Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs FTUK

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.

T

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
F

FTUK

3.9

UK-based prop firm offering instant funding and challenge accounts for forex, futures, and more with competitive conditions.

Visit FTUK

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs FTUK

Metric
TopStep
FTUK
Max Drawdown
4%
8%
Daily Drawdown
2%
4%
Profit Target
6%
10%
Profit Split
90/10
80/20
Challenge Cost
$49 - $149/mo
$119 - $549
Trading Period
Unlimited
30 days evaluation
Min Trading Days
5
5
Leverage
Full contract leverage
1:100
Instruments
Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)
Forex, Indices, Commodities, Futures
Account Sizes
$50K, $100K, $150K
$14K, $22K, $40K, $52K, $80K
Scaling
Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital
Scale up with profitable trading periods
News Trading
Allowed
Not Allowed
Weekend Holding
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
EA / Bots
Not Allowed
Allowed
Rating
4.5/5
3.9/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs FTUK

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

Best for Beginners
FTUK

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

Best for Aggressive Traders
FTUK

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

Best for Long-term Scaling
FTUK

FTUK offers better scaling potential: Scale up with profitable trading periods.

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

FTUK Pros & Cons

Instant funding option
UK-regulated operations
EAs allowed
Forex and futures coverage
Established reputation
No news trading
No weekend holding
Unusual account sizes
Higher profit target
Stricter drawdown limits

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or FTUK?
It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while FTUK 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 FTUK?
TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while FTUK starts at $119 - $549. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.
Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and FTUK?
TopStep does not allow EAs/bots. FTUK allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.
What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs FTUK?
TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. FTUK 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 FTUK challenge?
TopStep gives you Unlimited. FTUK gives you 30 days evaluation. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.
Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or FTUK?
TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while FTUK offers 80/20. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.

Not sure which firm to pick?

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