Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs FTMO

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

FTMO

4.8

The most established and trusted prop trading firm with rigorous but fair evaluation process. Known for excellent support and reliable payouts.

Visit FTMO

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs FTMO

Metric

TopStep

FTMO

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

10%

Profit Split

90/10

80/20 → 90/10

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$155 - $1,080

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:100

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto, Stocks

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Scale up to $2M after 4 months of profitable trading

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.8/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs FTMO

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

Best for Beginners

FTMO

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

FTMO

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

FTMO

FTMO offers better scaling potential: Scale up to $2M after 4 months of profitable trading.

Best for Overall Value

FTMO

FTMO earns 4.8/5 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

FTMO Pros & Cons

Most trusted name in prop trading

Generous scaling plan up to $2M

Free retake if profit target met

Excellent educational resources

Reliable monthly payouts

Higher challenge fees than some competitors

Strict evaluation process

10% profit target can be demanding

No swing trading during news

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or FTMO?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while FTMO offers 10% max drawdown and a 80/20 → 90/10 split. FTMO has a higher overall rating at 4.8/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and FTMO?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while FTMO starts at $155 - $1,080. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

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

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs FTMO?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. FTMO 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 FTMO challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. FTMO gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 4 trading days respectively.

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

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