The Funded Trader vs Topstep: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between The Funded Trader and Topstep face a decision between flexibility and established reputation. The Funded Trader offers more trading freedom with no minimum trading days and allows EA trading and news trading, while Topstep provides daily payouts and has built a stronger track record since 2012. This comparison examines their evaluation processes, trading rules, payout structures, and overall trader experience to help you determine which firm aligns with your trading style and goals.
TF
The Funded Trader
Est. 2021 · Fort Lauderdale, USA
3
22,000 reviews
VS
5 wins
4 ties
1 wins
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
Feature
The Funded Trader
Topstep
Challenge Price ($100K)
$489
N/A
Phase 1 Profit Target
8%
N/A
Min Trading Days
0 days✓ More flexible
5 days
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
N/A
50% (up to 90%)
Payout Frequency
anytime payouts
daily✓ Faster payouts
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
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?
The Funded Trader suits active traders who need maximum flexibility and use automated strategies. With zero minimum trading days, EA trading allowed, and news trading permitted, it's ideal for scalpers, news traders, and algorithm developers who want to trade without restrictions. The multiple platform options (MATCH-TRADER, DXTrade, cTrader) also give traders more choice in their trading environment.
Topstep better serves traditional discretionary traders who prioritize fast payouts and want an established firm. The daily payout frequency beats The Funded Trader's standard schedule, and the 4.4/5 Trustpilot rating from 14,000 reviews shows stronger trader satisfaction compared to The Funded Trader's 3/5 from 22,000 reviews. For conservative traders who value reputation over flexibility, Topstep's 12-year track record provides more confidence.
Bottom line: Choose The Funded Trader if you're an experienced trader who needs trading flexibility and automation capabilities. Choose Topstep if you're a discretionary trader who values established reputation and wants the fastest possible payouts.
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 Topstep if:
→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
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.