Discover which premium prop firm delivers the best rules, payouts, and funded account opportunities for futures traders. Expert analysis from All Prop Funding — the trusted authority in prop firm passing services and funded account management.
The futures prop firm industry has exploded in 2026, with thousands of traders seeking legitimate opportunities to access large capital without risking their own money. Among the most prominent players in this space are Apex Trader Funding and Topstep — two industry leaders that have helped countless traders achieve their dream of becoming funded futures traders.
At All Prop Funding, we specialize in prop firm passing services and funded account management services. Having successfully passed thousands of challenges across both platforms, we’ve developed deep expertise in the nuances of each firm’s rules, evaluation processes, payout structures, and trader support systems.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every critical aspect of both Apex Trader Funding and Topstep — from evaluation rules and profit targets to consistency requirements, payout policies, platform compatibility, and overall value for traders at every experience level.
Choosing the right prop firm can make or break your trading career. The wrong choice leads to failed evaluations, lost fees, and wasted time. The right choice opens doors to six-figure funded accounts, consistent payouts, and long-term trading success.
Traders across Reddit, Trustpilot, and trading forums constantly debate which firm offers better value. Common search queries include:
Our goal with this guide is to provide an honest, data-driven comparison that helps you make an informed decision based on your trading style, goals, and budget.
Industry-leading futures prop firm
Established regulated prop firm
Side-by-side performance metrics
Apex Trader Funding has established itself as one of the most popular futures prop firms in the industry, known for its aggressive pricing, flexible rules, and generous profit splits. Founded with the mission to democratize access to futures trading capital, Apex has grown to serve tens of thousands of traders worldwide.
Apex Trader Funding is a futures proprietary trading firm that provides traders with funded accounts after they pass a one-step evaluation. Unlike traditional prop firms that require multiple evaluation phases, Apex simplifies the process with a single-step challenge that focuses on profit targets and drawdown limits.
The firm specializes in futures trading, offering accounts ranging from $25,000 to $300,000 in simulated buying power. Traders can trade popular futures instruments including E-mini S&P 500 (ES), Nasdaq 100 (NQ), Crude Oil (CL), Gold (GC), and many more.
| Account Size | Monthly Fee | Activation Fee | Profit Target | Max Drawdown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25,000 | $49 | $85 | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| $50,000 | $79 | $110 | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| $75,000 | $99 | $130 | $4,500 | $3,500 |
| $100,000 | $129 | $150 | $6,000 | $4,500 |
| $150,000 | $179 | $175 | $9,000 | $6,500 |
| $250,000 | $249 | $200 | $15,000 | $10,000 |
| $300,000 | $299 | $225 | $18,000 | $12,000 |
Understanding the Apex Trader Funding evaluation rules is crucial for passing the challenge on your first attempt. Here are the key requirements:
Many traders search for “Apex 1 day to pass” strategies. While technically possible, we recommend a minimum of 7-14 trading days for sustainable results. Our prop firm passing service uses proven strategies that consistently pass within 10-20 trading days.
One of the most attractive features of Apex is its payout structure:
Apex supports multiple professional trading platforms:
Learning how to connect Apex to NinjaTrader or how to connect funded account to TradingView is straightforward with our step-by-step guides.
Topstep is one of the oldest and most established futures prop firms in the industry, founded in 2012. With over a decade of experience, Topstep has built a reputation for reliability, professional support, and a structured approach to trader development.
Topstep operates as a futures proprietary trading firm that offers a two-step evaluation process (Trading Combine) followed by a funded Express Account. The firm is known for its educational resources, trader coaching, and commitment to developing consistently profitable traders.
Unlike Apex’s single-step evaluation, Topstep’s approach is more comprehensive, requiring traders to demonstrate consistency over a longer period before receiving a funded account.
| Account Size | Monthly Fee | Activation Fee | Profit Target | Max Loss |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $149 | $149 | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| $100,000 | $179 | $179 | $6,000 | $4,500 |
| $150,000 | $249 | $249 | $9,000 | $6,500 |
The Topstep evaluation rules are designed to identify consistently profitable traders:
Topstep offers flexibility with platform choices:
A comprehensive side-by-side analysis of every critical factor that matters to funded futures traders in 2026.
| Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2017 | 2012 | Topstep (More established) |
| Evaluation Steps | 1-Step | 2-Step | Apex (Faster) |
| Starting Price | $49/month | $149/month | Apex (Cheaper) |
| Max Account Size | $300,000 | $150,000 | Apex (Larger) |
| Profit Split | 100%/90% | 90% | Apex (Better) |
| Payout Frequency | Bi-weekly | Weekly | Topstep (Faster) |
| Consistency Rule | 30% (some accounts) | 50% | Topstep (Easier) |
| Minimum Trading Days | 7 days | 10 days | Apex (Fewer) |
| Platforms | NT8, Rithmic, Tradovate | NT8, TradingView, Rithmic | Tie |
| Scaling Plan | Up to $3M | Up to $600K | Apex (Higher) |
| Reset Fee | Varies by account | $149-$249 | Apex (Lower) |
| Customer Support | Good | Excellent | Topstep |
| Educational Resources | Basic | Comprehensive | Topstep |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.2/5 | 4.5/5 | Topstep |
| Best For | Budget-conscious traders | Professional development | Depends on goals |
Expert trader evaluating prop firm options
Real payout proof from funded accounts
Protecting your trading capital
The answer depends on your trading style, budget, experience level, and goals. Let’s break down the scenarios where each firm excels:
For most traders in 2026, Apex Trader Funding offers better value due to lower fees, larger accounts, and superior profit splits. However, if you’re a beginner who needs education and support, Topstep’s structured approach may be worth the premium.
At All Prop Funding, we can help you pass challenges on either platform with our professional prop firm passing service.
Professional account management and challenge passing services for all major prop firms.
Our expert traders pass your prop firm challenge using proven strategies and risk management. We handle Apex, Topstep, and 12+ other firms with a 95%+ success rate.
Once funded, we manage your account professionally to maximize profits and ensure consistent payouts. Verified track record on Myfxbook.
Professional forex trading services for both prop firm and personal accounts. Customized strategies based on your risk tolerance.
Custom expert advisors designed specifically to pass prop firm challenges while respecting all rules including consistency and drawdown limits.
Learn the strategies we use to pass challenges consistently. Comprehensive courses covering futures, forex, and risk management.
Professional guidance on position sizing, drawdown control, and portfolio management for sustainable trading success.
Proven methods for passing challenges
Scaling funded accounts profitably
Consistent returns from funded accounts
Choose the service package that fits your goals and budget.
Verified track record of successful challenge passes and funded account management.
Myfxbook verified track record
Expert NinjaTrader execution
Thousands of funded traders
Real testimonials from traders who’ve used our prop firm passing service.
“All Prop Funding passed my Apex Trader Funding $150K challenge in just 8 days. The team is professional, responsive, and truly understands prop firm rules. Highly recommend their service!”
“I failed my Topstep challenge 3 times before finding All Prop Funding. They passed it on the first try and have been managing my funded account profitably for 6 months now. Best investment I’ve made.”
“The transparency and communication from All Prop Funding is outstanding. They provided daily updates during my challenge and delivered results faster than promised. Myfxbook verified!”
Expert E-mini S&P 500 trading
From $10K to $250K accounts
At All Prop Funding, we stand behind our services with confidence. Our refund policy is designed to protect our clients while maintaining the integrity of our operations.
Contact our support team via Telegram or WhatsApp with your order details. Refunds are processed within 5-7 business days.
We’ve maintained a 95%+ success rate across thousands of challenges. If we fail, we retry at no additional cost. Your satisfaction is our priority.
The Apex Trader Funding consistency rule is one of the most discussed topics among traders. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding the Apex Trader Funding drawdown mechanics is crucial:
Intraday trailing drawdown is a risk management mechanism where your maximum loss limit moves up with your profits during the trading day, but locks in at the end of the day. This prevents traders from giving back large profits while still allowing for normal market fluctuations.
The Apex Trader Funding payout policy is among the most generous in the industry:
One of Apex’s unique features is the ability to hold multiple funded accounts simultaneously:
Topstep’s consistency rule is more relaxed than Apex’s:
Topstep uses an end-of-day trailing drawdown:
Topstep offers a structured scaling path:
Passing a prop firm challenge requires more than just trading skill — it requires understanding the specific rules and developing a strategy that works within those constraints.
Our proven approach to passing Apex challenges:
Our Topstep passing methodology:
Don’t waste time and money on failed attempts. Our professional prop firm passing service has a 95%+ success rate. Contact us on Telegram to get started today.
One of the most common questions we receive is whether these prop firms are legitimate. Let’s address the concerns directly:
Apex Trader Funding is 100% legitimate. Here’s the evidence:
Topstep is 100% legitimate and one of the oldest prop firms. Evidence includes:
Both Apex Trader Funding and Topstep are legitimate, reputable prop firms. The choice between them depends on your specific needs, budget, and trading style. Neither is a scam — both have paid out millions to funded traders.
While both firms are legitimate, no business is perfect. Common complaints include:
At All Prop Funding, we help traders navigate these challenges and maximize their chances of success regardless of which firm they choose.
One of the advantages of Apex Trader Funding is their frequent promotional offers. Here’s what you need to know about saving money:
Use our exclusive Apex Trader Funding discount code to save on your evaluation. Contact us on Telegram for the latest promo codes.
Apex offers a generous affiliate program where you can earn commissions by referring new traders. Benefits include:
Setting up your Apex funded account on NinjaTrader is straightforward:
TradingView integration allows you to analyze charts on TradingView while executing trades through your prop firm:
Understanding trading hours is crucial for success:
Join thousands of successful traders who’ve used our professional prop firm passing service to achieve their funding goals.
Everything you need to know about Apex Trader Funding, Topstep, and our prop firm passing services.
Apex Trader Funding offers a single-step evaluation with lower fees and larger accounts (up to $300K), while Topstep uses a two-step process with more educational resources and weekly payouts. Apex is better for budget-conscious traders, while Topstep suits those seeking structured development.
Yes, Apex Trader Funding is 100% legitimate. Operating since 2017, they have paid out millions to funded traders and maintain a 4.2/5 rating on Trustpilot with hundreds of verified reviews.
Absolutely. Topstep has been operating since 2012 and is one of the oldest and most reputable prop firms in the industry. They maintain a 4.5/5 Trustpilot rating and have thousands of successful funded traders.
It depends on your goals. Apex offers lower fees, larger accounts, and better profit splits. Topstep provides better education, support, and weekly payouts. For most traders in 2026, Apex offers better overall value.
Apex evaluation fees start at $49/month for a $25K account, with larger accounts up to $299/month for $300K. Activation fees range from $85-$225 depending on account size.
Topstep evaluations start at $149/month for a $50K account, with fees up to $249/month for $150K accounts. Activation fees match the monthly fee.
Apex offers 100% profit split on the first $25,000 of profits, then 90/10 in the trader’s favor for profits above $25,000.
Topstep offers a 90/10 profit split, with 90% going to the trader and 10% to Topstep on all profits.
Use proper risk management (1-2% per trade), maintain consistent position sizing, focus on ES/NQ futures, avoid news events, and aim for multiple small wins rather than one large day. Our prop firm passing service has a 95%+ success rate.
The Apex consistency rule states that no single trading day can account for more than 30% of your total profits on most accounts. This encourages consistent trading rather than lucky one-day wins.
Topstep’s consistency rule is more relaxed, allowing no single day to exceed 50% of total profits. This gives traders more flexibility for larger winning days.
Intraday trailing drawdown is a risk mechanism where your maximum loss limit moves up with unrealized profits during the trading day, then locks in at end of day. This protects profits while allowing normal market fluctuations.
Yes, Apex allows overnight holding on most account types. This is actually beneficial because the trailing drawdown locks in at end of day, protecting your profits.
Topstep allows overnight holding but with certain restrictions. Check their current rules as they may vary by account type and market conditions.
Most traders pass the Apex evaluation in 7-20 trading days. After passing, activation typically takes 24-48 hours. Our service can pass challenges in 5-10 days on average.
Topstep’s two-step process typically takes 20-40 trading days total. The Trading Combine requires 10 minimum days, followed by Express Account verification.
Apex supports NinjaTrader 8, Rithmic, Tradovate, and DxFeed. NinjaTrader 8 is the most popular choice among funded traders.
Topstep supports NinjaTrader 8, TradingView, Rithmic, and Tradovate. TradingView integration is a unique advantage of Topstep.
Download NinjaTrader 8, go to Connections, select Rithmic or NinjaTrader Continuum, enter your Apex credentials, select your account, and connect. Full setup guides are available on our website.
Open TradingView, go to Trading Panel, select your broker (Rithmic, NinjaTrader, etc.), enter credentials, authorize the connection, and start trading from TradingView charts.
Apex allows up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously, providing up to $3,000,000 in total buying power. Each account operates independently.
Apex offers scaling up to $3,000,000 in total account size. Traders can add new accounts as they demonstrate consistent profitability.
Topstep offers scaling up to $600,000 total account size, with $50K increments based on consistent profitability over 3 months.
Apex offers bi-weekly payouts. The first payout has no minimum, while subsequent payouts require a $500 minimum.
Topstep offers weekly payouts with a $500 minimum. This is faster than Apex’s bi-weekly schedule.
Yes, Apex regularly offers discount codes, especially during Black Friday (up to 90% off), holidays, and through affiliate partners. Contact us for the latest codes.
The 90% discount code is typically available during Black Friday sales in November. Sign up for our newsletter or contact us on Telegram to be notified when it’s available.
Apex Trader Funding specializes in futures trading, not forex. For forex prop firm challenges, consider our forex account management service or other forex-specific prop firms.
Apex allows trading of E-mini S&P 500 (ES), Nasdaq 100 (NQ), Crude Oil (CL), Gold (GC), Treasury bonds (ZB, ZN, ZF, ZT), and many other CME Group futures.
The industry average pass rate is around 10-15%. With our professional passing service, we achieve a 95%+ success rate through proven strategies and expert risk management.
Yes, Apex remains one of the best value prop firms in 2026 due to low fees, large accounts, excellent profit splits, and flexible rules. It’s particularly worth it for traders who can pass consistently.
Topstep is worth it for traders who value education, support, and a structured development path. The higher fees are justified by the comprehensive resources and weekly payouts.
Apex has a 4.2/5 rating on Trustpilot with hundreds of reviews. Most positive reviews praise the low fees and generous profit splits, while some criticize customer support response times.
Topstep has a 4.5/5 rating on Trustpilot. Reviews consistently praise the educational resources, customer support, and reliable payouts.
Yes, our professional prop firm passing service can pass Apex challenges with a 95%+ success rate. We use proven strategies and strict risk management to meet all evaluation requirements.
Absolutely. We have extensive experience passing Topstep challenges and managing funded accounts. Our team understands all Topstep rules and requirements.
The best prop firm depends on your needs. For low fees and large accounts: Apex. For education and support: Topstep. For forex: consider FTMO or The Funded Trader. We can help you choose based on your specific goals.
Apex Trader Funding is generally the cheapest futures prop firm, with evaluations starting at just $49/month. Other budget options include Tradeify and Bulenox.
Apex works in three steps: 1) Purchase an evaluation account, 2) Reach the profit target while respecting drawdown limits over minimum trading days, 3) Pay activation fee and receive a funded account with profit splits.
Topstep uses a two-step process: 1) Pass the Trading Combine by hitting profit targets, 2) Trade the Express Account for verification, 3) Receive a funded account with 90/10 profit split and weekly payouts.
Reset fees vary by account size, typically ranging from $49-$179. Some promotional periods offer free resets. Our service includes free retries if we fail to pass your challenge.
Apex activation fees range from $85 for a $25K account to $225 for a $300K account. This one-time fee is paid after passing the evaluation to activate your funded account.
Yes, Apex allows news trading with certain restrictions. You can hold positions during news events, but be aware of increased volatility and potential slippage.
Topstep restricts trading during major economic releases. Check their current news trading policy as it may vary by account type and market conditions.
Apex publishes a payout leaderboard showing the biggest payouts to funded traders. This transparency demonstrates their legitimacy and the earning potential of funded accounts.
Apex has paid out millions to funded traders in 2026, with individual payouts ranging from $1,000 to $100,000+. The exact figures are published on their payout leaderboard.
Request payouts through your Apex dashboard. Payments are processed via ACH, wire transfer, or crypto within 24-48 hours. First payout has no minimum, subsequent payouts require $500 minimum.
Request weekly payouts through your Topstep dashboard. Payments are processed via ACH or wire transfer within 1-3 business days with a $500 minimum.
Yes, Apex offers an affiliate program where you can earn recurring commissions by referring new traders. Contact us to learn about our affiliate partnership opportunities.
Yes, Topstep has an affiliate program with competitive commissions. Both firms offer attractive referral opportunities for marketers and educators.
Apex follows CME Group holiday schedules. Markets are closed on major holidays including New Year’s Day, MLK Day, Presidents Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
The Apex $50K account requires a $3,000 profit target, has a $2,500 maximum drawdown, requires 7 minimum trading days, and follows the 30% consistency rule. Monthly fee is $79 with $110 activation.
The Apex $100K account requires a $6,000 profit target, has a $4,500 maximum drawdown, requires 7 minimum trading days, and follows the 30% consistency rule. Monthly fee is $129 with $150 activation.
The Apex $150K account requires a $9,000 profit target, has a $6,500 maximum drawdown, requires 7 minimum trading days, and follows the 30% consistency rule. Monthly fee is $179 with $175 activation.
The Apex PA (Performance Account) is the funded account you receive after passing the evaluation. It operates with real market data and allows you to earn profit splits on actual trading performance.
PA accounts have similar rules to evaluation accounts but with profit split opportunities. You must maintain the drawdown limits and can request bi-weekly payouts based on your profits.
Visit apextraderfunding.com, click Login, enter your email and password. From the dashboard, you can manage your accounts, view performance, and request payouts.
Visit topstep.com, click Login, enter your credentials. The dashboard provides access to your Trading Combine, Express Account, and funded account management.
Apex customer service is generally good, with email and chat support available. Response times can vary during peak periods. Topstep is known for superior customer support with faster response times.
Apex occasionally experiences platform downtime during high volatility periods. Check their status page or social media for real-time updates. Our service monitors platform status to avoid trading during outages.
Apex allows bi-weekly withdrawals with no minimum for the first payout and $500 minimum thereafter. Payments are processed within 24-48 hours via ACH, wire, or crypto.
The Apex consistency threshold is 30% — no single trading day can account for more than 30% of your total profits on most accounts. Some promotional accounts waive this rule entirely.
To be eligible for payouts, you must have a funded PA account, meet the minimum payout threshold ($500 after first payout), and have no rule violations. Payouts are requested through your dashboard.
The best strategy focuses on consistency: trade ES or NQ during optimal hours (9:30-11:30 AM EST), risk 1-2% per trade, aim for 5-10 small winning days, respect the 30% consistency rule, and avoid news events.
For Topstep, focus on patience and consistency: take only A+ setups, aim for $200-400 daily profits, use hard stop losses, trade during high-volume hours, and maintain a detailed trading journal.
Apex allows certain forms of automated trading and copy trading, but check their current rules as policies may change. Our prop firm passing EA is designed to comply with all current rules.
Apex includes basic data fees in the monthly subscription. Additional real-time data packages may be available for an extra fee depending on your platform choice.
After passing the evaluation: 1) Receive notification of success, 2) Pay the activation fee, 3) Complete account setup, 4) Receive PA account credentials, 5) Connect to your trading platform, 6) Start trading for profit splits.
Funded account requirements include: passing the evaluation, paying activation fee, maintaining drawdown limits, following consistency rules, and trading within allowed hours and instruments.
Profit targets vary by account size: $25K=$1,500, $50K=$3,000, $75K=$4,500, $100K=$6,000, $150K=$9,000, $250K=$15,000, $300K=$18,000.
Apex follows CME hours: Sunday 6 PM to Friday 5 PM EST, with daily breaks. Best trading hours are 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM EST for maximum liquidity and volatility.
Top alternatives include Topstep, MyFundedFutures, Tradeify, Bulenox, Take Profit Trader, Elite Trader Funding, Earn2Trade, and Funded Futures Network. Each has different strengths and pricing.
Our service works in 4 steps: 1) You purchase a challenge package, 2) We trade your evaluation account using proven strategies, 3) We pass the challenge within the promised timeframe, 4) You receive your funded account and can choose ongoing management.
Yes, All Prop Funding is a legitimate prop firm passing service with verified results on Myfxbook, 5,000+ successful challenge passes, 95%+ success rate, and hundreds of positive client reviews across multiple platforms.
Contact us via Telegram (@allpropfundings), WhatsApp (+44 7577 318770), Discord, Facebook, Instagram, or through our website contact form. We respond within minutes during business hours.
Most packages include free retries if we fail to pass. Elite package offers partial refunds. Full refund policy details are available on our refund policy page. We maintain a 95%+ success rate.
Absolutely! Once funded, you can trade the account yourself or continue with our funded account management service for consistent profits and payouts.
We support Apex Trader Funding, Topstep, FTMO, The Funded Trader, MyFundedFutures, Tradeify, Bulenox, Take Profit Trader, Elite Trader Funding, Earn2Trade, and 10+ other major prop firms.
Depending on the package: Starter (7-14 days), Professional (5-10 days), Elite (3-7 days). We prioritize speed while maintaining strict risk management to ensure success.
Yes, we use strict risk management protocols, never risk more than 1-2% per trade, and follow all prop firm rules meticulously. Our track record speaks for itself with 5,000+ successful passes.
Don’t let failed challenges hold you back. Our professional prop firm passing service has helped thousands of traders achieve their funding goals.