Head-to-Head Comparison

Axi Select 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.

Axi Select

4.3

Free-to-join capital allocation program by Axi broker offering up to $1M in funding with live trading accounts.

Visit Axi Select

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: Axi Select vs TopStep

Metric

Axi Select

TopStep

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

40/60 → 90/10

90/10

Challenge Cost

Free

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

1:500

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$10K → $1M (progressive)

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Progress through stages up to $1M

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Allowed

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Not Allowed

Rating

4.3/5

4.5/5

The Verdict: Axi Select vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners

Axi Select

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Axi Select

Axi Select provides 10% 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.

Axi Select Pros & Cons

Completely free to join

Real live trading accounts

Up to $1M funding

High leverage up to 1:500

Broker-backed reliability

Lower starting profit split (40%)

Slow progression through stages

Must use Axi as broker

Lower profit target limits growth

Less flexibility in platforms

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, Axi Select or TopStep?

It depends on your trading style. Axi Select offers 10% max drawdown and a 40/60 → 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 Axi Select and TopStep?

Axi Select challenges start at Free, 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 Axi Select and TopStep?

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

What are the drawdown rules for Axi Select vs TopStep?

Axi Select has a 10% max drawdown and 5% 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 Axi Select vs TopStep challenge?

Axi Select gives you Unlimited. TopStep gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 0 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, Axi Select or TopStep?

Axi Select offers a 40/60 → 90/10 profit split, while TopStep offers 90/10. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.