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Updated 2026-03-08
SFX Funded vs AquaFunded: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between SFX Funded and AquaFunded face a decision between structure and flexibility. SFX Funded offers a streamlined single-phase evaluation process, while AquaFunded provides more generous drawdown limits (10% total vs 6%) and multiple platform options including MT5, MatchTrade, TradeLocker, and cTrader. Both firms launched in 2023 with solid Trustpilot ratings, but their approaches to risk management and trading restrictions differ significantly. This comparison examines their key differences in evaluation structure, risk parameters, and trading conditions to help you determine which better suits your trading style.
SF
SFX Funded
Est. 2023 · N/A
4
200 reviews
VS
1 wins
5 ties
7 wins
A
AquaFunded
Est. 2023 · N/A
4.3
200 reviews
Feature
SFX Funded
AquaFunded
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$283
Phase 1 Profit Target
N/A
10%
Phase 2 Profit Target
None (single-phase)✓ Single-phase evaluation
5%
Max Daily Loss
3%
5%✓ More daily loss room
Max Total Loss
6%
10%✓ More drawdown room
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
N/A
90% (up to 100%)
Payout Frequency
bi-weekly
bi-weekly
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
AquaFunded
Pros
+Instant funding option available to skip evaluation challenges
+Up to 100% profit split with payout on demand
+No time limits on challenges — trade at your own pace
+Reward guarantee with 24-hour payout or $1000 compensation
Cons
−Relatively new firm (founded 2023) with limited track record
−Lower Trustpilot review count compared to established competitors
−Some account sizes show higher daily loss limits (5%) vs 3% standard
−Instant funding requires higher fees than challenge models
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
AquaFunded emerges as the better choice for most traders, particularly those who need breathing room in their risk management. With 5% daily loss limits versus SFX Funded's 3%, and 10% total drawdown compared to just 6%, AquaFunded gives traders significantly more space to weather market volatility. The firm also supports news trading and offers four different platforms, making it suitable for scalpers, news traders, and those who prefer specific trading software.
SFX Funded's single-phase evaluation gives it an edge for traders who want to skip the typical two-phase process, but this advantage is undermined by the tight risk parameters and limited platform options. AquaFunded's $283 challenge fee for a $100K account, combined with up to 100% profit splits and fewer trading restrictions, makes it the superior option for serious traders who prioritize flexibility and reasonable risk management rules over evaluation convenience.
Choose SFX Funded if:
→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
Choose AquaFunded if:
→Instant funding option available to skip evaluation challenges
→Up to 100% profit split with payout on demand
→No time limits on challenges — trade at your own pace
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.