Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs E8 Markets

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

E8 Markets

4.5

Fast-growing prop firm offering competitive pricing and flexible evaluation. Popular for their lower entry costs and trader-friendly rules.

Visit E8 Markets

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs E8 Markets

Metric

TopStep

E8 Markets

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 100%

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$40 - $1,998

Trading Period

Unlimited

Unlimited for both phases

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:30 (Forex), 1:15 (Indices/Metals)

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

$5K, $10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K, $400K, $500K

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Scale up to $1M with consistent performance

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs E8 Markets

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

Best for Beginners

E8 Markets

E8 Markets offers more forgiving drawdown rules, making it easier for newer traders to get started.

Best for Aggressive Traders

E8 Markets

E8 Markets provides 8% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

E8 Markets

E8 Markets offers better scaling potential: Scale up to $1M with consistent performance.

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

E8 Markets Pros & Cons

Lower challenge fees

Unlimited trading period

Lower profit target (8%)

Wide range of account sizes

Fast payout processing

Lower max drawdown (8%)

No weekend holding

Lower leverage than FTMO

Newer firm with less track record

80/20 profit split only

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or E8 Markets?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while E8 Markets offers 8% max drawdown and a 80/20 → 100% split. E8 Markets has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and E8 Markets?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while E8 Markets starts at $40 - $1,998. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and E8 Markets?

TopStep does not allow EAs/bots. E8 Markets allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs E8 Markets?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. E8 Markets has a 8% max drawdown and 4% 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 E8 Markets challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. E8 Markets gives you Unlimited for both phases. Both require a minimum of 5 and 1 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or E8 Markets?

TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while E8 Markets offers 80/20 → 100%. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.