Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Funding Frontier

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

Funding Frontier

3.8

Offers classic and turbo challenge formats with competitive evaluations for forex and CFD trading.

Visit Funding Frontier

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Funding Frontier

Metric

TopStep

Funding Frontier

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

80/20

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$79 - $449

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:100

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Indices, Commodities

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

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

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Scale with consecutive profits

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

3.8/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Funding Frontier

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

Best for Beginners

Funding Frontier

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Funding Frontier

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

Funding Frontier

Funding Frontier offers better scaling potential: Scale with consecutive profits.

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

Funding Frontier Pros & Cons

Multiple challenge formats

No time limits

Competitive pricing

News trading allowed

Standard industry rules

Lower brand awareness

80% max profit split

Fewer instruments

Limited community

Less promotional activity

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Funding Frontier?

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

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and Funding Frontier?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Funding Frontier starts at $79 - $449. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

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

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Funding Frontier?

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

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Funding Frontier gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.

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

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