All Prop Firm Comparisons
Read Full Apex Trader Funding Review Read Full Topstep Review
Head-to-Head Comparison
Apex Trader Funding vs Topstep
Full side-by-side breakdown of profit splits, drawdown rules, challenge costs, payout speed, and PFR Score™. Updated for 2026.
Apex Trader Funding
4.6/5
PFR Score™
High-volume futures prop firm offering 100% profit split on your first $25,000, 20-account multi-trading, and frequent 80-90% discount sales.
Visit Apex Trader FundingFull Review →🏆 PFR Winner
Topstep
4.8/5
PFR Score™
The undisputed gold standard of futures prop trading with Chicago CME exchange access, 90% profit splits, and fast 24-hour payouts.
Visit TopstepFull Review →Full Comparison Table
| Criteria | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| PFR Score™ | 4.6 / 5 | ✓4.8 / 5 |
| Max Funding | ✓$300K | $150K |
| Max Profit Split | ✓100% | 90% |
| Challenge Price (Entry) | $147 | ✓$49 |
| Daily Drawdown Limit | 0% | ✓3% |
| Max Total Drawdown | 6% | 6% |
| Min Trading Days | 7 days | ✓0 days |
| Payout Speed | 2-3 business days | 24-48 hours |
| News Trading | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Weekend Holding | ❌ Not Allowed | ❌ Not Allowed |
| EA / Algorithmic Trading | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Trustpilot Score | 4.5 / 5.0 | ✓4.6 / 5.0 |
| Trading Platforms | NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView | NinjaTrader, TradingView, Rithmic |
| Tradeable Assets | Futures | Futures |
| Difficulty | Easy | Medium |
Apex Trader Funding — Pros & Cons
100% profit split on first $25K
Very generous rules
Frequent promotions and sales
Futures only market
Profit split drops after $25K threshold
Topstep — Pros & Cons
The industry leader in futures prop trading
90% profit split for funded traders
Supports TradingView for execution
Futures markets only (no forex or crypto)
Strict adherence to their 'Winning Trade' and scaling rules
Verdict: Which Firm Should You Choose?
Based on our PFR Score™ methodology, Topstep edges ahead in this comparison. The undisputed gold standard of futures prop trading with Chicago CME exchange access, 90% profit splits, and fast 24-hour payouts. However, the best firm for you ultimately depends on your trading style, preferred platform, and risk tolerance.
Apex Trader Funding vs Topstep — FAQ
Is Apex Trader Funding or Topstep better for funded trading?+
Based on our PFR Score™ methodology, Topstep scores higher overall. However, the ideal choice depends on your trading style, preferred instruments, and whether you prioritize profit split or drawdown flexibility.
What is the profit split difference between Apex Trader Funding and Topstep?+
Apex Trader Funding offers up to 100% profit split, while Topstep offers up to 90% profit split to funded traders.
Which firm has stricter drawdown rules — Apex Trader Funding or Topstep?+
Apex Trader Funding enforces a 0% daily drawdown limit and a 6% max total drawdown. Topstep enforces a 3% daily drawdown and a 6% total drawdown. Apex Trader Funding is stricter on daily limits.
Can I use automated trading (EAs) with Apex Trader Funding and Topstep?+
Apex Trader Funding allows automated Expert Advisors (EAs). Topstep allows automated EAs.