Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Phidias Propfirm

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

Phidias Propfirm

4.3

Fast-growing firm with 48-hour path to payout, EOD drawdown, and flexible account types popular with US traders.

Visit Phidias Propfirm

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Phidias Propfirm

Metric

TopStep

Phidias Propfirm

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$69 - $599

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

Exchange margin

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Futures

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Scale with consecutive profitable months

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.3/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Phidias Propfirm

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

Best for Beginners

Phidias Propfirm

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Phidias Propfirm

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

Phidias Propfirm

Phidias Propfirm offers better scaling potential: Scale with consecutive profitable months.

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

Phidias Propfirm Pros & Cons

48-hour path to payout

EOD drawdown calculation

Only 2 min trading days

News and weekend trading

No consistency rules in eval

Futures only

Relatively newer firm

Limited instrument variety

US-focused primarily

Smaller community

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Phidias Propfirm?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Phidias Propfirm offers 8% 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 Phidias Propfirm?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Phidias Propfirm starts at $69 - $599. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and Phidias Propfirm?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Phidias Propfirm?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Phidias Propfirm 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 Phidias Propfirm challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Phidias Propfirm gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 2 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Phidias Propfirm?

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