Head-to-Head Comparison

Apex Trader Funding 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.

Apex Trader Funding

4.4

Leading futures prop trading firm with simple rules and frequent promotions. Best choice for futures traders looking for straightforward evaluations.

Visit Apex Trader Funding

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: Apex Trader Funding vs TopStep

Metric

Apex Trader Funding

TopStep

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

None

Profit Target

Profit Split

100% (first $25K), then 90/10

90/10

Challenge Cost

$18 - $397

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

30 days

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

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

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Trade up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

News Trading

Not Allowed

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Not Allowed

Rating

4.4/5

4.5/5

The Verdict: Apex Trader Funding vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners

Apex Trader Funding

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding provides 6% 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.

Apex Trader Funding Pros & Cons

No daily drawdown limit

100% of first $25K profit

Simple one-step evaluation

Frequent discount promotions

Multiple funded accounts allowed

Futures only (no forex)

Trailing drawdown can be tricky

Monthly subscription after eval

No weekend holding

Higher min trading days

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, Apex Trader Funding or TopStep?

It depends on your trading style. Apex Trader Funding offers 6% max drawdown and a 100% (first $25K), then 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 Apex Trader Funding and TopStep?

Apex Trader Funding challenges start at $18 - $397, 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 Apex Trader Funding and TopStep?

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

What are the drawdown rules for Apex Trader Funding vs TopStep?

Apex Trader Funding has a 6% max drawdown and no daily drawdown limit. 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 Apex Trader Funding vs TopStep challenge?

Apex Trader Funding gives you 30 days. TopStep gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 0 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, Apex Trader Funding or TopStep?

Apex Trader Funding offers a 100% (first $25K), then 90/10 profit split, while TopStep offers 90/10. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.