Looking to trade futures with a prop firm? Here’s a quick breakdown of the top 7 proprietary trading firms offering futures funding programs. These firms provide traders with access to capital, advanced tools, and profit-sharing opportunities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, this guide will help you compare options and choose the best fit.

Key Takeaways:

FTMO: Offers accounts up to $200,000, with a two-phase evaluation and up to 90% profit splits.
TopStep: Subscription-based with accounts up to $150,000 and a single-step evaluation. Keep 100% of the first $10,000 in profits.
OneUp Trader: Flexible accounts up to $250,000 with a 90% profit split and fast withdrawals.
Apex Trader Funding: Accounts up to $300,000 with 100% profit on the first $25,000 and a simple one-step evaluation.
SurgeTrader: Shut down in 2024, but previously offered real-money accounts with a 90% profit split.
Earn2Trade: Focuses on risk management with two evaluation programs and scaling opportunities up to $400,000.
The Funded Trader: Competitive 95% profit splits, account scaling up to $1.5M, and multiple evaluation options.

Quick Comparison Table:

Firm	Account Sizes	Profit Split	Evaluation Type	Starting Fee	Notable Features
FTMO	$10K–$200K (scalable to $2M)	Up to 90%	Two-phase challenge	$155+	Flexible trading styles, EAs allowed
TopStep	$50K–$150K	100% (first $10K), 90%	Single-step combine	$49/month	Subscription model, strong support
OneUp Trader	$25K–$250K	100% (first $10K), 90%	10-day evaluation	$125+	Fast withdrawals, free NinjaTrader
Apex Trader Funding	$25K–$300K	100% (first $25K), 90%	One-step evaluation	$147+	Manage up to 20 accounts, no deadlines
SurgeTrader (Closed)	Up to $1M	90%	Single-phase audition	N/A	Real-money accounts (before closure)
Earn2Trade	$25K–$100K (scalable to $400K)	80%	TCP/Gauntlet Mini	$150+/month	Education-focused, strict risk rules
The Funded Trader	$100K–$1.5M	Up to 95%	Multi-step challenges	$360+	High scaling, multiple challenge types

How to Choose:

For Beginners: Start with TopStep or Earn2Trade for lower costs and educational resources.
For Experienced Traders: Consider FTMO, Apex Trader Funding, or The Funded Trader for higher account sizes and profit splits.
Budget-Friendly Options: TopStep offers affordable monthly plans starting at $49.

Explore the detailed breakdown of each firm in the sections below to find the best fit for your trading goals.

Best Prop Firms for Futures Trading in 2025 (Trust, Cost …

1. FTMO

FTMO

FTMO funds skilled traders with accounts ranging from $10,000 to $200,000, with the potential to scale up to $2 million ^[1]. Traders can manage up to two $200,000 accounts at the same time, giving them a combined allocation of $400,000 ^[1].

Account Types and Fees

FTMO provides different account tiers to suit various trading styles and experience levels:

Account Size	Challenge Fee	Max Daily Loss	Max Total Loss	Profit Target
$10,000	$155	$500	$1,000	$1,000
$25,000	$375	$1,250	$2,500	$2,500
$50,000	$540	$2,500	$5,000	$5,000
$100,000	$820	$5,000	$10,000	$10,000
$200,000	$1,080	$10,000	$20,000	$20,000

Evaluation Process

FTMO’s evaluation process consists of two key phases ^[1]:

FTMO Challenge
- Requires at least 4 trading days.
- Traders must hit a 10% profit target.
- Losses must stay within defined limits.
- Proper risk management is essential.
Verification Stage
- Profit target is reduced to 5% (half of the Challenge phase).
- A minimum of 4 trading days is still required.
- There’s no time limit for completing this stage.

FTMO offers a profit-sharing model where traders can keep up to 90% of their earnings ^[2]. With over 240,000 trading accounts created, the platform has established a strong reputation ^[2].

"FTMO changes lives, if you stick to your plan, be disciplined, and be consistent in the market. If I can do it, you can also do it. Don’t give up on your dream."
– Daisy from Kenya ^[2]

This profit-sharing structure, combined with other benefits, makes FTMO an appealing option for serious traders.

Trading Features

FTMO supports a variety of trading approaches, making it suitable for different strategies:

Trading Styles: All methods that reflect real market conditions are allowed.
Automation: Trading robots (EAs) are permitted but must be monitored to avoid exceeding capital limits ^[3].
Risk Management: While stop-loss orders aren’t mandatory, maintaining strict risk control is required.
Time Flexibility: There are no strict deadlines for meeting profit targets during either evaluation phase.

FTMO also provides a range of tools and educational resources, making it a solid choice for traders aiming to grow their skills and succeed in the long term ^[2]. Its supportive environment and features make it a strong contender when comparing trading firms.

2. TopStep

TopStep

TopStep, headquartered in Chicago, is a prop trading firm catering to futures traders with account sizes ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. Since 2020, the firm has paid out over $16 million to traders and boasts an impressive 4.6/5 rating on Trustpilot from over 5,500 reviews ^[4].

Account Options and Costs

TopStep offers three account sizes, each with specific fees and targets:

Account Size	Trading Combine Fee	Express Funded Fee	Profit Target	Max Loss Limit
$50,000	$49/month	$149	$3,000	$2,000
$100,000	$99/month	$149	$6,000	$3,000
$150,000	$149/month	$149	$9,000	$4,500

Evaluation Process

TopStep’s evaluation is built around a single-step Trading Combine, focusing on consistent profitability and disciplined risk management ^[5]. Key requirements include:

Hitting profit targets without breaching the maximum loss limits.
Adhering to daily loss limits ($1,000 for $50K accounts, $1,500 for $100K accounts, and $2,000 for $150K accounts).
Avoiding trades where a single position accounts for more than 50% of the profit target.
Closing all positions by 3:10 PM Central Time each day.

Traders retain 100% of their profits up to the first $10,000. Beyond that, profits are split 90/10 in favor of the trader ^[4].

Trading Features and Support

TopStep provides a range of tools and resources to support traders, such as:

Access to 32 futures markets.
Compatibility with automated strategies and news trading.
Free platform options, including Tradovate and TradingView.
24/7 customer support.
Educational content via TopstepTV, which has over 120,000 subscribers.
A vibrant Discord community with more than 86,000 members ^[4].

Additional Costs to Keep in Mind

Traders should also account for these extra costs:

Futures exchange data fees: $135 per exchange per month.
NinjaTrader platform fee: $99 per month (if selected).
Depth of Market (Level 2) data: $39 per month.
Reset fees: $49 for a $50K account, $99 for a $100K account, and $149 for a $150K account ^[4].

These details showcase TopStep’s structured approach to supporting futures traders and fostering success in the prop trading space.

3. OneUp Trader

OneUp Trader

OneUp Trader, established in 2017, boasts a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot, backed by over 1,010 reviews ^[7].

Account Options and Pricing

OneUp Trader provides multiple account tiers to suit various trading needs:

Account Size	Monthly Fee	Max Contracts	Profit Target	Trailing Drawdown
$25,000	$125	3	$1,500	$1,500
$50,000	$150	6	$3,000	$2,500
$100,000	$300	12	$6,000	$3,500
$150,000	$350	15	$9,000	$5,000
$250,000	$650	25	$15,000	$5,500

Evaluation Process

Traders must prove their profitability over a minimum of 10 trading days ^[8]. The main requirements include:

Trading hours from 5 PM CT to 3:15 PM CT, with all positions closed by 3:15 PM CT.
Consistent trading performance.
Achieving profit targets without exceeding trailing drawdown limits.

A key rule is maintaining consistency: the combined net profits from your top three trading days should not exceed 80% of your highest single-day net profit ^[8].

OneUp Trader offers a straightforward profit-sharing structure:

100% of the first $10,000 in profits.
90% split on earnings beyond that ^[11].
Minimum withdrawal of $1,000, processed within 1-2 business days.
Payments are available via Bank Wire or Cryptocurrency (with a 5% fee for crypto) ^[11].

Trading Platform Support

The platform supports a variety of trading tools, including a free NinjaTrader license, compatibility with R|Trader and R|Trader Pro, as well as access to trading simulators and demo accounts ^[7].

Additional Features

Some added perks include:

Manage up to three evaluation and three funded accounts under a single ID ^[6].
Express Funding option for previously terminated accounts, allowing a 5-day evaluation ^[9].
Lower reset fees: $50 for $25K/$50K accounts and $100 for larger accounts ^[10].
Option to pay 50% of the evaluation fee upfront ^[10].

User feedback highlights the platform’s ease of use, clear rules, and responsive support team. Notably, 81% of reviewers on Trustpilot have given it a 5-star rating ^[7].

4. Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding has quickly made a mark in the prop trading world since its launch in 2021. With a 4.8/5.0 Trustpilot rating from over 2,000 reviews, it stands out as a popular choice among traders ^[13].

Apex offers funded accounts ranging from $25,000 to $300,000. Here’s a breakdown of their account details and profit-sharing structure:

Account Size	Monthly Fee	Max Contracts	Profit Target	Trailing Threshold
$25,000	$147	4 (40 micros)	$1,500	$1,500
$100,000	$207	14 (140 micros)	$6,000	$3,000
$300,000	$657	35 (350 micros)	$20,000	$7,500

Traders keep 100% of their first $25,000 in profits and then move to a 90/10 split for earnings beyond that ^[12]^[13]. Since January 2023, Apex has distributed an average of $14,033,203 per month to its users ^[14].

Evaluation Process

Apex simplifies the evaluation process with a single-step approach ^[15]:

Traders must trade for at least 7 days to meet the profit target.
No daily drawdown limits on most accounts.
Trading is allowed during news events (excluding windfall strategies).
All positions must be closed by 4:59 PM ET.
An $80 reset fee applies if needed ^[12]^[14].

This straightforward process makes it easier for traders to get started compared to many other firms.

Platform Features and Support

Apex provides a range of tools and features to support traders:

Supported Platforms: NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView.
Real-time Data: Included with the subscription.
Commission Rates: Starting at $1.55 per side for Tradovate accounts ^[16].
Account Management: Manage up to 20 PA accounts simultaneously ^[12].

These features cater to traders seeking flexibility and efficiency in their trading setup.

Market Access

Apex provides access to a variety of markets, including:

Equity Futures
Foreign Exchange Futures
Agricultural Futures
Energy Futures
Metals Futures

"Apex Trader Funding is a futures-focused prop firm offering accounts up to $300,000, with trading platforms like NinjaTrader and TradingView. While its profit split is appealing, high monthly fees and limited education may impact the prop firm’s overall value for some." – Noam Korbl, Prop-Firms.com ^[16]

Since 2022, Apex has paid out a total of $439,408,133 to traders, with $67,620,436 distributed in the last 90 days alone. Their reach spans 150 countries, highlighting their growing global presence ^[14].

5. SurgeTrader

SurgeTrader

Important Update: As of May 24, 2024, SurgeTrader has shut down all operations due to Match-Trade Technologies revoking its platform license^[18]. Traders with active accounts should reach out to SurgeTrader’s support team to process withdrawals of any profits or funds^[19].

Launched in 2021, SurgeTrader quickly gained attention as a prop trading firm, offering futures traders a distinctive funding model.

Funding Model

SurgeTrader used a simple, one-step evaluation process called the "Audition." Key features of their program included:

Feature	Details
Maximum Funding	Up to $1,000,000
Profit Split	90% to trader
Time Restrictions	None
Account Type	Real money funding
Evaluation Steps	Single phase (Audition)

This straightforward structure made SurgeTrader appealing to many traders before its closure.

Program Highlights

SurgeTrader stood out by offering real-money accounts, ensuring that both the firm and traders shared the same goals. This was a departure from firms that primarily used demo accounts for evaluations^[17].

Trading Framework

The program prioritized simplicity with clear rules, no time limits for the Audition, and immediate access to trading capital upon passing. Traders were able to start trading with real funds as soon as they completed the evaluation.

The closure of SurgeTrader highlights shifts in the prop trading industry and serves as a reminder to carefully assess the reliability and long-term prospects of any funding partner.

6. Earn2Trade

Earn2Trade

Earn2Trade provides two evaluation programs for futures traders: Trader Career Path® (TCP) and Gauntlet Mini™. These programs are designed to build disciplined trading habits and offer strong support during the evaluation period. Like other leading prop firms, Earn2Trade puts a spotlight on risk management and gradual scaling, making their evaluation process stand out.

Funding Model

Earn2Trade’s evaluation system prioritizes strict risk management and steady performance. Here’s a breakdown of the TCP program options:

Feature	TCP100	TCP50	TCP25
Virtual Starting Capital	$100,000	$50,000	$25,000
Profit Goal	$6,000	$3,000	$1,750
EOD Drawdown	$3,500	$2,000	$1,500
Daily Loss Limit	$2,200	$1,100	$550
Max Contracts	Up to 12	Up to 6	Up to 3

Program Features

Earn2Trade offers traders an 80/20 profit split ^[23]. The evaluation process requires at least 10 trading days and includes:

Access to the NinjaTrader platform at no extra cost
Journalytix™ license for detailed trade tracking
Educational materials
Real-time market data

These features are designed to encourage disciplined, risk-aware trading – key elements of successful trading in prop firm environments.

Success Metrics

In 2024, 10.42% of candidates successfully completed the evaluation process ^[20]^[22]. Among those who passed:

10.04% traded on Live accounts
89.96% chose LiveSim® accounts

Scaling Opportunities

Traders can progress from a $50,000 LiveSim® account to a $100,000 Live account after hitting the $3,000 profit target and making a withdrawal. Scaling can continue up to $400,000, after which traders can receive custom offers ^[20].

Cost Structure

Earn2Trade provides transparent pricing for its services:

TCP: $150/month
Gauntlet Mini™: $170/month
Reset fee: $100 (waived with monthly subscription renewal)
LiveSim® activation: $139 (for non-professional traders)
Live account data fees: $135 per exchange per month
Withdrawal fee: $10 (waived for withdrawals over $500)

Trading Parameters

Traders are limited to futures products listed on these exchanges:

CME
COMEX
NYMEX
CBOT

The evaluation process is built around strict risk management rules, while still allowing traders to refine and execute their strategies within clear boundaries ^[20]^[21].

7. The Funded Trader

The Funded Trader

The Funded Trader (TFT) offers a simulated evaluation program where traders can showcase their skills using virtual capital. With different challenge types and opportunities for growth, TFT is a solid option for those aiming to advance in futures trading.

Program Structure

TFT provides several challenge options tailored to different trading styles:

Program	Cost ($100k Account)	Key Features
Royal	$578	Standard evaluation model
Royal Pro	$519	Higher profit target potential
Dragon	<$360	Balance-based drawdown model

This structured system rewards performance and sets up traders for long-term success.

Funding Model

TFT’s funding model includes:

Profit splits of up to 95% for funded traders
Virtual account scaling up to $1.5 million
Combined account management of up to $600,000
A challenge account cap of $1.2 million across all programs ^[24]

Trading Instruments

Traders can access a variety of markets, including futures, commodities, indices, and crypto derivatives. All trades are conducted through simulated accounts with real-time quotes from liquidity providers ^[24].

Account Management

TFT emphasizes a structured approach to account growth and risk management. As they explain:

"At The Funded Trader, we believe every retail trader deserves the opportunity to raise capital based on their performance and commitment to building their own skills in a merit-based environment." ^[24]

Verification Requirements

Before accessing funds or making withdrawals, traders must complete identity verification and meet KYC/AML requirements ^[24].

Cost Structure

The Dragon Challenge offers an affordable entry point, with fees under $360 for a $100,000 virtual account. Account credentials are issued within five minutes of payment confirmation ^[24].

Geographic Restrictions

TFT does not operate in certain regions, including Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Russia, and parts of Ukraine ^[24].

Direct Comparison of Prop Firms

This section provides a side-by-side look at key metrics to help you quickly evaluate the firms discussed earlier.

Cost Comparison

Here’s a breakdown of the fees for starting a $100,000 account:

Firm	Fee Model	Monthly Fee	One-Time Fee
FTMO	Challenge-based	N/A	$750
TopStep	Subscription	$99	$149
Apex Trader Funding	Hybrid	$207	$220
The Funded Trader	Challenge-based	N/A	$489

Profit Split Comparison

Profit-sharing terms vary by firm. Here’s how they compare:

Firm	Initial Profit Split	Ongoing Split	Special Terms
TopStep	100%	90%	First $10,000 at full rate
Apex Trader Funding	100%	90%	First $25,000 at full rate
The Funded Trader	95%	95%	Scaling up to $1.5M available

Maximum Account Size

Account size limits vary significantly. TopStep caps at $150,000, Apex Trader Funding goes up to $300,000, and The Funded Trader offers scaling options up to $1.5M.

Evaluation Process

Each firm uses a different method to evaluate traders. Here’s a comparison:

Firm	Evaluation Type	Duration/Time Limit	Reset Policy
TopStep	Flexible evaluation	No limit	Free reset
Apex Trader Funding	One-step evaluation	No limit	Reset via monthly fee
The Funded Trader	Multi-option (1–3 steps)	30–90 days	Program dependent

Notable Features

TopStep stands out for its flexible evaluation process and strong trader support.
Apex Trader Funding offers 100% profit on the first $25,000 earned.
The Funded Trader provides competitive scaling options, allowing accounts to grow up to $1.5M with a 95% profit split.

Summary and Recommendations

Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right firm based on your trading style and needs.

For Day Traders

If you’re a day trader, Apex Trader Funding stands out with its trader-friendly profit-sharing structure. It’s a solid choice for those focusing on short-term market moves ^[25].

For Experienced Traders

The Funded Trader brings several perks to the table, including:

Flexible trading approaches
Profit splits of up to 95%
Advanced tools for managing risk

If you’re looking for a balance of cost and quality, you might want to explore other alternatives as well.

For Budget-Conscious Traders

For those watching their expenses, TopStep offers a $50K account for just $49 per month. Plus, you get to keep 100% of the first $10,000 in profits ^[26].

Getting Started

Define your trading style: Are you a day trader, swing trader, or algo trader? Match your choice with your trading approach.
Consider your budget: Look at your available capital and compare evaluation fees across firms.
Check platform compatibility: Make sure the firm’s platform supports the futures markets you prefer.

These insights are based on our in-depth analysis to help you find a prop firm that aligns with your strategy and goals. Focus on firms with strong reputations and verified user feedback.

Key Takeaways:

Quick Comparison Table:

How to Choose:

Best Prop Firms for Futures Trading in 2025 (Trust, Cost …

1. FTMO

Account Types and Fees

Evaluation Process

Profit Sharing and Perks

Trading Features

2. TopStep

Account Options and Costs

Evaluation Process

Profit Sharing Structure

Trading Features and Support

Additional Costs to Keep in Mind

3. OneUp Trader

Account Options and Pricing

Evaluation Process

Profit Sharing and Withdrawals

Trading Platform Support

Additional Features

4. Apex Trader Funding

Account Options and Profit Sharing

Evaluation Process

Platform Features and Support

Market Access

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5. SurgeTrader

Funding Model

Program Highlights

Trading Framework

6. Earn2Trade

Funding Model

Program Features

Success Metrics

Scaling Opportunities

Cost Structure

Trading Parameters

7. The Funded Trader

Program Structure

Funding Model

Trading Instruments

Account Management

Verification Requirements

Cost Structure

Geographic Restrictions

Direct Comparison of Prop Firms

Cost Comparison

Profit Split Comparison

Maximum Account Size

Evaluation Process

Notable Features

Summary and Recommendations

For Day Traders

For Experienced Traders

For Budget-Conscious Traders

Getting Started

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