The5ers scores 13.3 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 | Topstep 60/100 Adequate | The5ers 73/100 Strong |
|---|---|---|
| Payout split | 90% (flat for new traders as of Jan 12, 2026) | 80% (scales to higher tiers over time) |
| Max funded | $150,000 (Express Funded Account) | $4,000,000 (via scaling plan) |
| Payout cap | $2,000/payout Standard, $3,000/payout Consistency — new $50K accounts from Apr 28, 2026 | None |
| Drawdown model | Trailing EOD MLL — ratchets up with peak end-of-day balance, never resets down | Static max loss from initial balance (never trailing) |
| Min trading days | 5 winning days required before payout request | 3 |
| Challenge fee | $49–$149/month subscription | ~$500–$700 for $100K Hyper program |
| Fee refundable | No — subscription model, no refund on payout | Yes — refunded with first payout (Hyper program) |
| News trading | Allowed — no restrictions on futures news trading | Generally allowed; minimal restrictions vs. peers. Scalping restrictions apply. |
| Platforms | TopstepX (proprietary, mandatory as of 2026) | MT4, MT5 |
| Payout schedule | On demand after 5 winning days — processed 1-3 business days | Weekly; on-demand within 1–3 business days |
| Visit Topstep | Visit The5ers |
Verify regulator standing
Cross-check both firms against NFA BASIC, FCA Register, CFTC, and the CME Group rulebook for futures drawdown rule context. The5ers: www.the5ers.com.
The Verdict
Choose Topstep if you trade CME futures and want the most established firm in the category. Strong community, integrated TopstepX platform, the Combine evaluation that funded traders have been passing for years. Note that Topstep cut its payout cap to $2,000 in April 2026 — a material change to its payout structure. Choose The5ersif you trade forex. The one-step instant funding model, no payout cap, and consistent payout cadence are best-in-class for the forex one-step category. These firms aren't competitors — they serve different markets, and the right answer is decided by what you trade.