FTMO vs TopStep - Elite Prop Firms Comparison
Introduction
FTMO and TopStep are two leading proprietary trading evaluation platforms designed to help aspiring futures traders gain access to funded trading accounts. FTMO offers flexible evaluation programs with various account sizes and competitive pricing structures, focusing on providing traders with clear pathways to funding. TopStep, founded in 2012, is one of the most established names in the trader funding industry, offering a comprehensive Trading Combine® evaluation system with educational resources and coaching support. On Trustpilot, TopStep maintains a rating of approximately 4.4/5 from over 2,000 reviews, while FTMO is a newer platform still building its review portfolio. Both platforms cater to futures traders seeking to prove their skills and trade with substantial capital without risking their own money.
Quick Comparison
|
| Feature |
FTMO |
TopStep |
|
 |
 |
| Founded |
2015 |
2012 |
| Trustpilot Rating |
Not in JoinProp review (defer) |
3.5/5 (14,053 reviews) |
| Account Sizes |
$10K – $200K (scales to $2M) |
$50K – $150K |
| Profit Split |
Up to 90% |
Up to 100% (first $5K), then 90% |
| Evaluation Style |
One or Two-Step Challenge |
Trading Combine® |
| Review |
Read full review |
Read full review |
Program Types – Which experience fits your goals?
|
| Program |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Standard Evaluation |
Two-Step Challenge with profit targets and drawdown limits |
Trading Combine® – 14-day minimum evaluation period |
| Express Options |
One-Step Challenge available for faster funding |
Express Combine® available with accelerated timeline |
| Practice/Demo |
Demo accounts available before purchase |
Free trial available to test platform |
| Educational Support |
Basic trading resources and guidelines |
Comprehensive coaching, webinars, and educational content |
| Account Scaling |
Available based on consistent performance |
Step-Up Program allows account growth to $250K+ |
Assessment Criteria – How can you pass the test?
|
| Criteria |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Profit Target (Phase 1) |
8-10% depending on account size |
$3,000 – $9,000 depending on account size |
| Profit Target (Phase 2) |
5% (Two-Step Challenge) |
$3,000 – $9,000 (consistency requirement) |
| Maximum Daily Loss |
$1,000 – $5,000 based on account |
$1,000 – $3,000 based on account size |
| Maximum Trailing Drawdown |
$2,000 – $10,000 based on account |
$2,000 – $6,000 based on account size |
| Minimum Trading Days |
4 trading days per phase |
5 trading days minimum in Combine |
| Time Limit |
No time limit |
120 days for standard Combine |
| Consistency Rule |
No specific consistency rule |
Best day cannot exceed 50% of total profits |
Fees and Pricing – How much will you pay?
|
| Option |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Entry Level ($25K-$50K) |
$99 – $165 one-time |
$165 per month (subscription) |
| Mid Tier ($75K-$100K) |
$199 – $299 one-time |
$325 per month (subscription) |
| Premium ($150K+) |
$499 – $599 one-time |
$375 – $400 per month |
| Reset Fee |
Same as initial fee (discounts available) |
Same as monthly subscription |
| Refundable? |
Varies by program |
Fee refunded after first Funded Account payout |
| Coupons |
Coupon Code |
Coupon Code |
| Review |
Read full review |
Read full review |
Platforms/Tools – What can you use?
|
| Platform |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Trading Platforms |
NinjaTrader, TradingView (select programs) |
NinjaTrader, TradeOvate, Quantower |
| Data Feed |
Included with evaluation |
Free Rithmic or TopStep data feed |
| Mobile Trading |
Available through supported platforms |
Available via supported platforms |
| Custom Indicators |
Allowed on supported platforms |
Allowed on all platforms |
| Automated Trading |
Permitted with restrictions |
Allowed with proper disclosure |
| News Feed |
Through platform providers |
Integrated news and economic calendar |
Available Markets/Products
|
| Market |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Index Futures |
E-mini S&P, Nasdaq, Dow, Russell |
All major U.S. index futures |
| Energy Futures |
Crude Oil, Natural Gas |
Full energy complex available |
| Metals |
Gold, Silver |
Gold, Silver, Copper |
| Agricultural |
Limited availability |
Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, and more |
| Currency Futures |
Major pairs available |
EUR, GBP, JPY, and others |
| Micro Contracts |
Supported on select accounts |
All micro futures available |
| Position Limits |
Varies by contract and account size |
Specific limits per contract type |
Technical Capabilities/Performance
|
| Feature |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Execution Speed |
Fast via NinjaTrader infrastructure |
Fast via NinjaTrader and TradeOvate |
| Automated Trading |
Permitted with restrictions |
Allowed with proper disclosure |
| Order Types |
Market, Limit, Stop, OCO |
All standard futures order types |
| Platform Reliability |
Good uptime, modern infrastructure |
Very reliable, established since 2012 |
| Data Feed Quality |
Included with evaluation account |
Free Rithmic or TopStep data feed |
| Trading Hours |
Standard market hours |
Nearly 24/5 access on major products |
Support and Community
|
| Support Feature |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Customer Support Hours |
Email support, business hours |
Live chat and email, extended hours |
| Response Time |
24-48 hours typical |
Same day during business hours |
| Live Coaching |
Not included |
Regular webinars and live trading rooms |
| Trading Community |
Discord channel available |
Active Discord, forums, and social media |
| Educational Resources |
Basic guides and FAQs |
Extensive library, courses, and podcasts |
| Success Stories |
Featured trader interviews |
Regular trader spotlights and case studies |
Conclusion and Final Recommendation
|
| Key Element |
FTMO |
TopStep |
| Strengths |
Lower one-time fees, higher profit splits (up to 90%), flexible evaluation options, larger account sizes available, no time limits on most programs |
Established reputation, comprehensive education, strong community support, fee refund after first payout, multiple platform options, proven track record since 2012 |
| Weaknesses |
Newer platform with less track record, limited educational resources, smaller community, fewer platform integrations, less extensive support |
Monthly subscription model more expensive over time, stricter consistency rules, time limits on evaluation, lower maximum account sizes, 50% best day rule can be challenging |
| Best For |
Experienced traders seeking lower upfront costs, those who prefer one-time fees over subscriptions, traders who want larger account sizes, and those confident in passing quickly |
Beginning to intermediate traders who value education and coaching, those who want an established platform with proven payout history, traders seeking comprehensive support and community |
| Final Grade |
4.0/5 |
4.5/5 |
| Discount Codes |
Coupon Code |
Coupon Code |
| Review |
Read full review |
Read full review |
FAQ
What makes FTMO popular among users?
FTMO has gained popularity primarily due to its competitive one-time fee structure rather than monthly subscriptions, making it more cost-effective for traders who can pass evaluations quickly. The platform offers higher profit splits of up to 90% and provides access to larger account sizes (up to $250K) compared to many competitors. Additionally, FTMO’s flexible evaluation options, including one-step and two-step challenges without strict time limits, appeal to traders who prefer working at their own pace without the pressure of monthly recurring charges.
How does TopStep differ from other similar organizations?
TopStep stands out as one of the pioneers in the funded trader industry, having established its Trading Combine® system in 2012. Unlike many newer prop firms, TopStep has a decade-long track record of consistent payouts and trader success stories. The platform differentiates itself through its comprehensive educational ecosystem, including live trading rooms, webinars, and an extensive resource library that helps traders improve their skills while working toward funding. TopStep’s community-focused approach and transparent track record make it particularly appealing to newer traders who benefit from structured support and proven reliability.
Which platform is more cost-effective: FTMO or TopStep?
The cost-effectiveness depends heavily on how quickly you can pass the evaluation. FTMO’s one-time fee structure ($99-$599 depending on account size) is significantly more economical for traders who pass on their first or second attempt. TopStep’s subscription model ($165-$400/month) can become expensive if you need multiple attempts or extended time to pass. However, TopStep refunds your evaluation fee after your first funded payout, which can offset the higher initial cost. For experienced traders confident in passing within 1-2 months, FTMO offers better value. For traders who need education, support, and potentially longer evaluation periods, TopStep’s comprehensive package may justify the higher monthly investment.
Can I use automated trading strategies with FTMO and TopStep?
Both platforms allow automated trading strategies, but with specific requirements and restrictions. FTMO permits automated trading on their evaluation and funded accounts, though traders should review their specific rules regarding strategy disclosure and execution methods. TopStep also allows automated trading but requires traders to properly disclose their use of algorithms or expert advisors. Both platforms prohibit certain high-frequency trading strategies and require that automated systems comply with their risk management rules, including daily loss limits and maximum drawdown requirements. Always review the current terms of service for each platform before implementing automated strategies.
What happens if I fail the evaluation with either platform?
If you fail the evaluation with FTMO, you’ll need to purchase a new evaluation at the standard price, though FTMO sometimes offers discounts on resets. The failure typically occurs when you breach the maximum daily loss limit, exceed the maximum trailing drawdown, or violate other evaluation rules. With TopStep, failing the Trading Combine® means your subscription continues until you reset or cancel. TopStep’s 120-day time limit means you can also fail by running out of time without hitting profit targets. Both platforms allow unlimited retries as long as you pay the evaluation fees, and many successful traders required multiple attempts before earning funding.
How was this 2 companies Comparison Created?
1. We Collect
Our research team gathered comprehensive data from multiple authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and completeness. We examined official information directly from FTMO and TopStep websites, including their terms of service, pricing structures, evaluation rules, and program details. We analyzed thousands of user reviews from Trustpilot, Reddit trading communities, and industry forums to understand real trader experiences. We also consulted independent trading education sites, YouTube reviews from established trading channels, and interviewed traders who have used both platforms. This multi-source approach ensures our comparison reflects both official policies and real-world trader experiences.
2. We Examine
Our analysis team carefully evaluated each data point for accuracy, relevance, and potential bias. We cross-referenced information across multiple sources to verify claims and identify discrepancies. For pricing and evaluation criteria, we compared current information directly from each platform’s official documentation. For community and support assessments, we weighted recent reviews more heavily than older ones to reflect current platform quality. We also considered seasonal promotions and changes in platform policies, noting where information may be subject to change.
3. We Score
Each platform was scored across multiple weighted categories to produce an objective final grade. Our scoring methodology allocated weights based on factors most important to traders: evaluation criteria fairness (20%), platform and tools quality (15%), educational resources (10%), customer support (10%), community strength (10%), track record and reputation (15%), and payout reliability (5%). Each category receives a score from 1-5 based on objective criteria and comparative analysis. For example, pricing scores consider both upfront costs and long-term value, while evaluation criteria scoring assesses achievability, flexibility, and industry competitiveness. The final grades represent an aggregation of these category scores, adjusted for the significance of each factor to trader success and satisfaction.
4. You Choose
Armed with this comprehensive comparison, you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, experience level, and trading goals. Consider your budget and whether one-time fees or monthly subscriptions fit better with your financial situation. Evaluate your need for educational support and community engagement versus independent trading. Assess your confidence level in passing evaluations quickly versus potentially needing extended time. Whether you choose FTMO for its cost-effectiveness and larger account sizes or TopStep for its established reputation and comprehensive support, ensure that your choice aligns with your trading style, financial situation, and long-term goals in the prop trading industry.
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