Head-to-Head Comparison

FTUK 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.

F

FTUK

3.9

UK-based prop firm offering instant funding and challenge accounts for forex, futures, and more with competitive conditions.

Visit FTUK
T

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: FTUK vs TopStep

Metric
FTUK
TopStep
Max Drawdown
8%
4%
Daily Drawdown
4%
2%
Profit Target
10%
6%
Profit Split
80/20
90/10
Challenge Cost
$119 - $549
$49 - $149/mo
Trading Period
30 days evaluation
Unlimited
Min Trading Days
5
5
Leverage
1:100
Full contract leverage
Instruments
Forex, Indices, Commodities, Futures
Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)
Account Sizes
$14K, $22K, $40K, $52K, $80K
$50K, $100K, $150K
Scaling
Scale up with profitable trading periods
Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital
News Trading
Not Allowed
Allowed
Weekend Holding
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
EA / Bots
Allowed
Not Allowed
Rating
3.9/5
4.5/5

The Verdict: FTUK vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners
FTUK

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

Best for Aggressive Traders
FTUK

FTUK provides 8% 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.

FTUK Pros & Cons

Instant funding option
UK-regulated operations
EAs allowed
Forex and futures coverage
Established reputation
No news trading
No weekend holding
Unusual account sizes
Higher profit target
Stricter drawdown limits

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, FTUK or TopStep?
It depends on your trading style. FTUK offers 8% max drawdown and a 80/20 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 FTUK and TopStep?
FTUK challenges start at $119 - $549, 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 FTUK and TopStep?
FTUK allows EAs/bots. TopStep does not allow them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.
What are the drawdown rules for FTUK vs TopStep?
FTUK has a 8% max drawdown and 4% 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 FTUK vs TopStep challenge?
FTUK gives you 30 days evaluation. TopStep gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.
Which firm has a better profit split, FTUK or TopStep?
FTUK offers a 80/20 profit split, while TopStep offers 90/10. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.

Not sure which firm to pick?

Use our free tools to calculate your exact safe lot size and simulate your challenge before committing.

We may earn a commission if you sign up — our rankings remain unbiased.

Verified & Transparent
Data verified daily • Affiliate links disclosed • No hidden bias

Keep Researching

Compare FTUK with Other Firms

Compare TopStep with Other Firms

Popular Prop Firm Comparisons