Head-to-Head Comparison

FTMO vs The5ers

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.

FTMO

4.8

The most established and trusted prop trading firm with rigorous but fair evaluation process. Known for excellent support and reliable payouts.

Visit FTMO

The5ers

4.3

Unique prop firm offering instant funding options alongside traditional evaluation. Great for traders who want to start trading immediately.

Visit The5ers

Side-by-Side Comparison: FTMO vs The5ers

Metric

FTMO

The5ers

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

10%

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

50/50 → 100%

Challenge Cost

$155 - $1,080

$22 - $850

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

1:100

1:30

Instruments

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Stocks

Forex, Metals, Indices

Account Sizes

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

$2.5K, $5K, $6K, $10K, $20K, $25K, $50K, $60K, $100K, $250K

Scaling

Scale up to $2M after 4 months of profitable trading

Double account at each milestone up to $4M

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Rating

4.8/5

4.3/5

The Verdict: FTMO vs The5ers

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

Best for Beginners

FTMO

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

FTMO

FTMO provides 10% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

FTMO

FTMO offers better scaling potential: Scale up to $2M after 4 months of profitable trading.

Best for Overall Value

FTMO

FTMO earns 4.8/5 in our analysis, with a strong balance of rules, cost, and trader experience.

FTMO Pros & Cons

Most trusted name in prop trading

Generous scaling plan up to $2M

Free retake if profit target met

Excellent educational resources

Reliable monthly payouts

Higher challenge fees than some competitors

Strict evaluation process

10% profit target can be demanding

No swing trading during news

The5ers Pros & Cons

Instant funding option available

Low profit targets (6%)

Unlimited trading period

Can scale to $4M

Low minimum trading days

Very tight drawdown limits (6%/3%)

Lower initial profit split (50/50)

Limited instruments

No EAs allowed

No news trading

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, FTMO or The5ers?

It depends on your trading style. FTMO offers 10% max drawdown and a 80/20 → 90/10 profit split, while The5ers offers 6% max drawdown and a 50/50 → 100% split. FTMO has a higher overall rating at 4.8/5.

What is the cheapest option between FTMO and The5ers?

FTMO challenges start at $155 - $1,080, while The5ers starts at $22 - $850. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with FTMO and The5ers?

FTMO allows EAs/bots. The5ers allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.

What are the drawdown rules for FTMO vs The5ers?

FTMO has a 10% max drawdown and 5% daily drawdown. The5ers has a 6% max drawdown and 3% daily drawdown. Use our free Drawdown Calculator to find your safe lot size for either firm.

How long do I have to pass the FTMO vs The5ers challenge?

FTMO gives you Unlimited. The5ers gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 4 and 3 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, FTMO or The5ers?

FTMO offers a 80/20 → 90/10 profit split, while The5ers offers 50/50 → 100%. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.