Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Earn2Trade

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

Earn2Trade

4.1

Educational-focused prop firm offering accounts from $25K to $200K with monthly subscription model and strong learning resources.

Visit Earn2Trade

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Earn2Trade

Metric

TopStep

Earn2Trade

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$150 - $350/mo

Trading Period

Unlimited

Monthly subscription

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

Exchange margin

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

$25K, $50K, $100K, $150K, $200K

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Gauntlet Mini and TCP programs with scaling

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.1/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Earn2Trade

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

Best for Beginners

Earn2Trade

Earn2Trade offers more forgiving drawdown rules, making it easier for newer traders to get started.

Best for Aggressive Traders

Earn2Trade

Earn2Trade provides 8% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

Earn2Trade

Earn2Trade offers better scaling potential: Gauntlet Mini and TCP programs with scaling.

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

Earn2Trade Pros & Cons

Excellent educational resources

Strong reputation in futures

Multiple evaluation paths

Real futures market trading

Good community and support

Monthly subscription model

Higher minimum trading days

Futures only - no forex

Stricter drawdown limits

Lower profit split at 80%

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Earn2Trade?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Earn2Trade offers 8% max drawdown and a 80/20 split. TopStep has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and Earn2Trade?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Earn2Trade starts at $150 - $350/mo. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and Earn2Trade?

TopStep does not allow EAs/bots. Earn2Trade allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Earn2Trade?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Earn2Trade has a 8% max drawdown and 4% 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 Earn2Trade challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Earn2Trade gives you Monthly subscription. Both require a minimum of 5 and 15 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Earn2Trade?

TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while Earn2Trade offers 80/20. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.