Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs BrightFunded

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

BrightFunded

4.2

Offers funded accounts up to $400K with profit splits up to 100%, 24-hour payouts, and a 15% evaluation profit reward.

Visit BrightFunded

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs BrightFunded

Metric

TopStep

BrightFunded

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 100/0

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$79 - $1,599

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:100

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Digital Assets, Indices, Commodities

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Scale with consistent profitable trading

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.2/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs BrightFunded

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

Best for Beginners

BrightFunded

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

BrightFunded

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

BrightFunded

BrightFunded offers better scaling potential: Scale with consistent profitable trading.

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

BrightFunded Pros & Cons

Profit split can reach 100%

24-hour payout guarantee

15% evaluation profit reward

Low minimum trading days

Weekly payout options

Newer company with less history

Higher tier fees are expensive

Limited platform choices

Some restrictions on strategies

Customer support still growing

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or BrightFunded?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while BrightFunded offers 10% max drawdown and a 80/20 → 100/0 split. TopStep has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and BrightFunded?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while BrightFunded starts at $79 - $1,599. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and BrightFunded?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs BrightFunded?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. BrightFunded has a 10% max drawdown and 5% daily drawdown. Use our free Drawdown Calculator to find your safe lot size for either firm.

How long do I have to pass the TopStep vs BrightFunded challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. BrightFunded gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 3 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or BrightFunded?

TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while BrightFunded offers 80/20 → 100/0. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.