Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Elite Trader Funding

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

Elite Trader Funding

4.3

Established futures prop firm with a flexible evaluation system and over $7M paid to traders. Offers straightforward rules and competitive profit splits.

Visit Elite Trader Funding

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Elite Trader Funding

Metric

TopStep

Elite Trader Funding

Max Drawdown

4.5%

Daily Drawdown

None

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$45 - $350

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

$10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $150K, $250K

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Multiple funded accounts allowed simultaneously

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.3/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Elite Trader Funding

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

Best for Beginners

Elite Trader Funding

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Elite Trader Funding

Elite Trader Funding provides 4.5% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

Elite Trader Funding

Elite Trader Funding offers better scaling potential: Multiple funded accounts allowed simultaneously.

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

Elite Trader Funding Pros & Cons

Over $7M paid to traders

No daily drawdown limit

Low evaluation fees

One-step evaluation process

Multiple funded accounts allowed

Futures only (no forex)

Trailing drawdown can be complex

Monthly subscription after passing

No weekend holding

Payout caps on initial withdrawals

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Elite Trader Funding?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Elite Trader Funding offers 4.5% 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 Elite Trader Funding?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Elite Trader Funding starts at $45 - $350. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and Elite Trader Funding?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Elite Trader Funding?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Elite Trader Funding has a 4.5% max drawdown and no daily drawdown limit. Use our free Drawdown Calculator to find your safe lot size for either firm.

How long do I have to pass the TopStep vs Elite Trader Funding challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Elite Trader Funding gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Elite Trader Funding?

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