Head-to-Head Comparison

Alpha Futures vs TopStep

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.

Alpha Futures

GB-based prop firm specializing in futures trading with up to $500K in allocations and competitive conditions.

Visit Alpha Futures

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

Side-by-Side Comparison: Alpha Futures vs TopStep

Metric

Alpha Futures

TopStep

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

90/10

Challenge Cost

$99 - $349

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Exchange margin

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX)

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

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

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Max allocations up to $500K

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Not Allowed

Rating

4/5

4.5/5

The Verdict: Alpha Futures vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners

Alpha Futures

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Alpha Futures

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

TopStep

TopStep offers better scaling potential: Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital.

Best for Overall Value

TopStep

TopStep earns 4.5/5 in our analysis, with a strong balance of rules, cost, and trader experience.

Alpha Futures Pros & Cons

Competitive futures trading

Low minimum trading days

Up to 90% profit split

Exchange margin rates

Clean evaluation rules

Futures only

Only 1 year operating

Limited to fewer account sizes

UK-based operations

Smaller community

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Alpha Futures or TopStep?

It depends on your trading style. Alpha Futures offers 8% max drawdown and a 80/20 → 90/10 profit split, while TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 split. TopStep has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between Alpha Futures and TopStep?

Alpha Futures challenges start at $99 - $349, while TopStep starts at $49 - $149/mo. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with Alpha Futures and TopStep?

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

What are the drawdown rules for Alpha Futures vs TopStep?

Alpha Futures has a 8% max drawdown and 4% daily drawdown. TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Use our free Drawdown Calculator to find your safe lot size for either firm.

How long do I have to pass the Alpha Futures vs TopStep challenge?

Alpha Futures gives you Unlimited. TopStep gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 3 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, Alpha Futures or TopStep?

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