Apex Trader Funding vs E8 Markets: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Apex Trader Funding and E8 Markets face a decision between two radically different evaluation approaches. Apex offers a 100% profit split with traditional time constraints, while E8 Markets provides unlimited time for evaluation but takes a 20% cut of profits. Both firms launched in 2021 and maintain strong Trustpilot ratings, though they differ significantly in their challenge structures and scaling potential. This comparison examines their evaluation requirements, profit splits, platform offerings, and long-term growth opportunities to help traders identify the better fit for their trading style.
AT
Apex Trader Funding
Est. 2021 · Austin, USA
4.4
18,000 reviews
VS
2 wins
5 ties
3 wins
EM
E8 Markets
Est. 2021 · N/A
4.5
3,200 reviews
Feature
Apex Trader Funding
E8 Markets
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$260
Phase 1 Profit Target
6%
6%
Max Total Loss
4%
N/A
Min Trading Days
1 days
None✓ No minimum
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
No limit✓ No time limit
Payout Split
100%✓ Higher profit split
80%
Payout Frequency
every 5 trading days
N/A
Platforms
NinjaTrader, Rithmic, Tradovate, Wealthcharts✓ More platform options
N/A
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
E8 Markets
Pros
+Over $69 million paid out to traders since 2021
+Simulated trading environment with no margin calls or deposits required
+Fast payout qualification possible in as little as 3 days
+Multiple markets available: Forex, Futures, and Crypto
+Money back guarantee if unsatisfied before starting trading
Cons
−Payouts are discretionary and not guaranteed
−Limited account size options compared to other firms
−SaaS simulation model rather than live capital trading
−Requires E8's acceptance and licensing of performance data for payouts
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
E8 Markets suits traders who need flexibility and long-term growth potential, particularly those who struggle with time pressure or want to scale beyond typical account limits. The unlimited evaluation time and $1,000,000 scaling potential outweigh the 20% profit cut for most developing traders, especially given the $260 challenge cost for $100K accounts.
Apex Trader Funding works better for experienced traders who can consistently perform under time constraints and want to keep 100% of their profits. The 30-day limit and minimum trading day requirement favor active traders who don't need extended evaluation periods. However, the lack of scaling options limits long-term earning potential compared to E8 Markets.
For most traders, E8 Markets offers the better deal. The unlimited time removes evaluation pressure, the scaling potential provides a clear growth path, and the 80% profit split still beats most traditional prop firms. Only consistently profitable traders who value immediate maximum payouts should choose Apex's time-pressured evaluation for the 100% split.
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 E8 Markets if:
→Over $69 million paid out to traders since 2021
→Simulated trading environment with no margin calls or deposits required
→Fast payout qualification possible in as little as 3 days
→Multiple markets available: Forex, Futures, and Crypto
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.