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Updated 2026-03-08
FTMO vs Phidias PropFirm: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between FTMO and Phidias PropFirm face a decision between an established industry leader and a newer firm offering more flexible rules. The most striking difference is Phidias PropFirm's single-phase evaluation at half the cost ($273 vs $540 for $100K) with no daily loss limits or time restrictions, while FTMO requires a traditional two-phase challenge with stricter risk parameters. This comparison examines their evaluation processes, trading rules, costs, and reliability to help you determine which firm aligns with your trading style and risk management approach.
F
FTMO
Est. 2015 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.8
40,000 reviews
VS
4 wins
3 ties
7 wins
PP
Phidias PropFirm
Est. 2023 · N/A
4.3
500 reviews
Feature
FTMO
Phidias PropFirm
Challenge Price ($100K)
$540
$273✓ Lower entry cost
Phase 1 Profit Target
10%
N/A
Phase 2 Profit Target
5%
None (single-phase)✓ Single-phase evaluation
Max Daily Loss
5%
No limit✓ No daily loss limit
Max Total Loss
10%
N/A
Min Trading Days
4 days
3 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
No limit✓ No time limit
Payout Split
80% (up to 90%)✓ Higher profit split
80%
FTMO
Pros
+Most established and trusted brand in prop trading (est. 2015)
+Free retry policy if profit target met but other rule breached
+Strong payout track record — $500M+ total paid to traders
+Performance coaching and FTMO Academy included
Cons
−News trading restricted (2 min buffer around major events)
−Higher challenge prices than most competitors at same account sizes
−Scaling plan slower than rivals (25% increase every 4 months)
−Maximum initial allocation capped at $200K before scaling
Phidias PropFirm
Pros
+Specializes exclusively in futures trading with access to CME Group markets
+Copy trading allowed across up to 15 funded accounts for scaling strategies
+Swing trading permitted with overnight and overweek position holding
+Fast funding path - can be funded in just 3 days with live access after 3 payouts
+Daily payouts available on live accounts with no restrictions or limits
Cons
−Limited to futures only - no forex, stocks, or other asset classes
−Relatively new firm established in 2023 with shorter track record
−Higher monthly subscription fees compared to one-time payment options
−Limited account size options compared to other prop firms
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
FTMO suits disciplined traders who can work within structured parameters and value proven reliability over flexibility. With 9 years in operation and 40,000 Trustpilot reviews averaging 4.8/5, FTMO offers the security of an established firm plus better profit splits (up to 90%) and account scaling opportunities. The two-phase evaluation, while more expensive and restrictive, has proven sustainable for the firm and profitable for thousands of traders.
Phidias PropFirm is better for flexible traders, scalpers, and news traders who need freedom from daily loss limits and time constraints. At $273 for a $100K challenge with no daily drawdown limits and unlimited time, it's particularly attractive for swing traders or those who struggle with FTMO's 5% daily loss rule. However, with only 500 reviews since 2023, you're trading reliability for flexibility. For experienced traders comfortable with newer firms, Phidias PropFirm offers significantly more favorable evaluation terms.
Choose FTMO if:
→Most established and trusted brand in prop trading (est. 2015)
→Free retry policy if profit target met but other rule breached
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.