We tested 20 of the top prop trading firms to find the best challenges to reach funded trader status in 2025. Our research focused on areas like challenges and rules, fees and spreads, profit splits and scaling, platform usability, and financial markets. Here’s our final list of the 10 best prop firms.
Our list of the top prop firms are:
Prop trading lets you trade with a firm’s capital, so you’re not risking your own money. In exchange, you split your profits with the firm. With more and more prop firms popping up, you now have options with lower entry fees and higher profit splits. We reviewed the best prop firms, focusing on things like low challenge fees, access to different markets, fair profit-sharing models, and transparent trading rules.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
One Step, Two Step, 10 Day
Trading Platforms
Trade Locker, DXTrade
Profit Payout
80% - 90%
Why We Like DNA Funded
DNA Funded is our top choice for 2025 due to its low fees starting at $49, flexible challenge options, and profit splits of 80%–90%. Backed by DNA Markets, it ensures tight spreads and reliable platforms like DXTrade and TradeLocker.
With access to over 800 financial markets, including forex, stocks, and crypto, DNA Funded caters to both beginners and experienced traders aiming for competitive trading conditions and strong scaling opportunities.
Use PROPFIRMS25 to get 25% off challenge fees, making it cheaper to get started!
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
Based on our analysis of the top 20 firms, we found DNA Funded to be the best prop firm overall with a score of 97/100.
The new Australian prop trading firm is backed by the regulated forex broker DNA Markets, ensuring tight spreads and some of the best trading conditions, with prop traders access to capital through flexible one-step and two-step challenges.
As well as low spreads and a solid reputation, DNA Funded stands out with competitive challenge fees, a generous 80% – 90% profit split, and reliable trading platforms like TradeLocker and DXTrade.
It provides great market access to hundreds of trading instruments, including forex markets, commodities, indices, stocks, and cryptocurrencies.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
DNA Funded offers three challenge types, catering to various trading styles:
| DNA Funded Account Type | Challenge Fees | Account Sizes | Early Payout Down from 14 to 7 Days Addon | Profit Split Increase from 80% to 90% Addon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Helix (1 Step) | $59 - $1,451 | 5K - 200K | ✅ | ❌ |
| Double Helix (2 Step) | $49 - $1,295 | 5K - 200K | ❌ | ✅ |
| Pro Challenge | $99 - $714 | 10K - 100K | ✅ | ✅ |
Markets and Leverage
DNA Funded provides access to over 800 forex, commodities, indices, stocks, and crypto markets (with restrictions on crypto in the Pro Challenge).
Leverage options go up to 1:50 for forex (Double Helix) and 1:30 for other challenges.
Trading Platforms
You have two platform options when prop trading with DNA Funded:
Trust and Community
DNA Funded is backed by DNA Markets, a well-known ASIC-regulated broker, ensuring tight spreads and reliable execution. While DNA Funded is still new, its connection to DNA Markets boosts its credibility hugely.
The prop firm is also developing an active trading community through its Discord channel, offering a space for traders to connect and share insights.
Our Verdict on DNA Funded
DNA Funded is the best prop trading firm for 2025 even in the early stages of launch thanks to its flexible challenges, low fees, and an 80% – 90% profit share. Backed by DNA Markets, it provides reliable market access across forex, commodities, indices, stocks, and crypto. You can read our full evaluation on our DNA funded review page.
With user-friendly platforms like TradeLocker and growing community support, DNA Funded is the best prop firm for both new and experienced traders looking for a new challenge to become a funded trader.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
Two Step
Trading Platforms
BrightFunded Platform
Profit Payout
80% - 100%
Why We Like BrightFunded
BrightFunded earns second place with its flexible two-phase challenges, profit splits scaling to 100%, and innovative add-ons for faster payouts. Its Trade2Earn loyalty program rewards active traders with free evaluations, while the firm’s broad market access and unlimited scaling provide long-term growth potential.
With account sizes up to $200,000 and customisable trading rules, BrightFunded is ideal for consistent traders seeking rewards and scalability.
Use PROPFIRMS26 for 26% off your evaluation fee, so you can start trading with a lower upfront cost.
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
BrightFunded earnt the second spot on our list scoring 95/100 for its flexible challenge options, scalable accounts, and a loyalty program designed to reward trader activity.
With account sizes ranging from $5,000 to $200,000, BrightFunded offers a structured two-phase evaluation process and unlimited scaling for consistent traders.
The firm’s standout features include customisable add-ons, allowing traders to reduce payout cycles, increase profit splits, and eliminate minimum trading days, along with the unique Trade2Earn loyalty program.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
BrightFunded provides traders with a straightforward two-phase evaluation process to reach funded trader status. The evaluation challenges are structured to assess consistency, discipline, and risk management.
Once funded, traders receive an 80% profit split, which can scale to 100% through BrightFunded’s unlimited scaling program.
Account sizes range from $5,000 to $200,000, with fees starting at €55. Additional customisation options are available, such as faster payouts and increased profit shares, allowing traders to tailor their challenges to their needs.
This flexible approach, combined with competitive targets and scaling opportunities, makes BrightFunded an appealing choice for traders aiming to manage larger capital with reduced financial risk.
Markets and Leverage
BrightFunded provides access to a wide range of financial instruments:
Leverage varies across asset classes, with up to 50:1 for forex, 20:1 for indices, and 10:1 for cryptocurrencies.
Trading Platforms
BrightFunded uses its proprietary trading platform, BrightFunded Trading App, tailored for both manual and algorithmic traders. Key features include:
While BrightFunded’s platform is robust, traders familiar with industry staples like MT4 or MT5 may need an adjustment period.
Trust and Community
BrightFunded is an independent prop firm but has established itself as a reliable provider with strong user reviews. A 4.7/5 Trustpilot rating highlights its emphasis on transparency, responsive customer service, and prompt payouts.
The firm has an active trading community on Discord with 16k + members, where you can share strategies, trade ideas, and market insights. This community focus fosters collaboration and support among traders.
Our Verdict on BrightFunded
BrightFunded is a top-tier prop firm offering flexible challenges, high-profit scaling, and access to multiple financial markets. Its proprietary platform, transparent rules, and no daily drawdown limits make it ideal for traders seeking long-term growth opportunities.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
One Step, Two Step, 7 Day
Trading Platforms
MT4, MT5, DXtrade
Profit Payout
80%
Why We Like Blueberry Funded
Blueberry Funded stands out for its low challenge fees starting at $40, access to over 100 financial markets, and competitive scaling options up to $2 million.
Its three challenge types—One Step, Two Step, and Rapid—cater to various trading styles, and the firm’s backing by ASIC-regulated Blueberry Markets adds credibility. With support for platforms like MT4 and MT5, it’s a strong choice for traders who value flexibility and advanced trading tools.
Apply PROPFIRMS25 to get 25% off challenge fees, so you can access 100+ markets for less!
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
Blueberry Funded is a prop trading firm that came in third place in our rankings with a score 93/100. Funded traders gain a 80% profit split, and to get to funded status, they can choose from three challenge types—1 Step, 2 Step, and Rapid—designed to suit different trading styles.
With account sizes ranging from $5,000 to $200,000, Blueberry Funded provides flexibility for both new and experienced traders, with challenge fees starting at just $40.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
Blueberry Funded offers three main challenge types:
Markets and Leverage
Blueberry Funded offers access to 128 financial markets, including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
The prop firm is one of the few to allow crypto trading, with leverage options up to 1:50 for forex and 1:30 for other assets. This broad market access provides ample opportunities for traders to diversify their strategies.
Trading Platforms
Blueberry Funded offers three trading platforms:
Trust and Community
While Blueberry Funded is a newer prop firm, it is backed by Blueberry Markets, a well-known, ASIC-regulated broker with a strong reputation.
The prop firm also provides an active Discord community with over 11,000 members, providing peer support and financial market insights.
Our Verdict on Blueberry Funded
Blueberry Funded offers competitive pricing, diverse market access, and three well-structured challenges, making it a strong option for both beginner and advanced traders.
The availability of crypto trading and its scaling plan to $2 million give it a unique edge, though the lack of educational resources and limited payment options may be drawbacks for some traders.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
One Step, Two Step
Trading Platforms
MT4, MT5, cTrader
Profit Payout
80% - 95%
Why We Like FundedNext
FundedNext provides a fast track to profitability with profit splits starting at 60% and scaling up to 90% – use exclusive discount code PROPFIRMS to receive a 120% discount after completing the challenge!
Its Evaluation and Express accounts cater to diverse trading styles, with immediate earnings from day one in the evaluation phase. With a personal account manager for support and scaling options up to $4 million, FundedNext is a strong choice for traders looking for flexibility and growth potential.
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
FundedNext has quickly become a recognised player in the prop trading space, earning a score of 92/100 and fourth place on our best prop firms list.
Launched in 2022, it offers a high profit share, flexible trading challenges, and fast profit earning from the start of its evaluation phase.
PropFirms readers can take advantage of our exclusive discount code, PROPFIRMS, to receive a 120% refund after completing the evaluation process.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
FundedNext offers two main account types: Evaluation and Express. The Evaluation account requires traders to pass two phases, with a 10% profit target in phase one and a 5% target in phase two.
Express accounts, on the other hand, only need a single-step challenge with a 25% profit target and no time limits. Both accounts come with a profit share starting at 60%, which can go up to 90% with consistent performance.
The Non-Consistency Express account option allows more trading flexibility, while the Consistency model offers stricter rules but larger potential account sizes.
Markets and Leverage
FundedNext provides access to 46 forex pairs, 12 indices, and 4 commodities. All markets are traded via CFDs, with leverage up to 100:1 for forex and indices, while cryptocurrencies are limited to 2:1 due to their higher volatility.
Trading Platforms
FundedNext uses MetaTrader 4 as its trading platform. Though it is considered basic by some, MT4’s reliability, flexibility, and broad range of trading tools keep it as the preferred choice for many prop traders.
It allows for custom indicators and supports automated trading strategies via expert advisors.
Trust and Community
FundedNext scores well on Trustpilot with a 4.6/5 rating, reflecting its reputation for fast payouts and reliable support.
It has an engaged community on platforms like Discord and Telegram, where traders discuss strategies, challenges, and more. Additionally, the firm provides a dedicated account manager for each trader, enhancing user experience and support.
Our Verdict on FundedNext
FundedNext offers a fast track to profitability, with an immediate 15% profit from day one and the potential to scale up to $4 million in capital.
While the product range is somewhat limited, the ability to earn up to 90% profit share and access support through a personal account manager makes FundedNext an appealing choice for serious forex and CFD traders.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
One Step, Two Step, Three Step
Trading Platforms
ThinkTrader + TradingView, MT5
Profit Payout
Up to 90%
Why We Like ThinkCapital
ThinkCapital combines affordability with flexibility, offering fees starting at $39 and profit splits up to 90%.
Its three challenge types—Lightning, Dual Step, and Nexus—suit a range of trading styles, and the integration of ThinkTrader with TradingView enhances analysis capabilities. Backed by broker reliability, ThinkCapital provides diverse market access and flexible leverage.
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
ThinkCapital is a broker-backed prop trading firm that balances competitive trading conditions with flexibility in account types and evaluation challenges, taking fifth place with a score of 91/100 in our list of the best prop firms.
The prop firm scores 91/100 with up to 90% profit splits, account sizes from $5,000 to $200,000, and bi-weekly payouts. ThinkCapital offers three evaluation challenges tailored to different trading styles: Lightning (1-step), Dual Step (2-step), and Nexus (3-step).
Prop Challenges and Accounts
ThinkCapital’s challenges cater to diverse trading preferences. The Lightning Challenge provides a straightforward one-step evaluation with a 10% profit target, while the Dual Step Challenge offers more structure with two evaluation phases.
The Nexus Challenge focuses on advanced risk management and consistency with a three-step evaluation and an 18% total profit target.
| ThinkCapital Challenge | Lightning | Dual Step | Nexus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evaluation Process | One Step | Two Step | Three Step |
| Fees (Min - Max) | $59 - $949 | $59 - $949 | $39 - $649 |
| Account Sizes | $5,000 - $200,000 | $5,000 - $200,000 | $5,000 - $200,000 |
| Total Profit Target (%) | 10% | 13% | 18% |
| Daily Loss Limit (%) | 3% | 4% | 4% |
| Max Loss Limit (%) | 6% | 8% | 8% |
| Profit Split | Up to 90% | Up to 90% | Up to 90% |
| Payout Frequency | 14 days | 14 days | 14 days |
| Leverage | 1:30 | 1:100 | 1:100 |
Markets and Leverage
ThinkCapital offers diverse financial instruments, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Leverage varies depending on the platform and challenge type, ranging from 1:30 to 1:100 for forex and 1:2 for cryptocurrencies.
Trading Platforms
ThinkCapital offers ThinkTrader, which integrates directly with TradingView, giving you access to advanced charting tools and seamless trading execution. If you’re familiar with TradingView, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to place trades straight from charts, use built-in indicators, or even set up automated strategies. The integration means you can focus on analysis without jumping between platforms.
For those who prefer more traditional platforms, MT5 is also available. It’s a solid choice if you want automated trading via Expert Advisors or need access to multi-threaded backtesting for testing your strategy. Both options cater to different trading styles—whether you’re into manual trading or algorithmic setups.
Trust and Community
ThinkCapital holds a Trustpilot score of 4.5/5, with users praising its transparent trading rules, fast payouts, and responsive support. The firm’s 9,000-member Discord community offers traders a platform to share strategies and success stories.
Our Verdict on ThinkCapital
ThinkCapital is a strong choice for traders seeking competitive evaluation challenges and flexible account options. Its three-step Nexus Challenge stands out for experienced traders, while the Lightning Challenge appeals to those new to prop trading.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
Two Step
Trading Platforms
MT4, MT5, cTrader
Profit Payout
80%
Why We Like IC Funded
IC Funded is the top forex prop firm thanks to ultra-low spreads starting from 0 pips and competitive fees. Backed by IC Markets, it offers robust trading conditions with platforms like MT4, MT5, and cTrader.
With account sizes up to $500,000 and profit splits of 75%–80%, IC Funded is a great option for forex-focused traders seeking a trusted and cost-effective trading environment.
Enter PROPFIRMS25 at checkout to get 25% off challenge fees!
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
IC Funded came in sixth place with a score of 90/100, thanks to its low audition fees and strong connection to IC Markets.
As a sister company to one of the best forex brokers in the world, the prop firm is able to provide spreads as low as 0 pips plus a competitive commission fee of $3.50 per side.
IC Funded is a great option for those looking for the tightest spreads available, and funded accounts are rewarded with a profit split of 75% to 80% after passing the two-phase evaluation process.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
IC Funded offers a total of seven evaluation levels, with account sizes ranging from $5,000 to $500,000. Our full IC Funded Review found the audition fees to be competitive, allowing traders to demonstrate their skills without risking significant capital.
Markets and Leverage
Our research found that IC Funded offers a broad range of financial markets, including:
Leverage options vary, with up to 50:1 available for forex and gold, and 10:1 for indices and other commodities.
Trading Platforms
IC Funded provides access to the three most popular trading platforms: MT4, MT5, and cTrader. Each platform is equipped with unique features that cater to different trading styles.
Trust and Community
IC Funded is backed by IC Markets, a well-established and regulated broker. This connection enhances trust and provides traders with confidence in the firm’s reliability.
While IC Funded is not regulated itself, the oversight from IC Markets by regulators like ASIC in Australia adds a layer of security. The firm fosters a supportive trading community, allowing traders to engage and share insights.
Our Verdict on IC Funded
IC Funded is one of the best prop firms for traders seeking access to funded accounts with low entry costs and a solid profit-sharing model.
The clear evaluation process, diverse market access, and support for popular trading platforms make it a top choice in the prop trading space.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
Two Step
Trading Platforms
MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
Profit Payout
80% - 90%
Why We Like OANDA
OANDA Prop Trader is a beginner-friendly option, offering low fees from $35 and profit splits up to 90%. Backed by the trusted OANDA brand, it provides access to forex, indices, and commodities via the reliable MT5 platform.
With flexible challenge options and account sizes ranging from $5,000 to $500,000, it’s a solid entry point for traders new to prop challenges.
Use the discount code PROPFIRMS15 to get 15% off evaluation fees, making it one of the cheapest ways to get funded!
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
OANDA Prop Trader is ranked seventh with a score of 85/100, and while suited to all levels of trading experience, is a great prop firm for beginners new to prop challenges.
With affordable entry fees starting from just $35 and profit splits reaching up to 90%, OANDA provides a straightforward and accessible path to funded trading.
Backed by the trusted OANDA brand, traders can access a range of markets including forex, indices, and commodities, all on the reliable MetaTrader 5 platform.
Whether you’re looking to start small or aim for larger profits, OANDA’s flexible challenges make it an attractive option for traders of all levels.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
OANDA Prop Trader offers two styles of prop challenges:
| Feature | Classic Challenge | Boost Challenge |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | 5K, 10K, 25K, 50K, 100k, 188K, 250K, 500K | 10K, 50K, 100K |
| Challenge Fees | $35 – $2,400 | $99 - $699 |
| Profit Share | 80% | 80% (first payout), then 90% |
| Phase 1 Profit Target | 5% for 5K & 10K accounts, 8% for others | 10% |
| Phase 2 Profit Target | 5% | 5% |
| Max Daily Loss | 5% - Dynamic | 5% - Fixed based on Initial balance |
| Max Total Loss | 10% - Trailing Drawdown | 10% - Static Drawdown |
| Refund of Challenge Fee | Yes, after the first profit payout | Yes, after the first profit payout |
| Who It’s For | Beginner traders | Experienced traders |
| Merging of Accounts | Yes | No |
| Minimum Payout Request | $200 | 2% of initial balance |
Markets and Leverage
OANDA provides access to 56 instruments, including forex, indices, and commodities. Leverage goes up to 100:1 for forex, and 50:1 for indices and commodities, offering traders ample market exposure.
Trading Platforms
OANDA Prop Trader uses MetaTrader 5 (MT5), a popular platform with advanced charting tools and support for automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs). While MT5 is a solid choice for most traders, some may find the lack of platform variety limiting.
Trust and Community
Backed by the well-established OANDA brand, this prop firm benefits from a strong reputation within the trading industry. Although OANDA Prop Trader isn’t regulated, its connection to the larger OANDA brand lends it credibility and trust.
Our Verdict on OANDA
OANDA Prop Trader offers a solid option for both beginners and experienced traders, with flexible account sizes and competitive profit splits of up to 90%.
The low entry fees, especially in the Classic Challenge, make it accessible for newer traders, while the Boost Challenge provides higher returns for those seeking larger profits. However, the limited platform choice and lack of cryptocurrency trading may be a downside for some.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
Instant, Lightning, One Step, Two Step, Three Step
Trading Platforms
MT4, MT5, DXTrade
Profit Payout
80% - 90%
Why We Like FXIFY
FXIFY is a top instant funding prop firm, allowing traders to start with up to $50,000 in capital immediately. It also offers Lightning, One Step, Two Step, and Three Step challenges, with profit splits up to 90% and a scaling plan to $4M.
Backed by FXPIG, FXIFY ensures competitive pricing and fast execution, while its strong trader community on Discord provides additional customer support.
Use our latest prop coupon code PROPFIRMS15 for 15% off challenge fees.
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
FXIFY scored 83/100 for its instant funding accounts and flexible evaluation challenges. You can start with up to $50,000 in capital immediately, making it one of the best prop firms if you want to skip the entire evaluation process and trade straight away.
For those who prefer an evaluation, FXIFY also offers Lightning, One Step, Two Step, and Three Step challenges, with scalable account sizes and profit splits up to 90%.
The scaling plan allows you to grow your accounts up to $4M, but some trader reviews have raised concerns about payout speed for larger accounts and cost transparency.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
FXIFY offers four funding options, including a direct instant funding account and three evaluation challenges:
Markets and Leverage
FXIFY provides access to 100+ trading instruments, including forex pairs, indices, commodities like gold and crude oil, major stocks (MT5 only), and cryptocurrencies (MT4 & MT5 only).
Standard leverage is 30:1 for forex and gold, 10:1 for indices, and 2:1 for stocks and crypto, with an optional upgrade to 50:1 leverage for forex and gold.
Trust and Community
FXIFY is backed by FXPIG, a trusted forex broker, ensuring competitive pricing and fast execution. The firm has built a strong trader community, with over 38,000 members on Discord and a 4.2/5 TrustPilot rating.
While FXIFY generally receives positive reviews for its flexible account options and profit splits, some traders report delays in payouts for larger accounts and limited transparency on spreads.
Our Verdict on FXIFY
FXIFY is the best prop firm for instant funding, offering traders capital from day one without a challenge. With profit splits up to 90%, flexible evaluation options, and a scaling plan that can grow accounts to $4M, it took spot number eight on our best prop trading firms list for 2025.
Visit FXIFY
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
Two Step
Trading Platforms
TopstepX, NinjaTrader, TradingView, and more.
Profit Payout
90% - 100%
Why We Like Topstep
Topstep is the best prop firm for futures traders, offering profit splits of 100% on the first $10,000 earned and 90% thereafter.
Its structured three-step evaluation process focuses on risk management, and platforms like NinjaTrader and TopstepX cater to different trading styles.
With no time limits to pass the Trading Combine, Topstep provides flexibility and a professional trading environment for futures-focused traders.
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
Topstep earned a score of 83/100 in our rankings and is the best option for traders focused on futures markets.
With a structured three-step evaluation process, Topstep allows traders to progress at their own pace, offering profit splits of up to 100% on the first $10,000 and 90% thereafter.
Its good range of trading platform options, including NinjaTrader and TopstepX, and emphasis on risk management make it a strong choice for futures traders.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
Topstep offers a structured, three-stage evaluation process for futures traders, designed to progressively test and reward consistent trading performance.
Markets and Leverage
Topstep exclusively offers futures markets, which differ from forex or CFD markets because there are no spreads involved. Instead, traders pay exchange fees, commissions, and clearing fees for each trade. These fees vary depending on the platform and data feed used, but they generally include:
The maximum leverage or lot size traders can hold is determined by their account size, and Topstep traders also consider monthly data fees, especially in the Live Funded Account stage, where access to professional futures market data can cost $135 per exchange.
Trading Platforms
Topstep offers a variety of platforms catering to different trader needs. Free options include TopstepX, which is commission-free, and Quantower, known for its low-latency data.
Tradovate and TradingView offer multi-device compatibility, while T4 supports mobile trading. These platforms are available during both the Trading Combine and Live Funded stages, providing flexibility based on trading style.
For advanced features, NinjaTrader is available for free during the Combine and Express Funded stages, but it incurs a $99 monthly fee at the Live Funded stage.
Paid options like R|Trader Pro and ATAS offer specialised tools for order flow analysis and advanced charting, providing options for more experienced traders.
Each platform connects to different data feeds, such as Rithmic and CQG, ensuring reliable market data for precision trading.
Trust and Community
Topstep has a strong reputation, with a 4.6 TrustPilot rating from over 5,000 reviews. Their educational platform, TopstepTV, provides live coaching and market analysis, while their active Discord community of 86,000 traders offers additional support and insight.
Our Verdict on Topstep
Topstep is a solid choice for futures traders, offering flexible platforms, a clear evaluation process, and generous profit splits.
While monthly fees and data costs can add up, the firm’s transparent structure and no time limit make it an excellent option for traders seeking a professional futures trading environment.
Prop Firm Score
Challenge Types
Two Step
Trading Platforms
MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade
Profit Payout
80% - 90%
Why We Like FTMO
FTMO offers a popular scaling plan, flexible account types, and profit splits up to 90% for consistent performance. Its two-step evaluation process balances achievable profit targets with manageable risk limits.
Supporting platforms like MT4, MT5, and cTrader, FTMO is an excellent choice for traders aiming to grow their capital through scaling and long-term consistency.
Pros & Cons
Prop Firm Details
FTMO is one of the leading prop firms scoring 83/100 thanks to its great scaling plan and offering. It provides traders with an 80% profit split, increasing to 90% for consistent performance.
The prop firm offers a structured two-step evaluation process with clear profit targets and loss limits. FTMO is a strong choice for traders looking for growth opportunities and flexibility across account types.
Prop Challenges and Accounts
FTMO offers three main account types:
The audition fees range from €155 to €1,080, depending on the account size. FTMO offers an automatic scaling plan, increasing account sizes by 25% every four months if traders meet a 10% profit target. The firm supports accounts up to $2 million through this plan.
Markets and Leverage
FTMO provides access to a diverse range of financial markets, including 28 major and minor forex pairs, popular commodities like gold, silver, and oil, as well as global indices such as the US30, GER40, and UK100.
For traders interested in cryptocurrencies, FTMO offers access to assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. Additionally, the platform supports trading in select global stocks, including leading companies like Apple, Amazon, and Tesla.
Leverage varies depending on the account:
Trading Platforms
FTMO supports four main platforms:
Trust and Community
FTMO has earned a 4.9/5 rating on Trustpilot with over 5,000 positive reviews. The firm’s social media presence on Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter is active, focusing on educational content, tips, and trader interviews.
FTMO’s support is available 24/7 via live chat, phone, and email, making them accessible and reliable for traders.
Our Verdict on FTMO
FTMO provides a great automatic scaling plan and offers solid account flexibility through Standard, Aggressive, and Swing options.
With a two-step evaluation process and transparent rules, it’s a top choice for serious traders aiming for growth and consistency. However, the commission charges on trades may be drawbacks for some.
These firms are considered the best based on how they perform across several key areas that are important for prop traders. Here’s why they made our top list:
We have a separate list of instant funding prop firms for traders looking for faster turnover of the competition.
To become a prop trader, you need to sign up with a proprietary trading firm, complete their evaluation process, and meet specific trading requirements. Most firms require traders to pass a challenge or evaluation phase before providing access to a funded account. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started:
Following these steps can help you successfully become a prop trader, using the firm’s capital to trade and keep a portion of the profits you generate.
Prop trading comes with several risks. One key risk is drawdown limits: prop firms impose strict daily or overall drawdown limits that, if breached, can result in disqualification. High-pressure evaluations also pose a challenge, where failing to meet profit targets can lead to the loss of entry fees without any payout. Additionally, some firms have restrictive rules, such as limiting trading styles or requiring strict risk management, which might not align with every trader’s strategy. Market volatility is another factor, as even the most skilled traders can face significant losses in unpredictable market conditions. Finally, some prop firms lack transparency, so researching their reputation and rules is crucial before signing up.
We developed a guide on our risk management page to explore this area further for those new to the industry.
Proprietary trading (prop trading) allows traders to use virtual funds in financial markets like forex, shares, and commodities, after paying an initial evaluation fee. The aim is to meet specific profit targets to qualify for a funded account, where real money is provided by the prop firm. Profits are then shared between the trader and the firm, while any losses are covered by the prop company.
Many prop firms have ties to CFD brokers and use them as their providers for pricing and spreads. For example, DNA Funded is backed by Eightcap, a regulated CFD broker. However, when you’re doing the challenge, you’re in a simulated environment rather than live trading, so the prop firm itself isn’t acting as a broker. Only after you pass the challenge and get funded do you start trading in real markets, often through their broker partners.
View our full list of broker backed prop firms.
The main advantage of using a prop firm over a real trading account is limiting personal financial risk. With a prop firm, you only risk the initial evaluation fee, while losses beyond that are covered by the firm. Once you qualify for a funded account, you receive a profit share without risking your own capital. Additionally, it’s a great way to refine your trading strategies before committing to a live forex or CFD account with your own funds.
View the types of prop trading accounts available to make sure you select the right one for your needs.
The most trusted prop firms are DNA Funded, IC Funded, and OANDA Prop Trader, based on key factors such as reliability, user reviews, and trading conditions. DNA Funded is backed by Eightcap, ensuring low fees and an 80% profit split. IC Funded offers tight spreads, low entry costs, and strong backing from IC Markets. OANDA is ideal for beginner prop traders with low challenge fees and profit splits up to 90%. Each firm is known for transparency and trader support.
It’s important to understand how these firms make money prior to opening an account.
The prop firms that offer the fastest payouts include DNA Funded, IC Funded, and Funded Trading Plus. DNA Funded allows traders to request profits as early as 14 days after their first trade, with flexible withdrawal options. IC Funded offers bi-weekly or on-demand withdrawals starting 14 days after the initial trade and has an outstanding crypto prop trading range. Funded Trading Plus also provides quick access to profits with instant funding and profit splits of up to 100%, making it another option for traders seeking fast payouts.
DNA Funded and IC Funded can be better options than FTMO, depending on what you’re looking for. DNA Funded has lower fees starting at $49, an 80% – 90% profit split, and flexible challenge options. IC Funded, on the other hand, offers super-low spreads from 0 pips, strong ties to IC Markets, and popular platforms like MT4, MT5, and cTrader. Both firms offer lower costs and better trading conditions than FTMO, especially when it comes to forex prop trading.
Top prop trading firms with the highest profit splits include Topstep, which offers up to 100% profit split on the first $10,000 earned and 90% after that. Funded Trading Plus provides profit splits that can go up to 100%, making it a strong option for traders. OANDA Prop Trader offers up to 90% profit split for their Boost Challenge, aimed at experienced traders offering an excellent futures prop trading facility.
While high profit splits are appealing, it’s crucial to also consider other factors such as challenge difficulty, fees, trading conditions, and customer support. Some firms with higher splits may have stricter rules or higher fees, so weigh the overall offering against your trading goals.
To find the best prop firms worldwide, we evaluated 20 top prop trading firms, focusing on challenges, platform usability, payouts and targets, and cost structure. By personally testing each firm’s challenges, platforms, and trading conditions, we narrowed the list to the 10 best prop firms based on essential metrics.
Our comprehensive testing and analysis considered user experience, platform accessibility, and transparent fee structures, ensuring a balanced and realistic set of options for traders. Following our methodology allowed us to highlight firms offering the most achievable challenges and optimal profit-sharing terms, providing you with a clear, data-driven guide to selecting a prop trading firm that suits your needs.
