Head-to-Head Comparison

The Funded Trader 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.

The Funded Trader

4.2

Well-known prop firm offering multiple challenge types with flexible rules. Popular for competitive pricing and a range of account sizes up to $400K.

Visit The Funded Trader

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: The Funded Trader vs TopStep

Metric

The Funded Trader

TopStep

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

10%

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

90/10

Challenge Cost

$65 - $1,899

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

35 days (Phase 1), 60 days (Phase 2)

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

1:100

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Metals

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$5K, $10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K, $400K

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Account scaling with consistent profitable months

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: The Funded Trader vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners

The Funded Trader

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

The Funded Trader

The Funded Trader 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.

The Funded Trader Pros & Cons

Wide range of account sizes up to $400K

Multiple challenge formats available

Competitive entry fees

News and weekend trading allowed

EAs permitted on all accounts

20% consistency rule applies

Time-limited evaluation phases

Mixed community reviews on payouts

Customer support can be inconsistent

Profit split starts at 80/20 only

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, The Funded Trader or TopStep?

It depends on your trading style. The Funded Trader 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 The Funded Trader and TopStep?

The Funded Trader challenges start at $65 - $1,899, 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 The Funded Trader and TopStep?

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

What are the drawdown rules for The Funded Trader vs TopStep?

The Funded Trader 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 The Funded Trader vs TopStep challenge?

The Funded Trader gives you 35 days (Phase 1), 60 days (Phase 2). TopStep gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.

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

The Funded Trader 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.