Head-to-Head Comparison

TopStep vs The5ers

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

The5ers

4.3

Unique prop firm offering instant funding options alongside traditional evaluation. Great for traders who want to start trading immediately.

Visit The5ers

Side-by-Side Comparison: TopStep vs The5ers

Metric

TopStep

The5ers

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

90/10

50/50 → 100%

Challenge Cost

$49 - $149/mo

$22 - $850

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Full contract leverage

1:30

Instruments

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Forex, Metals, Indices

Account Sizes

$50K, $100K, $150K

$2.5K, $5K, $6K, $10K, $20K, $25K, $50K, $60K, $100K, $250K

Scaling

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

Double account at each milestone up to $4M

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

Allowed

EA / Bots

Not Allowed

Allowed

Rating

4.5/5

4.3/5

The Verdict: TopStep vs The5ers

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

Best for Beginners

The5ers

The5ers offers more forgiving drawdown rules, making it easier for newer traders to get started.

Best for Aggressive Traders

The5ers

The5ers provides 6% max drawdown allowance, giving aggressive trading styles more breathing room.

Best for Long-term Scaling

The5ers

The5ers offers better scaling potential: Double account at each milestone up to $4M.

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

The5ers Pros & Cons

Instant funding option available

Low profit targets (6%)

Unlimited trading period

Can scale to $4M

Low minimum trading days

Very tight drawdown limits (6%/3%)

Lower initial profit split (50/50)

Limited instruments

No EAs allowed

No news trading

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TopStep or The5ers?

It depends on your trading style. TopStep offers 4% max drawdown and a 90/10 profit split, while The5ers offers 6% max drawdown and a 50/50 → 100% split. TopStep has a higher overall rating at 4.5/5.

What is the cheapest option between TopStep and The5ers?

TopStep challenges start at $49 - $149/mo, while The5ers starts at $22 - $850. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

Can I use EAs or trading bots with TopStep and The5ers?

TopStep does not allow EAs/bots. The5ers allows them. Always verify the latest rules on each firm's website.

What are the drawdown rules for TopStep vs The5ers?

TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. The5ers has a 6% max drawdown and 3% 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 The5ers challenge?

TopStep gives you Unlimited. The5ers gives you Unlimited. Both require a minimum of 5 and 3 trading days respectively.

Which firm has a better profit split, TopStep or The5ers?

TopStep offers a 90/10 profit split, while The5ers offers 50/50 → 100%. Higher profit splits mean more of your trading profits go to you.