E8 Markets vs City Traders Imperium: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between E8 Markets and City Traders Imperium face a decision between affordability and advanced features. E8 Markets offers a significantly cheaper entry point at $260 for a $100K challenge compared to City Traders Imperium's $412, while also requiring a lower 6% profit target versus 8%. However, City Traders Imperium provides weekly payouts and allows news trading, features that E8 Markets lacks. This comparison examines the key differences in pricing, challenge requirements, trading rules, and payout structures to help determine which firm better matches your trading style and budget.
EM
E8 Markets
Est. 2021 · N/A
4.5
3,200 reviews
VS
3 wins
3 ties
6 wins
CT
City Traders Imperium
Est. 2018 · London, UK
4.2
1,500 reviews
Feature
E8 Markets
City Traders Imperium
Challenge Price ($100K)
$260✓ Lower entry cost
$412
Phase 1 Profit Target
6%✓ Easier to pass
8%
Max Total Loss
N/A
5%
Min Trading Days
None✓ No minimum
3 days
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
80%
80% (up to 100%)✓ Higher profit split
Payout Frequency
N/A
weekly✓ Faster payouts
Platforms
N/A
MT5, Match-Trader✓ More platform options
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
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?
E8 Markets suits budget-conscious traders and beginners who want the easiest path to funding. With 58% lower entry costs ($260 vs $412), a 6% profit target instead of 8%, and no minimum trading days requirement, it removes many barriers that stop traders from succeeding. The 4.5/5 Trustpilot rating from 3,200 reviews also indicates strong trader satisfaction.
City Traders Imperium is better for experienced traders who need advanced features and faster access to profits. The weekly payout schedule, news trading permissions, and scaling up to 100% profit splits make it ideal for active traders who can easily meet the 8% profit target. London-based regulation and longer track record since 2018 add credibility.
For most traders starting their prop firm journey, E8 Markets offers the better value proposition. The $152 savings and easier profit targets outweigh City Traders Imperium's premium features, especially when you're still proving you can be consistently profitable.
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
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.