TopStep vs Apex Trader Funding 2024: Which one is better?

TopStep vs Apex Trader Funding Review Video

Risk management is a crucial aspect of trading that can greatly impact a trader’s success.

TopStep: Structured Risk Management

TopStep utilizes a structured system to limit trader losses and mitigate risks. Traders that use TopStep will have daily and weekly loss limits and will have a trailing drawdown connected to their end-of-day balance. These rules are in place to instill discipline in traders and help them to avoid making risky decisions that could sink their account.

This approach can be useful for beginning traders who are looking for a more rigid framework to operate within. These stricter guidelines may help encourage traders to develop reliable trading habits to help attain longer-term success. On one hand, these rules can help traders to avoid significant losses and allow for gradual growth but can also put unnecessary limits on growth potential.

Apex Trader Funding: Flexible Risk Management

Apex Trader Funding takes a more flexible approach to mitigating risk. Traders on their platform enjoy more freedom and control of their trading strategy which allows for profit maximization. Apex does have some rules in place, such as a maximum drawdown rule, but it does not impose daily or weekly loss limits which permit traders to make autonomous decisions.

This system is particularly useful and appealing to experienced traders who are equipped to manage risk on their own. Traders that wish to have full control over their trades will particularly enjoy Apex’s approach. Apex understands the importance traders place on being able to utilize their own trading style and strategy, which is why they’ve adopted a far more flexible approach to risk management than most other competitors.

Why They Tie: Balancing Structure with Flexibility

TopStep and Apex Trader Funding offer distinct advantages in the risk management department, depending on the trader’s experience level and preferences.

TopStep’s structured approach is ideal for those who need to become more disciplined and who are looking to become more consistent with their trading. This framework can help in developing strategies that lead to slow but steady growth. On the other hand, Apex Trader Funding’s flexible approach allows traders to take full control of their risk management, which can lead to greater profitability and can help traders develop their own trading approach and strategy.

The choice between these platforms comes down to what a trader values most. TopStep offers a stricter framework for traders that may help limit loss but can limit profitability. Apex allows traders to enjoy more freedom to manage their own risk and maximize profits without having their hand held throughout the process. Ultimately, these two platforms tie in this factor because the choice here is highly dependent on what a trader values most. Both firms offer tools to mitigate risk in different ways and the decision will largely depend on the individual needs of the trader.

The profit-sharing model and targets set by prop firms can greatly influence your potential earnings.

TopStep: Set Profit Target with 90% Share

TopStep operates using a profit split model. Traders keep their first $10,000 but will then receive 90% of their profits after that point. The platform also sets a profit target that a trader must reach which encourages traders to push their limits.

Apex Trader: 100% Share of First $25,000

Apex Trader offers a much more attractive incentive for traders, in comparison. Traders with their platform enjoy a 100% share of their first $25,000 and then a 90% split thereafter. This is an extremely competitive offer that positions Apex at the top of the industry.

Pricing structure can significantly affect your trading expenses, so it is best advised to choose your platform very carefully.

TopStep: Monthly Subscription Fee

TopStep operates on a monthly subscription fee basis, with prices varying depending on the trading combination chosen. TopStep frequently discounts their prices to ease this cost, though. Their $150,000 account regularly costs $375 but is currently priced at $149. These discounts certainly ease the price of admission, but this model can create unnecessary confusion at times and costs can add up quickly.

Apex Trader: Straight Forward Pricing

Apex Trader Funding presents users with straightforward pricing. Although TopStep may run promotions to bring their costs down at times, Apex consistently offers more affordable options at any time of year. For example, the $150,000 account is currently priced at $297, which is far lower than TopStep at full price.

TopStep: Extensive but Basic Educational Resources

TopStep provides a variety of educational resources designed to help traders enhance their skills, including webinars, podcasts, and a trading blog. While these resources can be helpful for beginners, more experienced traders will likely be left feeling unsupported.

The materials tend to focus on basic trading concepts, and some traders might find the content lacking in depth and advanced strategies. Traders who are seeking assistance with more advanced concepts will probably not be able to find what they are looking for.

Apex Trader Funding: Practical Focus on Trading

Apex Trader Funding takes a different approach by prioritizing a robust trading platform and real-world trading experience over extensive educational content. In place of a wide library of educational materials, Apex instead provides traders with numerous tools that offer education through practical experience. Traders that already have a strong knowledge base will likely prefer this model as will those who learn best through experience.

The hands-on experience provided by Apex can be far more valuable than basic educational resources for many. This approach allows traders to refine their strategies in a live trading environment without being constrained by overly simplistic lessons.

Apex Trader Funding’s approach will be more appealing to those who are ready to dive into trading with real capital, rather than spending time on educational content that might not significantly enhance their skills.

Apex Trader Funding: Embracing Trading Flexibility

Apex Trader Funding values the freedom and individuality of traders, opting not to restrict them with an abundance of rules. The firm encourages traders to pursue strategies and trading plans that resonate with them personally.

Apex Trader Funding values freedom for traders on their platform. By choosing not to restrict traders with unnecessary and overly complicated rules, the firm allows their users to pursue and develop their own strategies and trading plans that work best for their situation.

Apex does require traders to demonstrate a degree of consistency. Apex looks to identify users who demonstrate consistent profitability and who adhere to essential rules. While Apex Trader does not have a specific consistency rule, traders that use their platform must understand that violating any other rules could lead to failing the initial evaluation. Apex’s approach is one that balances autonomy with the need to abide by trading rules.

TopStep Trader: Defining Consistency with Targets

TopStep, on the other hand, introduces a defined measure of consistency known as the Consistency Target, which is made clear during the second phase of their Trading Combine.

The Consistency Target serves as a benchmark to measure a trader’s ability to generate consistent profit while managing risk. The Consistency Target stipulates that no single trading day should account for more than 50% of total profits within a given period. If a trader’s most profitable day exceeds this threshold, they must continue trading until the balance is restored.

This rule reflects TopStep’s commitment to fostering disciplined and steady trading habits, ensuring that profitability is achieved through sustained effort and risk control. There are obvious pros and cons to this approach, as consistency is clearly reinforced, but profit maximization may not always be possible.

Factor 6: External Customer Reviews & Ratings

External Apex Trader Funding Reviews & Ratings

Site	Rating
Trustpilot
Benzinga	4.5

While both platforms we have discussed offer valuable opportunities for traders, Apex Trader Funding clearly takes the lead with its trader-friendly approach. Apex’s minimal rules, flexible trading environment, and the highly attractive 100% profit share on your first $25,000 make it the superior choice for traders who value autonomy and increased earning potential.

Apex Trader Funding and TopStep both provide solid platforms for traders that offer valuable opportunities. If you are looking for the most trader-friendly option, Apex is the clear favorite with its minimalistic rule set, flexible trading environment, and generous profit share. Traders that value personal freedom and autonomy in their trades while maximizing their earning potential will find Apex to provide everything they are looking for in a prop trading firm.

Apex is designed for those who are ready to take control of their trading journey without the constraints of overly strict guidelines. If you’re prepared to elevate your trading with Apex Trader Funding, click here to get started and take advantage of 71% Off Evals & 50% Off Resets with Coupon Code FXJEPTUV.

Although TopStep may not be the best choice for more seasoned traders, it does provide some value for beginners who learn best under a stricter set of guidelines. Featuring risk management rules and a library of basic trading concepts, TopStep may be worth considering if you are looking to build foundational knowledge with profit maximization taking a backseat.

For traders looking to take the next step and who’d like to enjoy maximum freedom and unlimited profit potential, Apex Trader Funding provides the best possible platform to do so and is our clear-cut winner.

Learn More About Apex Trader Funding

Learn More About TopStep

FAQs

What is the 7 Day Rule in Apex Trading?

The 7-day rule states that traders must trade on a minimum of 7 separate days. Apex uses this rule to ensure their traders meet their profit target and adhere to other trading rules. This approach allows Apex to confirm that their traders can perform consistently in the markets.

How Long Has Apex Trader Funding Been Around?

Apex Trader Funding, established by Darrell Martin in 2021, has quickly grown into a prominent platform in the prop trading industry. The platform has rapidly grown in popularity and has garnered a strong following, with over 25,000 members from more than 150 countries.

What Trading Instruments Does TopStep Offer?

TopStep is known for futures trading but does offer few options for those interested in Forex or stock trading. Traders that are looking for greater diversification may find TopStep lacking in options and may prefer to trade elsewhere.

Is TopStep a Regulated Broker?

No, TopStep is not a regulated broker. Many other prop trading firms also are unregulated which may be a red flag for traders. Although operating within legal boundaries, traders may prefer the added safety and security that comes with using a regulated platform.

Does Apex Trader Funding Offer a Variety of Trading Platforms?

Yes, Apex allows traders to utilize several different trading platforms, including popular ones like NinjaTrader. This provides traders with flexibility and freedom to choose the platform that best aligns with one’s trading style and philosophy.

Is TopStep International?

Yes, Topstep is an international prop firm that allows traders all over the world to qualify for a funded account. There are restrictions in place, though, as citizens of countries on OFAC’s Sanctioned Countries list may have limited accessibility.

Does TopStep Offer a Profit Split Similar to Apex?

TopStep offers an 80% profit split, which is less generous compared to Apex Trader Funding’s 100% profit retention for the first $25,000. This makes Apex a more attractive option for traders who want to maximize their earnings.

How Strict Are TopStep’s Trading Rules?

TopStep is one of the stricter prop firms when it comes to their trading rules. There are pros and cons to this rigidity, but more experienced traders who crave flexibility may quickly grow frustrated with their inability to execute trades freely.

Can You Trade on Holidays with Apex Trader Funding?

Yes, Apex Trader Funding allows trades to take place on all holidays. This flexibility allows traders to maximize their profit potential by taking advantage of market movements any day, any time. This approach is in direct contrast with many other competing prop firms that restrict trades on holidays.

What Are the Fees Associated with TopStep?

TopStep utilizes a monthly subscription model which means that fees are recurring each month. These recurring fees may be predictable, but some traders may find them to add up quickly and become a burden as compared to Apex’s one-time payment model.