ATFunded vs Topstep - Prop Firm Comparison
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Introduction
When comparing prop trading firms, ATFunded and Topstep each offer distinct paths to funded trading. ATFunded is UAE (ATFX-backed)-based, founded in 2025, and is known for ATFX-backed institutional backing, Low entry from $25. It holds a Not yet rated Trustpilot rating. Topstep, based in Chicago, Illinois, USA, was founded in 2012 and stands out for Industry pioneer since 2012 – invented the evaluation model, 100% of first $10K profits, holding a 3.4/5 (13,872 reviews) Trustpilot rating. Both firms provide paths to funded accounts, but their evaluation structures, pricing, and trader benefits differ in key ways that may suit different trader profiles.
Quick Facts
| Feature | ATFunded | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| 
| |
| Founded | 2025-01 | 2012 |
| Profit Split | 80% (2-Phase from day 1); 50-80% (Pro Program) | 100% first $10,000, then 90/10 |
| Maximum Account Size | $200,000 | $150,000 |
| Evaluation Phases | 2-Phase Challenge or Pro Program (1-step) | 1 |
| Trustpilot Rating | — | 3.4 |
| Expert Grade | 7 | 9 |
Program Types
| Program | ATFunded | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level Program | 2-Phase Challenge | Yes |
| Advanced Program | Pro Program | — |
| Scaling Options | Yes | No |
| Demo Account | Yes | No |
Rules & Assessment
| Criteria | ATFunded | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Profit Target | 8% Phase 1, 5% Phase 2 (2-Phase); 10% (Pro) | 6% |
| Maximum Drawdown | 10% (2-Phase); Trailing (Pro) | Trailing MLL: $2,000-$4,500 |
| Minimum Trading Days | — | 5 |
| News Trading | Yes | Yes |
Fees & Pricing
| Option | ATFunded | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| CFD $10K Account | USD 50 / Listed challenge / One-time | Not offered |
| CFD $25K Account | USD 99 / Listed challenge / One-time | Not offered |
| CFD $50K Account | USD 149 / Listed challenge / One-time | Not offered |
| CFD $100K Account | USD 249 / Listed challenge / One-time | Not offered |
| CFD $200K Account | USD 499 / Listed challenge / One-time | Not offered |
| Futures $50K Account | Not offered | USD 49 / Trading Combine / Monthly |
| Futures $100K Account | Not offered | USD 99 / Trading Combine / Monthly |
| Futures $150K Account | Not offered | USD 149 / Trading Combine / Monthly |
| Coupons / Discount | ATFunded discount | Topstep discount |
Platforms & Markets
| Feature | ATFunded | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Platforms | MT5 | TopstepX |
| Forex | Yes | Yes |
| Stocks | Yes | No |
| Indices | — | Yes |
| Commodities | — | Yes |
| Cryptocurrencies | Yes | No |
| Bonds | — | Yes |
| EA/Algo Trading | Yes | Yes |
Payout
| Feature | ATFunded | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Payout Terms | Bank Transfer, Cryptocurrency, ATFX Brokerage Account transfer; bi-weekly processing; 3-5 business days | Bi-weekly via ACH, wire, or Rise; $50 minimum |
| See all prop firm payouts → | ||
Verdict
| Key Element | ATFunded | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Strengths | ATFX-backed regulation adds credibility, Fees from $25, 80% split from day one (2-Phase), No time limits on evaluation, EAs and automation permitted, Same-day payout processing reported | Industry pioneer, generous first $10K profit split, no time limits, EAs permitted, no daily loss limit, $1B+ paid to traders |
| Weaknesses | MT5 only, Very new firm (January 2025), Pro Program starts at 50% split, No weekend crypto trading, Max 5 trades per symbol limit, Only 65+ Trustpilot reviews, Daily drawdown on balance not equity | Monthly subscription fees compound, $149 activation fee, TopstepX platform exclusive, futures-only, trailing MLL can catch intraday profit-takers |
| Best For | Traders seeking low-cost entry with high profit splits and EA support | Serious futures traders seeking established firm with forgiving evaluation |
FAQ
What makes ATFunded stand out among prop firms?
ATFunded, based in UAE (ATFX-backed), was founded in 2025 and is best known for atfx-backed institutional backing, low entry from $25. With a minimum evaluation cost of $25 and a 80% profit split, it offers a developing value proposition for traders who want atfx-backed funding.
How does Topstep differ from other prop firms?
Topstep, based in Chicago, Illinois, USA and founded in 2012, differentiates itself through Industry pioneer since 2012 – invented the evaluation model, 100% of first $10K profits. With a 100% first $10K, then 90% profit split and 1-Step (Trading Combine®) evaluation, it is particularly suited to futures traders who want the most established firm.
Which firm offers better payouts – ATFunded or Topstep?
ATFunded offers a 80% profit split with Bi-weekly payouts processed in 1-3 days. Topstep offers a 100% first $10K, then 90% profit split with Bi-weekly (daily after 30 winning days) payouts in 1-3 days. The better choice depends on whether you prioritise split percentage or payout frequency.
Are these prop firms suitable for beginners?
Both firms can accommodate beginners, but with different considerations. ATFunded is best suited to Traders who want ATFX-backed funding, while Topstep is better aligned with futures traders who want the most established firm. New traders should start with the smallest available account size and thoroughly review all rules before committing.
What happens if I fail the evaluation at either firm?
Most prop firms allow traders to purchase a reset to restart their evaluation phase, typically at 40-50% of the original fee. Neither firm penalises future attempts based on previous failures. Check each firm’s official site for current reset pricing and terms.
How was this Comparison Created?
1. We Collect
Our research team gathered data directly from the official websites, terms of service documents, and public communications of both ATFunded and Topstep. We supplemented this with verified user reviews on Trustpilot and trading community forums, and consulted active traders with first-hand experience at each firm.
2. We Examine
Our team of professional traders verified all information, cross-checking accuracy against each firm’s current platform, evaluation parameters, and pricing pages. Special attention was paid to profit split structures, drawdown rules, and payout conditions to ensure our assessment reflects the real trader experience.
3. We Score
We apply a scoring methodology across seven key categories: evaluation structure, trading conditions, costs and fees, platform quality, profit potential, customer support, and educational resources. Each category is weighted by importance to traders at different experience levels.
4. You Choose
This comparison is designed to help you identify which firm better aligns with your trading style, experience level, and goals. Consider your priorities – evaluation flexibility, profit split, platform preference, and firm track record – then visit each firm’s full review on JoinProp for the complete picture. Read the ATFunded review or read the Topstep review to go deeper.
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