Traders choosing between FTMO and Topstep face a fundamental choice between strict rules with better profit splits versus flexible evaluation structures with lower initial payouts. FTMO operates on a traditional two-phase challenge system with daily loss limits and time constraints, while Topstep offers a single-phase evaluation with no daily loss limits or time restrictions. This comparison examines their evaluation requirements, trading rules, payout structures, and overall value proposition for different trading styles.
F
FTMO
Est. 2015 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.8
40,000 reviews
VS
7 wins
3 ties
4 wins
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
Feature
FTMO
Topstep
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%
No limit✓ No daily loss limit
Max Total Loss
10%
N/A
Min Trading Days
4 days✓ More flexible
5 days
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
No limit✓ No time limit
Payout Split
80% (up to 90%)✓ Higher starting split
50% (up to 90%)
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
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?
FTMO suits disciplined swing traders and scalpers who can handle strict daily loss limits in exchange for an 80% profit split and faster path to funding. The firm's 4-day minimum trading requirement and higher starting payout percentage make it attractive for consistent profitable traders who don't need the flexibility of unlimited time or daily drawdown.
Topstep works better for traders who need flexibility in their risk management approach, particularly those who occasionally take larger daily losses or need unlimited time to meet profit targets. However, the 50% starting profit split means traders need to generate significantly more profit to match FTMO's payouts initially.
For most traders, FTMO offers better value due to the 80% profit split and established track record with 40,000 Trustpilot reviews. Unless you specifically need Topstep's flexible daily loss structure, FTMO's combination of higher payouts and proven reliability makes it the stronger choice.
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.