Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs TradeDay

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
T

TradeDay

4.1

Futures prop firm offering competitive pricing with up to $750K in allocations and trader-friendly rules.

Visit TradeDay

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs TradeDay

Metric
TopStep
TradeDay
Max Drawdown
4%
8%
Daily Drawdown
2%
4%
Profit Target
6%
6%
Profit Split
90/10
80/20 → 90/10
Challenge Cost
$49 - $149/mo
$99 - $499
Trading Period
Unlimited
Unlimited
Min Trading Days
5
5
Leverage
Full contract leverage
Exchange margin
Instruments
Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)
Futures
Account Sizes
$50K, $100K, $150K
$25K, $50K, $100K, $150K, $250K
Scaling
Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital
Max allocations $750K
News Trading
Allowed
Allowed
Weekend Holding
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
EA / Bots
Not Allowed
Allowed
Rating
4.5/5
4.1/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs TradeDay

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

Best for Beginners
TradeDay

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

Best for Aggressive Traders
TradeDay

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

Best for Long-term Scaling
TradeDay

TradeDay offers better scaling potential: Max allocations $750K.

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

TradeDay Pros & Cons

Generous allocation limits
Competitive pricing
Up to 90% profit split
Clear evaluation rules
No time pressure
Futures only
Limited instrument variety
Newer brand
Cannot hold over weekends
Mid-range recognition

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or TradeDay?
It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while TradeDay 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 TradeDay?
TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while TradeDay starts at $99 - $499. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.
Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and TradeDay?
TopStep does not allow EAs/bots. TradeDay allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.
What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs TradeDay?
TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. TradeDay 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 TradeDay challenge?
TopStep gives you Unlimited. TradeDay gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.
Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or TradeDay?
TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while TradeDay offers 80/20 → 90/10. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.

Not sure which firm to pick?

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