The Funded Trader vs E8 Markets: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between The Funded Trader and E8 Markets face a decision between proven track record and competitive pricing. E8 Markets offers significantly lower entry costs at $260 versus $489 for a $100K challenge and requires only a 6% profit target compared to The Funded Trader's 8%. Both firms launched in 2021, but they differ substantially in platform options, trading restrictions, and community feedback. This comparison examines the key factors that determine which firm aligns better with your trading style and budget constraints.
TF
The Funded Trader
Est. 2021 · Fort Lauderdale, USA
3
22,000 reviews
VS
4 wins
3 ties
3 wins
EM
E8 Markets
Est. 2021 · N/A
4.5
3,200 reviews
Feature
The Funded Trader
E8 Markets
Challenge Price ($100K)
$489
$260✓ Lower entry cost
Phase 1 Profit Target
8%
6%✓ Easier to pass
Min Trading Days
0 days
None✓ No minimum
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
N/A
80%
Payout Frequency
anytime payouts
N/A
Platforms
MATCH-TRADER, DXTrade, cTrader✓ More platform options
N/A
News Trading
Allowed✓ Fewer restrictions
N/A
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
E8 Markets
Pros
+Over $69 million paid out to traders since 2021
+Simulated trading environment with no margin calls or deposits required
+Fast payout qualification possible in as little as 3 days
+Multiple markets available: Forex, Futures, and Crypto
+Money back guarantee if unsatisfied before starting trading
Cons
−Payouts are discretionary and not guaranteed
−Limited account size options compared to other firms
−SaaS simulation model rather than live capital trading
−Requires E8's acceptance and licensing of performance data for payouts
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
E8 Markets suits cost-conscious traders and beginners who prefer lower barriers to entry, with its $260 challenge fee being 47% cheaper than The Funded Trader's $489 and requiring only a 6% profit target versus 8%. The firm's 4.5/5 Trustpilot rating from 3,200 reviews suggests strong trader satisfaction, though the smaller sample size means less proven longevity.
The Funded Trader better serves experienced traders who need platform flexibility and fewer trading restrictions, offering MATCH-TRADER, DXTrade, and cTrader while allowing news trading without limitations. Despite its lower 3/5 Trustpilot rating, the 22,000 reviews demonstrate extensive real-world usage and transparency about both positive and negative experiences.
For most traders starting their prop firm journey, E8 Markets provides the better value proposition with lower costs and easier profit targets, making it the recommended choice unless you specifically need The Funded Trader's platform variety or unrestricted news trading capabilities.
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 E8 Markets if:
→Over $69 million paid out to traders since 2021
→Simulated trading environment with no margin calls or deposits required
→Fast payout qualification possible in as little as 3 days
→Multiple markets available: Forex, Futures, and Crypto
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.