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Updated 2026-03-08
The Funded Trader vs AquaFunded: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Choosing between The Funded Trader and AquaFunded comes down to whether you prioritize easier evaluation rules or lower costs. The Funded Trader offers a single-phase evaluation with an 8% profit target and no daily loss limits, while AquaFunded cuts the entry cost nearly in half at $283 for a $100K account but requires a two-phase evaluation with stricter rules. This comparison examines their challenge structures, trading conditions, and overall value proposition to help you determine which firm aligns with your trading style and budget.
TF
The Funded Trader
Est. 2021 · Fort Lauderdale, USA
3
22,000 reviews
VS
3 wins
5 ties
6 wins
A
AquaFunded
Est. 2023 · N/A
4.3
200 reviews
Feature
The Funded Trader
AquaFunded
Challenge Price ($100K)
$489
$283✓ Lower entry cost
Phase 1 Profit Target
8%✓ Easier to pass
10%
Phase 2 Profit Target
None (single-phase)✓ Single-phase evaluation
5%
Max Daily Loss
No limit✓ No daily loss limit
5%
Max Total Loss
N/A
10%
Min Trading Days
0 days
None✓ No minimum
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
N/A
90% (up to 100%)
The Funded Trader
Pros
+Multiple challenge types including one-step and three-step evaluations
+High maximum funding allocation up to $2.5M across different challenges
+VIP program offering up to 95% payout split
+News trading allowed on most challenges
+Fast payout eligibility in as little as 7 days on some challenges
Cons
−Simulated trading environment only, not real money trading
−Limited account size options shown in comparison table
−Proprietary technology monitoring may restrict some trading styles
−Maximum concurrent funded account limit of $600K
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 is the better choice for cost-conscious traders willing to navigate stricter rules, while The Funded Trader suits traders who prefer simplified evaluation conditions despite higher upfront costs. AquaFunded's $283 entry fee is 42% cheaper than The Funded Trader's $489, making it accessible for traders with limited capital. However, you'll face a 5% daily loss limit and two-phase evaluation with 10% then 5% profit targets.
The Funded Trader wins for traders who struggle with daily loss limits or prefer straightforward evaluations. With no daily drawdown restrictions and a single 8% profit target, it removes common failure points that trip up many traders. The trade-off is paying $206 more upfront and dealing with lower Trustpilot ratings (3.0/5 vs 4.3/5).
For most traders, AquaFunded offers better overall value. The cost savings and higher user satisfaction ratings outweigh the stricter rules, especially since disciplined traders can manage the 5% daily loss limit effectively.
Choose The Funded Trader if:
→Multiple challenge types including one-step and three-step evaluations
→High maximum funding allocation up to $2.5M across different challenges
→VIP program offering up to 95% payout split
→News trading allowed on most challenges
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.