Apex Trader Funding and Topstep are two leading futures prop firms in 2025, offering traders funded accounts after passing evaluations. Here’s a quick breakdown of their key differences:
- Apex: Offers up to $1.5 million funding, a one-step evaluation, and allows managing up to 20 accounts. Traders keep 100% of profits up to $25,000, then move to a 90/10 split. Monthly fees for a $50,000 account are $187, but promotions often reduce costs.
- Topstep: Caps funding at $300,000, uses a two-step evaluation, and focuses on building disciplined trading habits. Traders keep 100% of profits up to $10,000 before a 90/10 split. Monthly fees for a $50,000 account start at $49, with an additional $39 for advanced market data.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Funding | $1.5 million | $300,000 |
| Profit Split Threshold | $25,000 | $10,000 |
| Monthly Fee (50K) | $187 | $49 (+$39 data) |
| Evaluation Steps | One-step | Two-step |
| Contracts (50K) | 10 full, 100 micro | 5 full, 50 micro |
| Payout Timing | After 10 days | Milestone-based |
Choose Apex for scalability, flexibility, and faster payouts. Opt for Topstep if you’re a beginner seeking structure and lower upfront costs. Both firms suit different trading styles and goals, so the right choice depends on your experience and priorities.
👐 Topstep vs Apex Trader Funding 🎯 Which Prop Firm Is Best for You?
Apex Trader Funding and Topstep: Company Profiles
Apex Trader Funding and Topstep are two prominent U.S.-based futures prop firms, each catering to traders in unique ways. Apex focuses on offering growth opportunities with high earning potential and scalability, while Topstep emphasizes structured education and fostering disciplined trading habits. These differences set the tone for understanding their distinctive features and benefits.
Apex employs a one-step evaluation process, enabling traders to access funding more quickly. The firm offers funding up to $1.5 million and allows traders to manage up to 20 accounts simultaneously. This multi-account option is particularly appealing to traders with well-honed strategies, as it provides the opportunity to maximize earnings across multiple funded accounts.
On the other hand, Topstep uses a two-step evaluation process that spans a minimum of 10 trading days. This approach is designed to help traders develop consistent, disciplined habits over time. While Topstep caps funding at $300,000, its entry-level fee is just $49 for a $50,000 account, making it more accessible to those just starting out.
Apex has garnered strong approval from traders, boasting a 4.5/5 rating on Trustpilot from thousands of reviews. This reflects its fast payouts and straightforward account management. Meanwhile, Topstep is widely appreciated for its structured, educational approach, catering to traders seeking a more guided path.
Main Features and Differences
The core features of each firm reflect their distinct philosophies. Apex’s funding capacity of $1.5 million far exceeds Topstep’s $300,000, offering greater scalability and earning potential. For example, traders managing multiple Apex accounts can potentially earn up to $70,000 every 8 days.
Apex also stands out for its platform flexibility, supporting a variety of trading platforms like Tradeovate, Rithmic, and WealthCharts, which are compatible with algorithmic tools. In contrast, Topstep provides a simplified experience with a TradingView-based platform that includes an intuitive dashboard and built-in analytics.
Position sizing is another key distinction. Apex allows traders with a $50,000 account to use 10 full-size contracts or 100 micro contracts, while Topstep limits the same account size to 5 full-size contracts or 50 micro contracts. This added flexibility at Apex can be crucial for strategies requiring larger or more diverse positions.
Profit-sharing structures also differ. Apex lets traders keep 100% of profits up to $25,000, after which earnings are split 90/10 in the trader’s favor. Topstep, however, caps the 100% profit share at $10,000 before switching to the same 90/10 split.
Lastly, their drawdown rules vary. Apex uses a trailing drawdown based on the equity high, which adjusts as the account grows. Topstep applies an end-of-day trailing drawdown, updating only at market close. These differences can significantly impact risk management and may influence which firm aligns better with a trader’s style.
Who Each Firm Is For
Apex Trader Funding is best suited for intermediate to advanced traders with proven strategies who are ready to scale aggressively. Its support for managing up to 20 accounts and compatibility with advanced trade copying tools makes it ideal for professionals aiming to treat prop trading as a primary income source. The faster payout process also appeals to traders who depend on consistent cash flow.
Topstep, by contrast, is geared toward beginner and intermediate traders who benefit from a structured, educational environment. Its two-step evaluation process helps traders build consistent habits while minimizing the risk of overtrading. With a lower monthly fee of $49, Topstep provides an affordable entry point for those transitioning from demo accounts to live trading. Additionally, its unified TradingView-based platform ensures a consistent setup for all traders from the outset.
Both firms operate within regulatory guidelines to protect trader funds, but their approaches differ. Apex offers more flexibility with multiple platforms and automation, requiring traders to ensure their strategies align with the firm’s rules. Topstep, with its standardized setup, creates a uniform environment that’s easier for newer traders to navigate.
Evaluation Process and Trading Rules
Evaluation Process Overview
When it comes to getting started, Apex Trader Funding and Topstep take different approaches to evaluating traders. Apex focuses on a faster path to funded status with a straightforward process, while Topstep opts for a multi-stage evaluation designed to help traders develop consistent habits over time. These differences not only shape the evaluation experience but also influence how each firm enforces trading rules and risk management practices. To choose the right fit, it’s important to review the evaluation criteria for both firms.
Rule Differences and Flexibility
The rules and flexibility offered by Apex and Topstep also differ in key ways. Apex uses a trailing drawdown that adjusts as your account grows, and it doesn’t impose daily loss limits. On the other hand, Topstep enforces strict daily loss limits and applies an end-of-day trailing drawdown, which updates only at market close. This makes Topstep’s approach more cautious, often requiring traders to take smaller positions.
Position sizing and automated trading strategies are another area where the two firms diverge. Apex allows for larger positions relative to the account size and offers more freedom with automated strategies. In contrast, Topstep takes a more conservative approach and may require pre-approval for automation.
Penalties for rule violations also vary. Apex focuses on breaches of its trailing drawdown and the use of prohibited strategies, while Topstep is stricter, enforcing rules like daily loss limits, restrictions on overnight positions, and minimum evaluation day requirements. Following these rules is critical to maintaining your funded trader status.
Scaling opportunities differ as well. Apex allows traders to manage multiple accounts simultaneously, which can be a big advantage for those with proven strategies looking to scale up. Topstep, however, prioritizes gradual growth within a single account. Understanding these scaling options is essential for traders planning their long-term earning potential.
U.S. Trading Considerations
For U.S.-based traders, the differences extend to how each firm aligns with market schedules and regulatory requirements. Topstep limits trading to standard market hours and observes U.S. market holidays, making compliance straightforward for international traders. Apex, by contrast, offers more flexibility, allowing trading whenever markets are open under U.S. regulations. However, this flexibility may require traders to plan more carefully around market holidays.
To navigate these differences, resources like DamnPropFirms can be incredibly helpful. They provide verified reviews, discount codes, and tools like the Consistency Rule Calculator, helping traders assess how these trading rules might impact their strategies.
Payouts, Profit Splits, and Fees
Profit Splits and Payout Timing
Apex Trader Funding and Topstep take different approaches when it comes to early profit retention. With Apex, you get to keep 100% of your profits up to $25,000, and after that, the split shifts to 90% in your favor. On the other hand, Topstep allows you to retain 100% of profits only up to $10,000, before applying the same 90/10 split for any additional earnings.
This $15,000 gap in the threshold can make a big difference for traders aiming to maximize early gains. For example, if you earn $20,000, Apex lets you keep the entire amount, while Topstep only applies the full retention to the first $10,000, with the remaining $10,000 subject to the 90/10 split.
Payout timing is another key difference. Apex provides quicker and less restrictive withdrawals, allowing traders to request payouts after just 10 trading days, with no additional milestone requirements. In contrast, Topstep’s payout process is slower and comes with more conditions, often requiring traders to hit specific milestones before accessing their funds. This can have a direct impact on cash flow, which is critical if you’re relying on trading income for living expenses or reinvestment.
Fees and Costs
Monthly fees are a recurring expense that directly affects your profitability. For a $50,000 account, Apex charges $187 per month (excluding promotional discounts), while Topstep’s base fee is significantly lower at $49 per month.
However, there’s more to the cost equation than just the monthly fee. Both firms charge one-time activation fees when you transition to a funded account: Apex’s fee is approximately $160, and Topstep’s is slightly lower at $149. Additionally, Apex covers market data fees, so there are no extra charges in this area. Topstep, however, adds $39 per month for advanced market data, bringing its total monthly cost for a $50,000 account to $88 – still less than Apex, but not by as wide a margin.
Let’s look at how these fees impact profitability. For a trader earning $5,000 in monthly profits on a $50,000 account, Topstep’s base fee represents 0.98% of profits, while Apex’s fee accounts for 3.74%.
| Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee (50K account) | $187 | $49 |
| Activation Fee | $160 | $149 |
| Market Data Fee | Included | $39/month (advanced) |
| Profit Split | 100% up to $25K, then 90% | 100% up to $10K, then 90% |
| Payout Timing | After 10 trading days | Slower, milestone-based |
These costs, combined with profit splits and payout timing, shape the overall cost-efficiency of each platform.
Funding Limits and Earning Potential
The maximum funding each platform offers has a major impact on your long-term earnings. Apex provides funding of up to $1.5 million, with some traders scaling even higher – beyond $2 million – through multiple accounts. In comparison, Topstep caps funding at $300,000, which is significantly lower and may limit scalability for traders with proven strategies.
Apex’s higher funding ceiling and allowance for managing multiple accounts simultaneously enable traders to compound their earnings. For instance, if you’re consistently profitable on a $100,000 account, you can add another $100,000 account, and so on, building toward the $1.5 million cap. In contrast, Topstep focuses on gradual growth within a single account, which restricts the ability to scale through multiple positions at once.
For smaller accounts in the $25,000–$50,000 range, Topstep’s lower monthly fees make it more cost-efficient, as the fee represents a larger percentage of potential profits. However, for larger accounts of $100,000 or more, Apex’s higher funding limits and multi-account options can justify the higher monthly fees, offering greater earning potential over time.
The balance between account size, fees, and profit potential creates distinct value propositions depending on your goals and experience level. Newer traders testing strategies on smaller accounts may find Topstep’s lower costs more appealing. Experienced traders aiming for maximum earnings often lean toward Apex, where the higher funding limits and faster payouts align with their needs.
To help traders navigate these scenarios, tools like DamnPropFirms offer resources such as the Consistency Rule Calculator. This tool calculates take-home earnings based on factors like profit splits, monthly fees, and funding limits. Additionally, the platform provides verified reviews and discount codes – such as Apex’s promotional offers, which can reduce evaluation costs by up to 80% – to help minimize upfront expenses while optimizing long-term profitability.
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Pros, Cons, and Special Features
Why Choose Apex Trader Funding
Apex Trader Funding is a standout choice for traders who value flexibility and the potential to grow their earnings. Unlike some competitors, Apex does away with restrictive rules, giving traders the freedom to operate on their own terms.
One of Apex’s most appealing features is the lack of a daily drawdown rule. This means you can handle larger intraday losses without violating account limits, as long as you stay within the overall trailing drawdown. By comparison, Topstep’s end-of-day trailing drawdown can force traders to close or adjust positions prematurely during volatile markets.
Apex also allows traders to manage up to 20 accounts at once, making it a great option for those looking to scale their operations. This multi-account setup can help traders work toward funding levels as high as $1.5 million.
For those using algorithms, Apex supports trading platforms like Tradeovate, Rithmic, and WealthCharts. It also works with trade copying tools like Tradesyncer, which simplifies execution by letting you sync trades from a master account to over 40 follower accounts. This feature reduces the need for manual effort and streamlines operations.
Apex frequently offers discounts, and with a $160 activation fee and fast payout processing, it helps keep cash moving for active traders. The profit split is another highlight: traders keep 100% of their profits up to $25,000. In comparison, Topstep’s 90/10 split kicks in after the first $10,000. For a trader earning $20,000 in profits, Apex’s structure means taking home about $1,000 more.
Finally, Apex has built a strong reputation, earning a 4.5/5 rating on Trustpilot from thousands of reviews.
Why Choose Topstep
Topstep is a great fit for traders who prefer structure and value educational resources. Its two-phase evaluation process is designed to help traders develop disciplined habits and offers a clear pathway for those still mastering the basics.
The platform provides a wealth of resources, including coaching sessions, webinars, and a vibrant community where traders can exchange ideas and strategies. This supportive environment can be especially beneficial for newer traders who thrive on feedback and guidance. Apex, by contrast, focuses more on flexibility and speed.
Topstep also has lower monthly fees. A $50,000 account costs $49 per month, and even with an additional $39 for advanced market data, the total is significantly less than Apex’s $187 monthly fee. This pricing makes Topstep appealing for traders with smaller accounts or those experimenting with new strategies.
The platform’s TradingView-based interface is intuitive and includes integrated charting and analytics. Additionally, Topstep’s day trading rules, which require positions to be closed by the end of each session, help traders avoid overnight risks. This controlled environment is ideal for those who prefer a more structured approach.
While both firms have their strengths, each comes with trade-offs that are worth considering.
Limitations of Each Firm
The differences between Apex and Topstep highlight the importance of choosing a firm that aligns with your trading style and goals.
For Apex, the higher monthly fees – $187 per month – can be a drawback, especially for traders with smaller accounts. Evaluation fees can also be steep outside of promotional periods. Additionally, Apex’s less structured approach might be challenging for newer traders who could benefit from Topstep’s phased evaluation process and educational support. Without a structured framework, traders need strong self-discipline to manage risks and maintain consistency.
On the other hand, Topstep’s payout process can be slower due to its milestone-based system, which may disrupt cash flow for traders who rely on regular income. Its stricter rules, including the end-of-day trailing drawdown and lower maximum loss limits ($2,000 for a $50,000 account versus Apex’s $2,500), can also limit flexibility during volatile markets.
Topstep offers fewer contracts as well – 5 full contracts and 50 micro contracts for a $50,000 account, compared to Apex’s 10 full contracts and 100 micro contracts. This limitation can restrict position sizing for traders who rely on managing multiple contracts.
Lastly, Topstep’s funding cap of $300,000 may limit long-term growth for high-performing traders. Apex, by contrast, allows for more aggressive scaling, enabling traders to build much larger accounts over time.
For traders weighing these pros and cons, tools like the Consistency Rule Calculator from DamnPropFirms, along with verified reviews and discount codes, can help you make a choice that aligns with your trading objectives.
Which Firm Fits Your Trading Style?
When deciding between Apex and Topstep, it’s all about understanding your trading journey and what environment works best for you. Both firms cater to different trader profiles, and here’s a closer look at how each might align with your needs.
For New Traders Learning the Basics
If you’re just starting out, Topstep’s two-phase evaluation process is designed to help you build consistency and discipline before managing larger capital. This structured approach makes it easier for beginners to focus on developing habits that support long-term success.
Topstep might not offer as much direct guidance as Apex, but its community-driven atmosphere allows traders to share strategies and learn from one another. The firm’s day-trading-only policy ensures all positions are closed by the end of each session, reducing overnight risks and helping you focus on short-term strategies.
Cost-wise, Topstep is easier on the wallet for beginners. The $49 monthly fee for a $50,000 account is much lower than Apex’s $187 fee, making it a practical choice while you’re still learning. Plus, with its TradingView-based platform, you get integrated charting and analytics without needing additional subscriptions.
For Experienced Traders Wanting Freedom
If you’re a seasoned trader with a proven track record, Apex offers the kind of flexibility and earning potential that can take your trading to the next level. Unlike Topstep, Apex doesn’t impose a daily drawdown rule, giving you the freedom to hold positions through intraday swings – as long as you stay within the overall trailing drawdown. This flexibility is especially appealing for swing traders or those with strategies that extend beyond a single session.
Apex also stands out with its profit-sharing structure. You keep 100% of your profits up to $25,000 before moving to a 90/10 split, compared to Topstep’s $10,000 threshold. Over time, this can make a big difference for traders who consistently perform well.
For those looking to scale aggressively, Apex allows up to 20 accounts simultaneously, with funding potential exceeding $1.5 million. It also provides more contracts per account size – 10 full contracts and 100 micro contracts for a $50,000 account, compared to Topstep’s 5 full and 50 micro contracts. If you’re an algorithmic trader, Apex supports platforms like Tradeovate, Rithmic, and WealthCharts, offering the tools needed for automated strategies. Features like Tradesyncer let you sync trades from a master account to over 40 follower accounts, making it a great option for traders who value flexibility and scalability.
For U.S.-Based Traders With Compliance Needs
Both Apex and Topstep cater to U.S.-based traders in the futures market, but their platforms and contract options differ in ways that might matter depending on your compliance or broker requirements. Apex’s broader platform support provides more versatility if you need specific regulatory or broker-related options. While Topstep supports NinjaTrader and a TradingView-based platform, some platforms may require additional licensing or fees.
Apex also offers greater flexibility in position sizing across popular futures contracts, such as the E-mini S&P 500 and crude oil. On the other hand, Topstep’s lower $49 monthly fee for a $50,000 account remains appealing for day traders who prefer structured support and lower costs.
For more detailed comparisons, check out reviews and tools on DamnPropFirms. Dive into our Apex Trader Funding review and Topstep review, or join our Discord community of over 3,000 traders to get real-world insights and advice.
Tools for Comparing Prop Firms
When deciding between Apex and Topstep, you need more than just surface-level opinions. That’s where DamnPropFirms steps in, offering tools to help you compare firms, snag exclusive discounts, and use performance calculators. Here’s what makes DamnPropFirms a go-to resource for traders.
Reviews and Discount Codes
DamnPropFirms delivers verified reviews of Apex Trader Funding, Topstep, and dozens of other futures prop firms. Their research team manually verifies each firm, providing insights like payout speed ratings, risk signals, and detailed breakdowns you won’t find elsewhere. This means you’re getting clear, data-backed reviews instead of promotional fluff.
Want to dig deeper? Check out their dedicated pages for both firms: the Apex Trader Funding review and the Topstep review. These pages cover rules, payout structures, and real trader experiences, giving you a full picture before committing.
On top of reviews, DamnPropFirms offers exclusive discount codes to save you money. For example, in November 2025, you can grab an 80% discount for Apex Trader Funding using the code DGT. These verified codes can cut costs significantly – sometimes saving you over $1,000 on evaluation challenges. This makes it easier to test multiple firms without breaking the bank.
The platform also ranks firms monthly based on factors like evaluation fairness, payout speed, community feedback, and consistency. This ranking system helps you compare Apex and Topstep against other firms such as Take Profit Trader, FundedNext Futures, and Tradeify. Beyond rankings, DamnPropFirms provides tools and a strong community to support your trading journey.
Trading Tools and Community
One standout feature of DamnPropFirms is the Consistency Rule Calculator, a free tool designed for prop firm traders. This calculator breaks down drawdown rules, daily loss limits, and profit targets for each firm. For instance, Apex doesn’t require daily drawdowns, while Topstep uses an end-of-day trailing drawdown. The tool helps you figure out which firm’s rules align better with your trading style. It also lets you model potential earnings under each firm’s profit split structure, such as comparing Apex’s $25,000 threshold for a 90/10 split to Topstep’s $10,000 threshold.
Another helpful tool is TradeSyncer, a cloud-based trade copier. This tool syncs trades from one master account to over 40 follower accounts across platforms like Tradovate, Rithmic, DxFeed, and TradingView. It simplifies managing accounts across multiple firms and streamlines performance analysis.
DamnPropFirms also fosters a strong community through its Damn Good Traders Discord, which includes over 3,000 prop firm traders. This active group shares honest reviews, strategies, and advice. Whether you’re navigating evaluations or managing funded accounts, the community offers real-world insights to help you succeed.
Scaling Accounts and Improving Payouts
DamnPropFirms isn’t just about choosing the right firm – it’s about helping you grow your accounts and increase payouts. Their tools, like the Consistency Rule Calculator, guide you through passing evaluations efficiently and scaling instant funding accounts by managing rules effectively. For traders looking to manage multiple accounts or scale aggressively, these resources are invaluable.
The platform also provides detailed payout speed reviews, so you know how long it takes to receive your profits. For example, both Apex and Topstep charge activation fees of around $149–$160 once funded. Understanding these costs upfront helps you budget and pick the firm offering the best value.
DamnPropFirms only partners with firms that pass strict due diligence, clearly marking unverified firms. This transparency ensures you’re relying on accurate information, not marketing gimmicks. Their monthly rankings keep you updated on firms maintaining high standards in fairness, payouts, and trader satisfaction.
Whether you’re comparing monthly costs – like Topstep’s $49 versus Apex’s $187 for a $50,000 account – or figuring out which platform fits your trading style, DamnPropFirms equips you with the tools and insights to make informed decisions and thrive as a funded trader.
Conclusion
Deciding between Apex Trader Funding and Topstep boils down to your trading style, experience level, and personal goals. Both firms have established strong reputations in the futures prop trading industry, but they cater to distinct types of traders. Apex shines with its flexible rules, higher funding potential – up to $1.5 million – and generous contract allowances (10 full and 100 micro contracts for a $50,000 account). These features make it a great fit for experienced traders who prefer the freedom to use aggressive strategies, automated systems, or complex multi-leg positions without worrying about daily drawdown restrictions.
On the other hand, Topstep offers a more structured environment, making it ideal for newer traders. With a lower monthly fee of $49 for a $50,000 account (compared to Apex’s $187), funding capped at $300,000, and contract limits of 5 full and 50 micro contracts, Topstep focuses on helping traders build consistency. Its TradingView-based platform, combined with an emphasis on education, provides a supportive framework for those still honing their skills, though it offers less flexibility than Apex.
Both firms feature a similar profit split structure, allowing traders to keep 90% of their profits after reaching specific thresholds. However, Apex requires traders to hit $25,000 before the split applies, while Topstep’s threshold is a more accessible $10,000.
Cost is another factor to weigh. While Topstep’s fees are lower, Apex often runs promotions, like an 80% discount on evaluations during November 2025 with the code DGT, which can make it more affordable.
Apex supports multiple trading platforms, giving traders more flexibility, whereas Topstep’s TradingView-based interface focuses on simplicity and analytics.
To make the best choice, take advantage of resources like DamnPropFirms. This site offers verified reviews, detailed breakdowns of firm rules, payout speeds, and insights from real traders. Their Consistency Rule Calculator can help you estimate potential earnings under each firm’s structure. Additionally, the Damn Good Traders Discord, with over 3,000 members, is a valuable space to hear firsthand experiences and practical advice from traders who have used both platforms. These tools can help you align your decision with your trading objectives.
FAQs
How do the evaluation processes of Apex Trader Funding and Topstep differ, and what should traders consider when choosing between them?
Apex Trader Funding and Topstep each offer unique evaluation processes tailored to different trading preferences and styles. Apex stands out for its flexibility, with fewer restrictions like no daily loss limits and the freedom to trade during news events. In contrast, Topstep focuses heavily on discipline, incorporating rules such as the Consistency Rule and stricter risk management requirements.
Choosing between the two depends largely on your trading style, risk tolerance, and how you feel about rules. If you thrive in a more relaxed trading setup, Apex might align better with your needs. On the flip side, if you value a structured environment that encourages accountability, Topstep could be the ideal choice to help refine your trading habits.
How do Apex Trader Funding and Topstep’s profit splits impact trader earnings, and what factors should traders consider when deciding between them?
Apex Trader Funding and Topstep each have distinct profit split structures that can impact a trader’s earnings. Apex stands out by offering profit splits as high as 90%, enabling traders to keep a larger share of their profits. On the other hand, Topstep provides slightly lower splits but emphasizes a more structured approach, helping traders build their skills and grow their accounts over time.
Deciding between the two depends on your trading style, goals, and the kind of support you prefer. If your focus is on maximizing payouts, Apex might suit you better. But if you’re looking for a guided experience with additional resources to develop as a trader, Topstep could be a better match. Be sure to carefully review each program’s terms to ensure they align with your trading objectives.
What are the benefits of managing multiple accounts with Apex compared to Topstep’s single-account approach for traders looking to scale?
Apex Trader Funding provides traders with the option to manage multiple funded accounts at the same time, offering a way to expand trading opportunities. This setup lets you spread out strategies, reduce risks, and increase earning potential across various accounts. For instance, you could dedicate one account to a specific trading style or adapt others to different market conditions, giving you added flexibility.
On the other hand, Topstep takes a different approach by focusing on a single-account growth model. Traders advance through structured funding stages, which can make account management simpler and encourage consistency. However, this method may not offer the same rapid scaling opportunities as Apex’s multi-account system. Deciding which is better for you depends on your trading approach and what you aim to achieve.
