Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs The Funded Trader

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

The Funded Trader

4.2

Well-known prop firm offering multiple challenge types with flexible rules. Popular for competitive pricing and a range of account sizes up to $400K.

Visit The Funded Trader

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs The Funded Trader

Metric

TopStep

The Funded Trader

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

10%

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$65 - $1,899

Trading Period

Unlimited

35 days (Phase 1), 60 days (Phase 2)

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:100

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Metals

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

$5K, $10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K, $400K

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Account scaling with consistent profitable months

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.2/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs The Funded Trader

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

Best for Beginners

The Funded Trader

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

The Funded Trader

The Funded Trader provides 10% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

The Funded Trader

The Funded Trader offers better scaling potential: Account scaling with consistent 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

The Funded Trader Pros & Cons

Wide range of account sizes up to $400K

Multiple challenge formats available

Competitive entry fees

News and weekend trading allowed

EAs permitted on all accounts

20% consistency rule applies

Time-limited evaluation phases

Mixed community reviews on payouts

Customer support can be inconsistent

Profit split starts at 80/20 only

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or The Funded Trader?

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

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while The Funded Trader starts at $65 - $1,899. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and The Funded Trader?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs The Funded Trader?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. The Funded Trader 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 The Funded Trader challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. The Funded Trader gives you 35 days (Phase 1), 60 days (Phase 2). Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or The Funded Trader?

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