Head-to-Head Comparison

TradeDay vs TopStep

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.

TradeDay

4.1

Futures prop firm offering competitive pricing with up to $750K in allocations and trader-friendly rules.

Visit TradeDay

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

Side-by-Side Comparison: TradeDay vs TopStep

Metric

TradeDay

TopStep

Max Drawdown

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

80/20 → 90/10

90/10

Challenge Cost

$99 - $499

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

Exchange margin

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Futures

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

$25K, $50K, $100K, $150K, $250K

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Max allocations $750K

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Not Allowed

Rating

4.1/5

4.5/5

The Verdict: TradeDay vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners

TradeDay

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

TradeDay

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

Best for Long-term Scaling

TopStep

TopStep offers better scaling potential: Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital.

Best for Overall Value

TopStep

TopStep earns 4.5/5 in our analysis, with a strong balance of rules, cost, and trader experience.

TradeDay Pros & Cons

Generous allocation limits

Competitive pricing

Up to 90% profit split

Clear evaluation rules

No time pressure

Futures only

Limited instrument variety

Newer brand

Cannot hold over weekends

Mid-range recognition

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, TradeDay or TopStep?

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

What is the cheapest option between TradeDay and TopStep?

TradeDay challenges start at $99 - $499, while TopStep starts at $49 - $149/mo. Compare account sizes and what's included before choosing based on price alone.

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

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

What are the drawdown rules for TradeDay vs TopStep?

TradeDay has a 8% max drawdown and 4% daily drawdown. TopStep has a 4% max drawdown and 2% daily drawdown. Use our free Drawdown Calculator to find your safe lot size for either firm.

How long do I have to pass the TradeDay vs TopStep challenge?

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

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

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