Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs DNA 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

DNA Funded

4.2

Offers funded accounts from $5K to $200K with scaling potential and competitive profit splits across major markets.

Visit DNA Funded

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs DNA Funded

Metric

TopStep

DNA Funded

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$49 - $999

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Scale up after consistent profitability

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.2/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs DNA Funded

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

Best for Beginners

DNA Funded

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

DNA Funded

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

DNA Funded

DNA Funded offers better scaling potential: Scale up after consistent profitability.

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

DNA Funded Pros & Cons

Unlimited evaluation time

Wide range of account sizes

Competitive profit splits

Multiple instrument categories

Scaling program available

Newer firm with less track record

Customer support can be slow

Some programs have consistency rules

Lower brand recognition

Limited educational resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or DNA Funded?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while DNA Funded 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 DNA Funded?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while DNA Funded starts at $49 - $999. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and DNA Funded?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs DNA Funded?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. DNA Funded 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 DNA Funded challenge?

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

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

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