Head-to-Head Comparison

Elite 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.

Elite Trader Funding

4.3

Established futures prop firm with a flexible evaluation system and over $7M paid to traders. Offers straightforward rules and competitive profit splits.

Visit Elite 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: Elite Trader Funding vs TopStep

Metric

Elite Trader Funding

TopStep

Max Drawdown

4.5%

Daily Drawdown

None

Profit Target

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

90/10

Challenge Cost

$45 - $350

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $150K, $250K

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Multiple funded accounts allowed simultaneously

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Not Allowed

Rating

4.3/5

4.5/5

The Verdict: Elite 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

Elite Trader Funding

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Elite Trader Funding

Elite Trader Funding provides 4.5% 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.

Elite Trader Funding Pros & Cons

Over $7M paid to traders

No daily drawdown limit

Low evaluation fees

One-step evaluation process

Multiple funded accounts allowed

Futures only (no forex)

Trailing drawdown can be complex

Monthly subscription after passing

No weekend holding

Payout caps on initial withdrawals

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, Elite Trader Funding or TopStep?

It depends on your trading style. Elite Trader Funding offers 4.5% 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 Elite Trader Funding and TopStep?

Elite Trader Funding challenges start at $45 - $350, 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 Elite Trader Funding and TopStep?

Elite 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 Elite Trader Funding vs TopStep?

Elite Trader Funding has a 4.5% 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 Elite Trader Funding vs TopStep challenge?

Elite Trader Funding 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, Elite Trader Funding or TopStep?

Elite Trader Funding 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.