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Updated 2026-03-08
FTMO vs SFX Funded: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Choosing between FTMO and SFX Funded comes down to whether you prioritize proven reliability or simplified evaluation processes. FTMO's two-phase challenge offers more trading room with 5% daily loss limits and 10% total drawdown, while SFX Funded eliminates time pressure with its single-phase, unlimited-time evaluation. This comparison breaks down the key trading rules, costs, and practical differences that will determine which firm better matches your trading style and risk tolerance.
F
FTMO
Est. 2015 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.8
40,000 reviews
VS
7 wins
4 ties
3 wins
SF
SFX Funded
Est. 2023 · N/A
4
200 reviews
Feature
FTMO
SFX Funded
Challenge Price ($100K)
$540
N/A
Phase 1 Profit Target
10%
N/A
Phase 2 Profit Target
5%
None (single-phase)✓ Single-phase evaluation
Max Daily Loss
5%✓ More daily loss room
3%
Max Total Loss
10%✓ More drawdown room
6%
Min Trading Days
4 days
None✓ No minimum
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
No limit✓ No time limit
Payout Split
80% (up to 90%)
N/A
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
SFX Funded
Pros
+Offers up to 100% profit split to traders
+Challenge fees are 100% refundable
+Multiple account size options from $5,000 to $250,000
+Bi-weekly payout frequency
Cons
−Limited information available about trading rules and policies
−Relatively new firm established in 2023
−Lower leverage at 1:30 compared to many competitors
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
FTMO suits experienced traders who need maximum trading flexibility and can handle structured evaluation phases. With 5% daily loss limits versus SFX Funded's 3%, and 10% total drawdown versus 6%, FTMO gives aggressive traders and scalpers significantly more room to operate. The firm's 9-year track record and 40,000+ Trustpilot reviews provide the credibility that serious traders require when committing to a prop firm.
SFX Funded works better for conservative traders who prefer simplified processes over maximum trading room. The single-phase evaluation removes the complexity of managing multiple profit targets, and the unlimited time limit eliminates the pressure of 30-day deadlines. However, the much tighter risk parameters (3% daily loss, 6% total drawdown) and minimal review history make this suitable only for low-frequency traders who prioritize evaluation simplicity over trading flexibility.
For most traders, FTMO offers the superior combination of proven reliability, reasonable costs, and trading room that matters in real market conditions. The tighter rules at SFX Funded may seem trader-friendly on paper, but they significantly limit your ability to navigate volatile markets effectively.
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.