Apex Trader Funding vs Topstep: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Choosing between Apex Trader Funding and Topstep comes down to whether you prioritize immediate profit retention or flexible evaluation timelines. Apex offers 100% profit splits from day one, while Topstep removes time pressure with unlimited Phase 1 duration but starts you at just 50% profit sharing. Both firms maintain identical 4.4/5 Trustpilot ratings, though they serve different trading styles and risk tolerances. This comparison examines their evaluation structures, payout policies, and platform offerings to help you determine which aligns with your trading approach.
AT
Apex Trader Funding
Est. 2021 · Austin, USA
4.4
18,000 reviews
VS
3 wins
4 ties
2 wins
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
Feature
Apex Trader Funding
Topstep
Phase 1 Profit Target
6%
N/A
Max Total Loss
4%
N/A
Min Trading Days
1 days✓ More flexible
5 days
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
No limit✓ No time limit
Payout Split
100%✓ Higher profit split
50% (up to 90%)
Payout Frequency
every 5 trading days
daily✓ Faster payouts
Platforms
NinjaTrader, Rithmic, Tradovate, Wealthcharts✓ More platform options
N/A
Free Retry
No
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
Topstep
Pros
+Performance-based capital release structure with 20% initial access scaling to full balance
+Daily payout eligibility after 30 benchmark trading days with up to 90% profit split
+Performance bonus program offering over $250,000 in cash bonuses for consistent traders
+Dynamic risk expansion that adjusts daily loss limits as account balance grows
+Live Funded Account structure designed to help transition from simulated to live trading
Cons
−Must maintain account balance above $0 at all times or forfeit account
−Initial payout split limited to 50% until reaching 30 benchmark trading days
−Account automatically closed if inactive for 90 days
−All positions must be closed by 3:10 PM CT daily
−Protective stops required on every open position
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
Apex Trader Funding suits aggressive traders who want maximum profit retention and flexible evaluation schedules. With 100% profit splits, 1-day minimum trading requirements, and multiple platform options including NinjaTrader and Tradovate, it caters to experienced traders who can perform under 30-day time constraints. The trade-off is significant pressure to meet targets quickly.
Topstep works better for methodical traders who prefer sustainable, long-term development over maximum immediate profits. The unlimited Phase 1 timeline eliminates evaluation pressure, while daily payouts provide steady income flow. However, starting at 50% profit splits means lower initial earnings potential. For traders prioritizing profit maximization and platform flexibility, choose Apex Trader Funding. For those valuing stress-free evaluation and consistent payouts, Topstep offers the better path.
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 Topstep if:
→Performance-based capital release structure with 20% initial access scaling to full balance
→Daily payout eligibility after 30 benchmark trading days with up to 90% profit split
→Performance bonus program offering over $250,000 in cash bonuses for consistent traders
→Dynamic risk expansion that adjusts daily loss limits as account balance grows
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.