FTMO scores 17.3 higher under TVSM-PF/2.0.2.
Payout split
Max funded
Payout cap
Drawdown model
Min trading days
Challenge fee
Fee refundable
News trading
Platforms
Payout schedule
| Specification | FTMO 77/100 Strong | Topstep 60/100 Adequate |
|---|---|---|
| Payout split | 80% standard (90% after scaling plan) | 90% (flat for new traders as of Jan 12, 2026) |
| Max funded | $200,000 | $150,000 (Express Funded Account) |
| Payout cap | None | $2,000/payout Standard, $3,000/payout Consistency — new $50K accounts from Apr 28, 2026 |
| Drawdown model | Static (max 10% from initial balance) | Trailing EOD MLL — ratchets up with peak end-of-day balance, never resets down |
| Min trading days | 4 | 5 winning days required before payout request |
| Challenge fee | EUR 155–1,080 | $49–$149/month subscription |
| Fee refundable | Yes — refunded with first payout | No — subscription model, no refund on payout |
| News trading | Restricted — 2-minute window before/after named events on funded account (evaluation: unrestricted) | Allowed — no restrictions on futures news trading |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade | TopstepX (proprietary, mandatory as of 2026) |
| Payout schedule | On demand (min 14 days after first trade) | On demand after 5 winning days — processed 1-3 business days |
| Visit FTMO | Visit Topstep |
The verdict
Choose FTMO if you trade forex and want the strongest payout record — 90% split, no payout cap, and a decade of verified consistency. Their static drawdown model is the most forgiving for swing traders. Choose Topstep if you trade CME futures exclusively. Their platform integration, Combine structure, and established futures community still make it the default for futures prop traders — though the April 2026 payout-cap cut to $2,000/payout is a material change worth weighing.
Verify regulator standing
Cross-check both firms against NFA BASIC, FCA Register, CFTC, and the CME Group rulebook for futures drawdown rule context. FTMO: trader.ftmo.com.