scaling potential: Scale up to $2M after 4 months of profitable trading.

Best for Overall Value

FTMO

FTMO earns 4.8/5 in our analysis, with a strong balance of rules, cost, and trader experience.

FTMO Pros & Cons

Most trusted name in prop trading

Generous scaling plan up to $2M

Free retake if profit target met

Excellent educational resources

Reliable monthly payouts

Higher challenge fees than some competitors

Strict evaluation process

10% profit target can be demanding

No swing trading during news

Aqua Funded Pros & Cons

Up to 100% profit split achievable

Refundable challenge fees

Multiple evaluation formats

Accounts up to $400K

Unlimited trading period

Relatively new firm

Building track record for payouts

Community still growing

Some plans have tighter daily drawdowns

Consistency rules on some challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, FTMO or Aqua Funded?

It depends on your trading style. FTMO offers 10% max drawdown and a 80/20 → 90/10 profit split, while Aqua Funded offers 8% max drawdown and a 90/10 → 100% split. FTMO has a higher overall rating at 4.8/5.

What is the cheapest option between FTMO and Aqua Funded?

FTMO challenges start at $155 - $1,080, while Aqua Funded starts at $45 - $1,899. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with FTMO and Aqua Funded?

FTMO allows EAs/bots. Aqua Funded allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.

What are the drawdown rules for FTMO vs Aqua Funded?

FTMO has a 10% max drawdown and 5% daily drawdown. Aqua Funded has a 8% max drawdown and 5% daily drawdown. Use our free Drawdown Calculator to find your safe lot size for either firm.

How long do I have to pass the FTMO vs Aqua Funded challenge?

FTMO gives you Unlimited. Aqua Funded gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 4 and 3 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, FTMO or Aqua Funded?

FTMO offers a 80/20 → 90/10 profit split, while Aqua Funded offers 90/10 → 100%. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.