Home / Prop Firms / Topstep vs Apex Trader Funding
● Updated August 2026

Topstep vs Apex Trader Funding

Both rank among our top prop firms, but they suit different traders. Here is how they compare on every metric we score — and which one fits your situation.

Topstep

8.9
/ 10 · rank #2
Visit Topstep →
VS

Apex Trader Funding

8.7
/ 10 · rank #3
Visit Apex Trader Funding →

Head-to-Head Comparison

TopstepApex Trader Funding
Overall score8.9 / 108.7 / 10
Our ranking#2#3
Profit split90% (100% on first $10k)90% (100% on first $25k)
Max funding$150,000$300,000 per account
Challenge feeFrom $49/moFrom $147/mo (often discounted)
Evaluation1 phase1 phase
PlatformsNinjaTrader · TradingView · TradovateNinjaTrader · Tradovate · TradingView
PayoutsDaily (eligible accounts)Every 8 days
Best forCME futures traders who want a US-friendly, long-established programFutures traders who want multiple accounts and frequent discounts

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Topstep if…

  • US traders accepted
  • One-step evaluation
  • Strong payout track record

Choose Apex Trader Funding if…

  • Up to 20 funded accounts at once
  • Very frequent promotional pricing
  • US traders accepted

The Trade-offs

Topstep drawbacks

  • Futures only — no forex or equities
  • Monthly subscription during evaluation

Apex Trader Funding drawbacks

  • Recurring monthly fees add up
  • Consistency rules on payouts

Our Verdict

Topstep scores higher overall (8.9/10 vs 8.7/10) on our methodology, which weighs profit split & payouts (35%), challenge fairness (30%), funding & scaling (20%), platform & support (15%). That makes it the stronger all-round choice for most people.

But a higher score doesn't make it the right pick for you. Topstep is built for cme futures traders who want a us-friendly, long-established program, while Apex Trader Funding targets futures traders who want multiple accounts and frequent discounts. If your situation matches the second description, the lower-scoring option is the better decision — the score measures general quality, not personal fit.

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