Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Clarity Traders

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

Clarity Traders

3.9

Prop firm emphasizing transparent rules and clear pricing with both challenge and instant funding options.

Visit Clarity Traders

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Clarity Traders

Metric

TopStep

Clarity Traders

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$49 - $399

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Scale with performance milestones

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

3.9/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Clarity Traders

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

Best for Beginners

Clarity Traders

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Clarity Traders

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

Clarity Traders

Clarity Traders offers better scaling potential: Scale with performance 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

Clarity Traders Pros & Cons

Very affordable entry

Transparent rules

Instant funding option

Low minimum trading days

Up to 90% profit split

Newer company

Less proven track record

Smaller community

Limited educational resources

Support still maturing

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Clarity Traders?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Clarity Traders offers 10% max drawdown and a 80/20 → 90/10 split. TopStep has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and Clarity Traders?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Clarity Traders starts at $49 - $399. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and Clarity Traders?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Clarity Traders?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Clarity Traders 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 TopStep vs Clarity Traders challenge?

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

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Clarity Traders?

TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while Clarity Traders offers 80/20 → 90/10. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.