Head-to-Head Comparison

DNA Funded 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.

DNA Funded

4.2

Offers funded accounts from $5K to $200K with scaling potential and competitive profit splits across major markets.

Visit DNA Funded

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: DNA Funded vs TopStep

Metric

DNA Funded

TopStep

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $999

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

1:100

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$5K, $10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Scale up after consistent profitability

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

4.2/5

4.5/5

The Verdict: DNA Funded vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners

DNA Funded

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

DNA Funded

DNA Funded 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.

DNA Funded Pros & Cons

Unlimited evaluation time

Wide range of account sizes

Competitive profit splits

Multiple instrument categories

Scaling program available

Newer firm with less track record

Customer support can be slow

Some programs have consistency rules

Lower brand recognition

Limited educational resources

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, DNA Funded or TopStep?

It depends on your trading style. DNA Funded offers 10% 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 DNA Funded and TopStep?

DNA Funded challenges start at $49 - $999, 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 DNA Funded and TopStep?

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

What are the drawdown rules for DNA Funded vs TopStep?

DNA Funded 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 DNA Funded vs TopStep challenge?

DNA Funded gives you Unlimited. TopStep gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, DNA Funded or TopStep?

DNA Funded 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.