Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Trade The Pool

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

Trade The Pool

Unique prop firm focused on equity/stock traders with a limited-risk model where traders keep profits while the firm handles downside.

Visit Trade The Pool

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Trade The Pool

Metric

TopStep

Trade The Pool

Max Drawdown

5.5%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$97 - $397

Trading Period

Unlimited

45 days

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:1 to 6:1

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

US Stocks, ETFs

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

$20K, $40K, $80K, $160K, $260K

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Virtual margin with scaling potential

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Trade The Pool

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

Best for Beginners

Trade The Pool

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Trade The Pool

Trade The Pool provides 5.5% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

Trade The Pool

Trade The Pool offers better scaling potential: Virtual margin with scaling potential.

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

Trade The Pool Pros & Cons

Unique stock trading focus

Limited risk model

Trade real US equities

Good for day traders

Competitive pricing

Stocks only - no forex/crypto

Lower leverage

EAs not allowed

Shorter trading period

Less popular than forex props

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Trade The Pool?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Trade The Pool offers 5.5% 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 Trade The Pool?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Trade The Pool starts at $97 - $397. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and Trade The Pool?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Trade The Pool?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Trade The Pool has a 5.5% max drawdown and 3% 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 Trade The Pool challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Trade The Pool gives you 45 days. Both require a minimum of 5 and 3 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Trade The Pool?

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