Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Apex Trader Funding

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.

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

Apex Trader Funding

4.4

Leading futures prop trading firm with simple rules and frequent promotions. Best choice for futures traders looking for straightforward evaluations.

Visit Apex Trader Funding

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Apex Trader Funding

Metric

TopStep

Apex Trader Funding

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

None

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

100% (first $25K), then 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$18 - $397

Trading Period

Unlimited

30 days

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

$25K, $50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Trade up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously

News Trading

Allowed

Not Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.4/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Apex Trader Funding

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

Best for Beginners

Apex Trader Funding

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding provides 6% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding offers better scaling potential: Trade up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously.

Best for Overall Value

TopStep

TopStep earns 4.5/5 in our analysis, with a strong balance of rules, cost, and trader experience.

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

Apex Trader Funding Pros & Cons

No daily drawdown limit

100% of first $25K profit

Simple one-step evaluation

Frequent discount promotions

Multiple funded accounts allowed

Futures only (no forex)

Trailing drawdown can be tricky

Monthly subscription after eval

No weekend holding

Higher min trading days

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Apex Trader Funding?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Apex Trader Funding offers 6% max drawdown and a 100% (first $25K), then 90/10 split. TopStep has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and Apex Trader Funding?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Apex Trader Funding starts at $18 - $397. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and Apex Trader Funding?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Apex Trader Funding?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Apex Trader Funding has a 6% max drawdown and no daily drawdown limit. Use our free Drawdown Calculator to find your safe lot size for either firm.

How long do I have to pass the TopStep vs Apex Trader Funding challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Apex Trader Funding gives you 30 days. Both require a minimum of 5 and 0 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Apex Trader Funding?

TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while Apex Trader Funding offers 100% (first $25K), then 90/10. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.