TopStep vs FTMO 2024

TopStep vs FTMO Videos

Factor 1: Features

Both platforms use a two-step evaluation process that traders must pass before they can be funded. The first evaluation phase is where traders trade with an initial balance of virtual funds and meet performance goals; the second phase follows similar but slightly different criteria.

Each platform provides traders with a few different resources that they can use to help them during their trading journey, but the specifics of each funding challenge—such as the relevant time frame restrictions or profit goals—vary between the two.

TopStep

TopStep funded trading accounts—which can only be used for trading futures—are held to a variety of different trading conditions that must be followed while meeting trading objectives. These conditions include factors such as maximum drawdown, minimum trading days, daily loss limits, and maximum position size.

The challenge is split into two stages. The first stage imposes minimum trading days, while the second does not. However, traders are held to the “Consistency Rule,” which must be followed to secure a TopStep funded account.

FTMO

The FTMO challenge offers similar benefits to TopStep, except that this prop firm trading program allows FTMO traders to trade multiple types of securities (including crypto, stocks, and forex). The challenge is split into two stages, the first of which—like TopStep—has a minimum amount of trading days required.

Aside from trading for at least four days, you’ll also need to stay within the daily loss limit and other metrics dictated by the challenge. Fortunately, FTMO has a few educational resources that FTMO traders can take advantage of during the challenge.

After the first stage is completed, traders move on to the verification stage. This stage features slightly more lax requirements; its primary purpose is to ensure consistency before you qualify for profit share benefits.

Factor 2: Costs

Both of these prop trading firms will require you to pay to take their funding challenges. It’s important to be aware of any incurred costs (whether they be ongoing or one-time fees), as―even for the most profitable traders―they are sure to cut into your profits.

It’s important to note that monthly charges only apply to the challenges; funded traders aren’t charged these fees (but you will incur other charges).

TopStep

How much you pay for the TopStep Trader program will depend on the initial amount of buying power you desired. Monthly fees range from $49/month (50k buying power) to $149/month ($150k buying power).

FTMO

Like TopStep, your monthly costs incurred with FTMO will depend on your initial buying power. FTMO offers buying power as low as €155/month (10k challenge) up to €1080/month (200k Challenge).

Factor 3: Funding Options

Lastly, we’ll take a look at the different ways you can pay for each respective challenge. Fortunately, both of these platforms offer plenty of payment methods.

TopStep

You can pay for the Trading Combine using a debit/credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) or with your PayPal account. Pre-paid and/or gift cards won’t work directly, although you could technically pay with a gift card through your PayPal account.
Learn More About TopStep

FTMO

FTMO also accepts debit/credit card payments, although it doesn’t accept PayPal. However, you can also pay via bank wire transfer, using one of the accepted cryptocurrencies, with Google Pay, or via Skrill.
Learn More About FTMO

Factor 4: External Customer Reviews & Ratings

External TopStepTrader Reviews & Ratings

External FTMO Reviews & Ratings

Site	Rating
Trustpilot
Forex Broker Report	5
TrustIndex	4.9 from 5,381 votes
Google Play	4.5 from 803 votes

TopStep vs FTMO: Summary

Each proprietary trading company offers educational resources and funding opportunities to those who can pass the challenge(s). The key to passing both of them is finding a winning strategy and staying within the required metrics (like minimum trading days or trailing max drawdown).

We would recommend comparing your trading style to the requirements of each prop trading company to see which challenge gives you the best chance of success. However, the biggest thing that will likely sway your choice is the available assets.

If you’d like to receive funding for futures trading, we recommend TopStep. You can learn more about the funding opportunities, challenge specifics, and free trials by clicking here and enjoy a 60% Discount

For funded trading with other types of securities such as forex, crypto, or stocks, you’ll want to go with FTMO. Click here to try FTMO for free!