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Updated 2026-03-08
Topstep vs Hantec Trader: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Topstep and Hantec Trader face a decision between an established single-phase evaluation versus a newer two-phase challenge system. The core trade-off centers on flexibility versus structure: Topstep eliminates daily loss limits and profit targets after funding, while Hantec Trader offers an 80% starting profit split but maintains stricter risk controls. Topstep's 12-year track record contrasts with Hantec Trader's recent 2023 launch, creating different risk profiles for traders seeking prop firm partnerships. This comparison examines evaluation requirements, payout structures, and trading conditions to help you determine which firm aligns with your trading style and risk tolerance.
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
VS
3 wins
4 ties
4 wins
HT
Hantec Trader
Est. 2023 · London, UK
4.5
500 reviews
Feature
Topstep
Hantec Trader
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$359
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
3 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
50% (up to 90%)
80% (up to 90%)✓ Higher starting 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
Hantec Trader
Pros
+Multiple program types available including instant funding with no challenge
+No time limits on Enhanced and EnhancedX challenge phases
+Competitive challenge prices starting at $59 for $10K accounts
+Up to 90% profit split available with add-ons
+Official UFC partner in APAC region
Cons
−Limited leverage capped at 1:50 across all instruments
−Maximum account size limited to $200K
−Instant funding program has high entry costs relative to account size
−EnhancedX program requires consistency score tracking
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
Topstep suits experienced traders who prefer maximum flexibility and can handle the pressure of a single-phase evaluation without daily loss limits. The lack of daily drawdown restrictions and immediate profit target elimination after funding makes it ideal for swing traders and those who occasionally take larger position sizes. Daily payouts and 12 years of operational history provide additional confidence for serious traders willing to accept the lower 50% starting profit split.
Hantec Trader better serves newer traders or those who prefer structured risk management with clear daily boundaries. The 80% starting profit split significantly outweighs Topstep's 50%, meaning you keep $800 versus $500 on every $1,000 profit initially. However, the 2023 founding date and limited 500 Trustpilot reviews create uncertainty about long-term reliability. Choose Hantec Trader if maximizing early profits matters more than operational track record, but understand you're betting on a largely unproven firm.
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 Hantec Trader if:
→Multiple program types available including instant funding with no challenge
→No time limits on Enhanced and EnhancedX challenge phases
→Competitive challenge prices starting at $59 for $10K 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.