If you’re serious about making it as a futures trader, you’ve probably come across two names that dominate the prop firm space: Topstep and Apex Trader Funding. Both promise funded accounts, low-risk trading opportunities, and the potential to grow your trading career—but they go about it in very different ways.
So which one deserves your focus (and your monthly fee)? Let’s break it down and find out who wins in this head-to-head.
Overview: The Two Titans of Futures Prop Trading
Topstep has been around since 2012 and is arguably the most recognized futures prop firm in the world. It pioneered the concept of an online trading combine—a simulated test of trading skill before getting funded.
Apex Trader Funding, founded in 2021, is the new kid on the block. But don’t let that fool you—Apex has exploded in popularity thanks to aggressive pricing, flexible rules, and frequent promotions.
💸 Cost & Pricing: Apex Wins on Affordability
| Feature | Topstep | Apex Trader Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation Cost (Monthly) | $165–$375 | ~$147 (often discounted to ~$25–$50) |
| Resets | $99 per reset | ~$80–$100 per reset |
| Promotions | Rare | Frequent 80–90% off deals |
Verdict: If you’re budget-conscious or just want to test the waters, Apex’s frequent discounts and lower entry cost make it an attractive option.
Evaluation Process: Structure vs. Speed
Topstep:
Two-step evaluation
Must hit a profit target while respecting trailing drawdown, consistency rules, and a 5-day minimum.
Strong emphasis on trading discipline and longevity.
Apex:
One-step evaluation
Fewer restrictions (e.g., no consistency rule).
Trailing drawdown is dynamic—resets to your high-water mark.
You can pass and get funded in just a few days.
Verdict: Topstep is more structured and ideal for traders focused on long-term habits. Apex is faster, more flexible, and easier to pass—especially appealing to experienced or aggressive traders.
Live Funded Accounts: Real or Simulated?
Topstep starts you off in a simulated live account, with real payouts after meeting milestones.
Apex puts you in a simulated account, but allows real payouts from Day 10 (subject to rules).
Both use sim accounts but pay out real money based on performance.
Verdict: Both pay real money from sim accounts, but Apex’s fast payouts (with minimal restrictions) make it a trader favorite.
💵 Payouts & Profit Splits
| Feature | Topstep | Apex Trader Funding |
|---|---|---|
| First Payout | After 15 days & milestones | After 10 trading days |
| Profit Split | 100% of first $10K, then 80/20 | 100% up to $25K+, then 90/10 |
| Payout Method | ACH, Wire, PayPal | Deel, Wise, ACH, etc. |
Verdict: Apex is more generous out of the gate, giving you more of your profits sooner and with less red tape.
Platform Support & Tech
Topstep: Supports Rithmic-based platforms like NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and TopstepX.
Apex: Also uses Rithmic, and integrates with most major platforms (NinjaTrader, Quantower, etc.).
Both offer strong tech and fast execution.
Verdict: It’s a tie—both are solid on the tech front.
Community, Coaching & Support.
Apex is more hands-off. While it has an active Discord and some support content, it’s not as focused on trader development.
Verdict: Topstep wins for those looking for mentorship and long-term improvement.
Who Should Choose What?
Choose Topstep if you:
Value structure, coaching, and discipline
Are new to trading and want to build strong habits
Don’t mind a slower path to funding
Want accountability
Choose Apex if you:
Want fast funding and fewer rules
Already have a strategy and need capital
Love stacking multiple funded accounts
Prefer flexibility and high profit potential
Final Thoughts: The Right Prop Firm for You
In the prop trading world, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Topstep is the old-school coach teaching you to box by the book. Apex is the flashy trainer who says, “If you can win, you’re in.”
Want mentorship and structure? Go with Topstep.
Want speed, flexibility, and maximum earning power? Apex might be your new best friend.
Either way, both firms offer real opportunities for talented traders to grow without risking personal capital. The key? Know your style. Know your goals. Then fund your future accordingly.
Ready to start?
🚀 Visit Topstep or Apex Trader Funding and start your trading journey today.
FAQs
Can I pass Topstep in one day?
The minimum time to complete the Trading Combine is just two trading days, thanks to our Consistency Target requirement. While it's possible to pass in as little as two days, there's absolutely no pressure—you can take as much time as you need to meet the objective at your own pace.
What is the apex 30% rule?
At Apex Trader Funding, the 30% Consistency Rule ensures steady, disciplined trading by preventing a single day's gains from dominating your overall profit. For example, if you have a $50,000 Performance Account (PA) and have earned $5,000 in total profit, your largest single-day profit must not exceed $1,500—which is 30% of your total profits—when you request a payout.
Does Apex really pay?
We have paid out more than 400 million to our traders since 2022. More than any evaluation futures funding company.
