Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Propel Capital

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

Propel Capital

3.9

Modern prop firm with clean evaluation process, competitive conditions, and focus on trader success.

Visit Propel Capital

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Propel Capital

Metric

TopStep

Propel Capital

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$79 - $449

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:100

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Indices, Commodities

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Progressive capital growth

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

3.9/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Propel Capital

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

Best for Beginners

Propel Capital

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Propel Capital

Propel Capital provides 10% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

Propel Capital

Propel Capital offers better scaling potential: Progressive capital growth.

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

Propel Capital Pros & Cons

Clean and modern platform

Up to 90% profit split

No time limits

Competitive pricing

Trader-focused approach

Newer to market

Smaller community

Fewer instruments

Limited brand recognition

Support still scaling

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Propel Capital?

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

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Propel Capital starts at $79 - $449. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and Propel Capital?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Propel Capital?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Propel Capital 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 Propel Capital challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Propel Capital gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Propel Capital?

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