Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep 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.

TopStep

4.5

One of the original futures prop firms with a proven track record. Offers a structured Trading Combine evaluation and path to live funded trading with real capital.

Visit TopStep

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: TopStep vs Aqua Funded

Metric

TopStep

Aqua Funded

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

90/10 → 100%

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$45 - $1,899

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:100

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Account scaling based on consistent profitability milestones

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.3/5

The Verdict: TopStep 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

Aqua Funded

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Aqua Funded

Aqua Funded provides 8% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

Aqua Funded

Aqua Funded offers better scaling potential: Account scaling based on consistent profitability milestones.

Best for Overall Value

TopStep

TopStep earns 4.5/5 in our analysis, with a strong balance of rules, cost, and trader experience.

TopStep Pros & Cons

Established since 2012 with proven track record

Path to real live funded account

Low monthly subscription cost

EOD trailing drawdown (not intraday)

Weekly payouts available

Futures only (no forex)

50% consistency target required

Daily loss limit on some platforms

Intraday trailing drawdown on PRO accounts

No automated trading bots

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, TopStep or Aqua Funded?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Aqua Funded offers 8% max drawdown and a 90/10 → 100% split. TopStep has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and Aqua Funded?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, 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 TopStep and Aqua Funded?

TopStep does not allow EAs/bots. Aqua Funded allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Aqua Funded?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% 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 TopStep vs Aqua Funded challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Aqua Funded gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 3 trading days respectively.

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

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