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TopStep and FTMO are two of the largest prop trading firms with different strengths: TopStep specializes in futures (ES, NQ, CL) with US market hours; FTMO focuses on forex/CFDs with broader instrument coverage and 24/5 hours. Your trading style and instrument preference determine which firm fits.
TopStep wins for futures traders (ES, NQ, CL, GC) with US-session strategies — the platform/data is futures-native. FTMO wins for forex/CFD traders who want 24/5 hours and broader instrument coverage. Both have strict drawdown rules; FTMO's scaling plan is more generous at higher account sizes.
| Feature | TopStep | FTMO | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instrument focus | Futures (ES, NQ, CL, GC) | Forex, indices, commodities | |
| Max account size | $150K (TopStep) | $400K (FTMO Scaling) | FTMO |
| Profit split | 90/10 to first $5K, 100% after | 80/20 default, 90/10 with scaling | TopStep |
| Daily drawdown | $2K-$3K depending on size | 5% trailing | |
| Trading hours | US futures session | 24/5 | FTMO |
| Best for | Futures traders, ES/NQ scalpers | Forex/CFD traders, 24/5 strategies |
TopStep's data, platforms, and account limits are futures-tuned.
FTMO's 24/5 hours + forex spread are better suited.
Trading prop accounts caps at the firm's scaling plan. Building AI SaaS or digital products has no ceiling. The course teaches the full transition.
AI SaaS BuilderSimilar pass rates (~10% on first attempt across both). TopStep's drawdown rules are clearer; FTMO's scaling plan is more generous if you do pass.
Yes — many funded traders run TopStep for futures and FTMO for forex. Capital and risk are managed separately.