Topstep vs City Traders Imperium: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Topstep and City Traders Imperium face a decision between an established Chicago-based futures specialist and a London-based firm offering more flexible trading conditions. The most significant differences lie in profit splits—City Traders Imperium offers 80% starting splits versus Topstep's 50%—and payout frequency, where Topstep provides daily payouts compared to weekly. This comparison examines trading rules, evaluation requirements, profit sharing structures, and platform options to help determine which firm aligns better with your trading style and goals.
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
VS
1 wins
5 ties
6 wins
CT
City Traders Imperium
Est. 2018 · London, UK
4.2
1,500 reviews
Feature
Topstep
City Traders Imperium
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$412
Phase 1 Profit Target
N/A
8%
Max Total Loss
N/A
5%
Min Trading Days
5 days
3 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
50% (up to 90%)
80% (up to 100%)✓ Higher profit split
Payout Frequency
daily✓ Faster payouts
weekly
Platforms
N/A
MT5, Match-Trader✓ More platform options
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
City Traders Imperium
Pros
+Multiple account types: 1-step, 2-step challenges, and instant funding options
+Unlimited time limits on challenges with no expiration dates
+Up to 100% profit share available through VIP program progression
+Free access to CTI Academy educational content with all accounts
+24/7 multilingual customer support with 1-hour first response time
Cons
−No refunds available once any trading activity occurs on the account
−Limited information about specific trading instruments and leverage ratios
−Relatively high instant funding fees compared to challenge options
−VIP benefits require meeting specific performance criteria
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
City Traders Imperium suits active traders who prioritize higher profit splits and flexible trading conditions. With an 80% starting payout split (scaling to 100%), only 3 minimum trading days, and unrestricted news trading, it offers better terms for scalpers and news traders willing to accept weekly payouts.
Topstep better serves traders who value established reputation and need immediate access to profits. Its daily payout frequency and 12-year track record with 14,000 Trustpilot reviews provide more certainty, though the 50% starting profit split significantly reduces earnings potential.
For most active traders, City Traders Imperium offers superior value despite being newer. The 30% higher starting profit split and more flexible rules outweigh Topstep's faster payouts, especially for traders comfortable with weekly withdrawals.
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
Choose City Traders Imperium if:
→Multiple account types: 1-step, 2-step challenges, and instant funding options
→Unlimited time limits on challenges with no expiration dates
→Up to 100% profit share available through VIP program progression
→Free access to CTI Academy educational content with all accounts
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.