Apex Trader Funding vs City Traders Imperium: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Apex Trader Funding and City Traders Imperium face a decision between easier evaluation requirements versus more trading flexibility. Apex offers a more accessible path with just a 6% Phase 1 profit target and 100% profit splits from day one, while City Traders Imperium provides unlimited time to pass evaluation and allows news trading strategies. This comparison examines their evaluation rules, profit splits, trading restrictions, and reliability to help you determine which firm aligns with your trading style and risk tolerance.
AT
Apex Trader Funding
Est. 2021 · Austin, USA
4.4
18,000 reviews
VS
4 wins
2 ties
6 wins
CT
City Traders Imperium
Est. 2018 · London, UK
4.2
1,500 reviews
Feature
Apex Trader Funding
City Traders Imperium
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$412
Phase 1 Profit Target
6%✓ Easier to pass
8%
Max Total Loss
4%
5%✓ More drawdown room
Min Trading Days
1 days✓ More flexible
3 days
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
No limit✓ No time limit
Payout Split
100%✓ Higher starting split
80% (up to 100%)
Payout Frequency
every 5 trading days
weekly✓ Faster payouts
Platforms
NinjaTrader, Rithmic, Tradovate, Wealthcharts✓ More platform options
MT5, Match-Trader
Apex Trader Funding
Pros
+One day minimum to pass evaluation with simple rules
+100% profit split - no revenue sharing with the firm
+Fast payouts every 5 trading days with no payout denials
+One-time fees with no recurring billing or subscription costs
+Up to 20 accounts allowed per trader with built-in scaling
Cons
−Futures trading only - no forex or stock options available
−50% consistency rule limits profit concentration from best trading days
−No reset options available on evaluation accounts
−Maximum 6 payout requests allowed per account
−Account expires after 30 days of inactivity
City Traders Imperium
Pros
+Multiple account types: 1-step, 2-step challenges, and instant funding options
+Unlimited time limits on challenges with no expiration dates
+Up to 100% profit share available through VIP program progression
+Free access to CTI Academy educational content with all accounts
+24/7 multilingual customer support with 1-hour first response time
Cons
−No refunds available once any trading activity occurs on the account
−Limited information about specific trading instruments and leverage ratios
−Relatively high instant funding fees compared to challenge options
−VIP benefits require meeting specific performance criteria
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
Apex Trader Funding suits traders who prioritize quick evaluation completion and maximum profit retention. With a 6% Phase 1 target versus City Traders Imperium's 8%, plus the ability to pass in just one trading day, Apex makes it easier to reach funded status. The immediate 100% profit split also means more money in your pocket from the first payout.
City Traders Imperium better serves patient traders who need flexibility and use specific strategies. The unlimited time limit removes pressure during evaluation, while news trading permissions and EA/bot support accommodate algorithmic and event-driven strategies that Apex restricts. The extra 1% drawdown room (5% vs 4%) also provides more breathing room for position sizing.
For most retail traders, Apex Trader Funding offers the clearer path to profitability with its lower profit targets and superior payout structure, supported by 18,000 Trustpilot reviews versus City Traders Imperium's 1,500.
Choose Apex Trader Funding if:
→One day minimum to pass evaluation with simple rules
→100% profit split - no revenue sharing with the firm
→Fast payouts every 5 trading days with no payout denials
→One-time fees with no recurring billing or subscription costs
Choose City Traders Imperium if:
→Multiple account types: 1-step, 2-step challenges, and instant funding options
→Unlimited time limits on challenges with no expiration dates
→Up to 100% profit share available through VIP program progression
→Free access to CTI Academy educational content with all accounts
Disclaimer:This comparison is for informational purposes only. Prop firm rules change regularly — always verify current terms on each firm's official website before purchasing a challenge. This is not financial advice. Updated 2026-03-08.