City Traders Imperium vs Lux Trading Firm: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Choosing between City Traders Imperium and Lux Trading Firm comes down to whether you prioritize lower entry costs or better profit-sharing terms. City Traders Imperium charges $412 for their $100K challenge but offers an easier 8% Phase 1 target and profit splits up to 100%, while Lux Trading Firm costs just $260 but requires a steeper 10% profit target with an 80% split cap. Both London-based firms have solid reputations, but they cater to different trading styles and budgets. This comparison breaks down their key differences across pricing, rules, and trader benefits to help you decide which prop firm aligns with your strategy.
CT
City Traders Imperium
Est. 2018 · London, UK
4.2
1,500 reviews
VS
5 wins
1 ties
6 wins
LT
Lux Trading Firm
Est. 2021 · London, UK
4
1,000 reviews
Feature
City Traders Imperium
Lux Trading Firm
Challenge Price ($100K)
$412
$260✓ Lower entry cost
Phase 1 Profit Target
8%✓ Easier to pass
10%
Max Total Loss
5%
6%✓ More drawdown room
Min Trading Days
3 days
0 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
80% (up to 100%)✓ Higher profit split
80%
Payout Frequency
weekly✓ Faster payouts
instant
Platforms
MT5, Match-Trader
MT5, The Lux Trader, MatchTrader✓ More platform options
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
Lux Trading Firm
Pros
+Offers the largest account sizes in the industry up to $10,000,000
+1-stage evaluation process with instant funding available
+100% evaluation fee refund after passing first stage
+Instant withdrawals with no fixed payout cycles
+Real A-book execution with direct liquidity provider partnership
Cons
−Complex risk consistency rules requiring fixed percentage allocation per trade
−High-frequency trading and automated EAs strictly prohibited
−Single trade profit limited to 5% of profit target per stage
−Higher evaluation fees compared to many competitors
−Static 6% drawdown limit that doesn't move with account growth
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
City Traders Imperium suits experienced traders who can justify the higher entry cost for better long-term earning potential. The 8% Phase 1 target is significantly more achievable than Lux's 10%, and the profit split scaling up to 100% means serious money for consistent performers. News traders will particularly favor CTI since they allow trading during major economic releases, while Lux restricts this.
Lux Trading Firm is the better choice for budget-conscious traders or those testing multiple prop firms simultaneously. At $260 versus $412, you can afford to take more shots at funded accounts, and the 6% total drawdown gives you more breathing room than CTI's 5%. The zero minimum trading days also suits patient swing traders who don't want to be forced into positions.
For most traders, City Traders Imperium offers better value despite the higher upfront cost. The easier profit target and superior payout structure outweigh the $152 price difference, especially since you only need to pass once to access the better terms long-term.
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
Choose Lux Trading Firm if:
→Offers the largest account sizes in the industry up to $10,000,000
→1-stage evaluation process with instant funding available
→100% evaluation fee refund after passing first stage
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.