Topstep vs Funded Trading Plus: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Topstep and Funded Trading Plus face a decision between two fundamentally different evaluation approaches. Topstep operates a single-phase challenge with no daily loss limits, while Funded Trading Plus uses a traditional two-phase model with 5% daily drawdown restrictions. This comparison examines their evaluation structures, payout terms, trading rules, and overall suitability for different trading styles. Both firms offer legitimate funded trading opportunities but cater to distinctly different trader profiles.
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
VS
3 wins
5 ties
6 wins
FT
Funded Trading Plus
Est. 2021 · London, UK
4.7
3,000 reviews
Feature
Topstep
Funded Trading Plus
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$549
Phase 1 Profit Target
N/A
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
5 days
None✓ No minimum
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
50% (up to 90%)
80% (up to 100%)✓ Higher profit split
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
Funded Trading Plus
Pros
+Multiple challenge types: Instant Funding, 1-Step, and 2-Step options
+Fast weekly reward frequency starting from day 0
+No monthly fees with transparent pricing structure
+News trading allowed and weekend holding permitted
+Swap-free accounts available with no virtual charges for overnight positions
Cons
−Lower leverage at 1:30 compared to many competitors
−Limited account size options shown with pricing
−Add-on features require additional 15% fees each
−Relatively new firm established in 2021
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
Topstep suits swing traders and those who prefer flexibility over profit potential. Its single-phase evaluation eliminates the pressure of hitting a second profit target, and the absence of daily loss limits accommodates larger position sizes and overnight holds. However, the 50% starting profit split significantly reduces earning potential compared to competitors.
Funded Trading Plus better serves active day traders and scalpers who can work within daily limits. The 80% profit split delivers substantially higher earnings—on a $100k account, this difference means $800 versus $500 per $1,000 in profits. While the 5% daily loss limit requires disciplined risk management, most successful day traders operate well within these parameters anyway.
For profit-focused traders who can maintain consistent risk management, Funded Trading Plus offers superior earning potential. Topstep works for traders who prioritize evaluation simplicity over maximum profitability, but the profit split disadvantage is difficult to justify unless daily loss limits are genuinely problematic for your strategy.
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 Funded Trading Plus if:
→Multiple challenge types: Instant Funding, 1-Step, and 2-Step options
→Fast weekly reward frequency starting from day 0
→No monthly fees with transparent pricing structure
→News trading allowed and weekend holding permitted
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.