Goat Funded Trader vs Topstep - Prop Firm Comparison
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Introduction
When comparing prop trading firms, Goat Funded Trader and Topstep each offer distinct paths to funded trading. Goat Funded Trader is Spain-based, founded in 2022, and is known for $1 challenge entry promos, Up to 100% profit split. It holds a Trustpilot rating that is not currently published. 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 | Goat Funded Trader | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| 
| |
| Founded | 2022 | 2012 |
| Profit Split | 80-90%, scaling to 100% | 100% first $10,000, then 90/10 |
| Maximum Account Size | $400,000 | $150,000 |
| Evaluation Phases | 1-Step, 2-Step, 3-Step, Instant Funding, Goat $1 | 1 |
| Trustpilot Rating | — | 3.4 |
| Expert Grade | 8.2 | 9 |
Program Types
| Program | Goat Funded Trader | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level Program | Goat $1 | Yes |
| Advanced Program | 1-Step | — |
| Scaling Options | Yes | No |
| Demo Account | No | No |
Rules & Assessment
| Criteria | Goat Funded Trader | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Profit Target | 10% (1-Step), 8%/5% (2-Step), 15% (Goat $1) | 6% |
| Maximum Drawdown | 6% trailing (1-Step), 10% static (2-Step) | Trailing MLL: $2,000-$4,500 |
| Minimum Trading Days | 3 | 5 |
| News Trading | Yes | Yes |
Fees & Pricing
| Option | Goat Funded Trader | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| $10K Account | $79 | — |
| $25K Account | $149 | — |
| $50K Account | $249 | $49/mo |
| $100K Account | $449 | $99/mo |
| $200K Account | $799 | — |
| Refund Policy | 100% member refund on challenge failures | — |
| Coupons / Discount | Goat Funded Trader discount | Topstep discount |
Platforms & Markets
| Feature | Goat Funded Trader | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Platforms | MetaTrader 5, TradeLocker, Match Trader | TopstepX |
| Forex | Yes | Yes |
| Stocks | No | No |
| Indices | Yes | Yes |
| Commodities | Yes | Yes |
| Cryptocurrencies | Yes | No |
| Bonds | No | Yes |
| EA/Algo Trading | Yes | Yes |
Payout
| Feature | Goat Funded Trader | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Payout Terms | Bi-weekly, 80-90% baseline scaling to 100% | Bi-weekly via ACH, wire, or Rise; $50 minimum |
| See all prop firm payouts → | ||
Verdict
| Key Element | Goat Funded Trader | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Strengths | Fast 24-hour payouts, No time limits, Swap-free Islamic accounts, Scaling to $2M, Low $1 entry point | Industry pioneer, generous first $10K profit split, no time limits, EAs permitted, no daily loss limit, $1B+ paid to traders |
| Weaknesses | Limited backtesting, Higher initial payment, Dashboard glitches, Unregulated (Saint Lucia/Hong Kong) | Monthly subscription fees compound, $149 activation fee, TopstepX platform exclusive, futures-only, trailing MLL can catch intraday profit-takers |
| Best For | Disciplined traders managing trailing drawdown risk; Islamic-compliant trading | Serious futures traders seeking established firm with forgiving evaluation |
FAQ
What makes Goat Funded Trader stand out among prop firms?
Goat Funded Trader, based in Spain, was founded in 2022 and is best known for $1 challenge entry promos, up to 100% profit split. With a minimum evaluation cost of $1 (promo) and a 80–100% profit split, it offers a developing value proposition for cost-conscious traders seeking accessible entry.
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 – Goat Funded Trader or Topstep?
Goat Funded Trader offers a 80–100% profit split with Bi-weekly payouts processed in 1-2 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. Goat Funded Trader is best suited to Cost-conscious traders seeking accessible entry, 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 Goat Funded Trader 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 Goat Funded Trader review or read the Topstep review to go deeper.
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