Traders choosing between Topstep and E8 Markets face a decision between an established futures-focused firm and a newer multi-asset challenger. Topstep's decade-plus track record and daily payouts contrast sharply with E8 Markets' no minimum trading days and million-dollar scaling potential. This comparison examines the key differences in evaluation requirements, profit splits, payout structures, and platform options to help determine which firm better matches your trading style and goals.
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
VS
2 wins
3 ties
3 wins
EM
E8 Markets
Est. 2021 · N/A
4.5
3,200 reviews
Feature
Topstep
E8 Markets
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$260
Phase 1 Profit Target
N/A
6%
Min Trading Days
5 days
None✓ No minimum
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
50% (up to 90%)✓ Higher profit split
80%
Payout Frequency
daily✓ Faster payouts
N/A
Platforms
N/A
N/A✓ More platform options
Max Account (Scaling)
N/A
$1,000,000✓ Scaling available
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
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 active traders who want immediate market access and aggressive scaling opportunities. With no minimum trading days and the ability to scale accounts up to $1,000,000, it's ideal for confident traders who can consistently hit the 6% Phase 1 target and want to maximize their earning potential quickly.
Topstep better serves traders who prioritize reliable, frequent payouts and prefer a proven track record. The daily payout frequency and profit split progression up to 90% make it attractive for consistent profit generators who value cash flow reliability over maximum account size. Given Topstep's 12-year operating history versus E8's 3 years, risk-averse traders should lean toward Topstep despite the 5-day minimum trading requirement.
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 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.