Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs Maven Trading

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

Maven Trading

3.9

Emerging prop firm with competitive pricing, multiple challenge formats, and fast payouts for forex and CFD traders.

Visit Maven Trading

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs Maven Trading

Metric

TopStep

Maven Trading

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

Progressive capital increases

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

3.9/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs Maven Trading

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

Best for Beginners

Maven Trading

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

Maven Trading

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

Maven Trading

Maven Trading offers better scaling potential: Progressive capital increases.

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

Maven Trading Pros & Cons

Competitive pricing

No time limits

Clean evaluation rules

Fast payouts

Multiple challenge options

Less established brand

Fewer instruments

80% max profit split

Limited educational resources

Smaller trader community

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or Maven Trading?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while Maven Trading 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 Maven Trading?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while Maven Trading 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 Maven Trading?

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

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs Maven Trading?

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

TopStep gives you Unlimited. Maven Trading gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 5 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or Maven Trading?

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