Head-to-Head Comparison

FTMO vs City Traders Imperium

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

City Traders Imperium

4.3

Dubai-based prop firm established in 2018 offering evaluation and instant funding with static drawdown. Features a monthly salary option and scaling to $4M.

Visit City Traders Imperium

Side-by-Side Comparison: FTMO vs City Traders Imperium

Metric

FTMO

City Traders Imperium

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

10%

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

80/20 → 100%

Challenge Cost

$155 - $1,080

$39 - $549

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

1:100

1:30

Instruments

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Stocks

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Metals

Account Sizes

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

$2.5K, $5K, $10K, $20K, $50K, $100K

Scaling

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

Scale up to $4M with 10% profit milestones

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Rating

4.8/5

4.3/5

The Verdict: FTMO vs City Traders Imperium

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

Best for Beginners

City Traders Imperium

City Traders Imperium offers lower entry costs, 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

City Traders Imperium Pros & Cons

Static drawdown (does not trail)

Monthly salary up to $500 per account

Profit split scales to 100%

Low entry from just $2.5K accounts

Weekend and overnight holding allowed

Lower leverage (1:30)

Smaller starting accounts compared to rivals

Must prove EA ownership on some plans

KYC process can be slow

Limited to traders from 60+ countries

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, FTMO or City Traders Imperium?

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

What is the cheapest option between FTMO and City Traders Imperium?

FTMO challenges start at $155 - $1,080, while City Traders Imperium starts at $39 - $549. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with FTMO and City Traders Imperium?

FTMO allows EAs/bots. City Traders Imperium allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.

What are the drawdown rules for FTMO vs City Traders Imperium?

FTMO has a 10% max drawdown and 5% daily drawdown. City Traders Imperium has a 10% 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 City Traders Imperium challenge?

FTMO gives you Unlimited. City Traders Imperium gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 4 and 0 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, FTMO or City Traders Imperium?

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