Head-to-Head Comparison

XLTrade 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.

XLTrade

3.8

Offers pro evaluation programs with competitive pricing and multiple challenge formats for forex and CFD traders.

Visit XLTrade

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: XLTrade vs TopStep

Metric

XLTrade

TopStep

Max Drawdown

10%

Daily Drawdown

Profit Target

Profit Split

80/20

90/10

Challenge Cost

$79 - $449

$49 - $149/mo

Trading Period

Unlimited

Min Trading Days

Leverage

1:100

Full contract leverage

Instruments

Forex, Indices, Commodities

Futures (CME, CBOT, NYMEX, COMEX)

Account Sizes

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

$50K, $100K, $150K

Scaling

Progressive scaling available

Path from Express Funded to Live Funded account with real capital

News Trading

Allowed

Weekend Holding

Allowed

Not Allowed

EA / Bots

Allowed

Not Allowed

Rating

3.8/5

4.5/5

The Verdict: XLTrade vs TopStep

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

Best for Beginners

XLTrade

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

Best for Aggressive Traders

XLTrade

XLTrade provides 10% 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.

XLTrade Pros & Cons

Aggressive promotional discounts

Multiple challenge formats

No time limits

Reasonable pricing

Full instrument coverage

Lower brand recognition

80% max profit split

Fewer account sizes

Support varies

Less transparent data

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, XLTrade or TopStep?

It depends on your trading style. XLTrade offers 10% max drawdown and a 80/20 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 XLTrade and TopStep?

XLTrade challenges start at $79 - $449, 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 XLTrade and TopStep?

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

What are the drawdown rules for XLTrade vs TopStep?

XLTrade has a 10% max drawdown and 5% 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 XLTrade vs TopStep challenge?

XLTrade 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, XLTrade or TopStep?

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