FTMO vs The5ers vs Topstep 2026 – Which Is Better?
FTMO vs The5ers vs Topstep: this comparison breaks down pricing, profit splits, trading rules and payouts across all three prop firms. Quick Comparison Feature FTMO The5ers Topstep Account Sizes $10K–$200K $5K–$200K $50K–$150K Pricing $155–$1,080 $39–$875 $165–$375/month Profit Split 80%–90% Up to 100% 90% Daily Drawdown 5% 4–5% Trailing Total Drawdown 10% 10% Trailing Platforms MT4, […]
FTMO vs The5ers vs Topstep: this comparison breaks down pricing, profit splits, trading rules and payouts across all three prop firms.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | FTMO | The5ers | Topstep |
|---|---|---|---|
| Account Sizes | $10K–$200K | $5K–$200K | $50K–$150K |
| Pricing | $155–$1,080 | $39–$875 | $165–$375/month |
| Profit Split | 80%–90% | Up to 100% | 90% |
| Daily Drawdown | 5% | 4–5% | Trailing |
| Total Drawdown | 10% | 10% | Trailing |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | MT5 | NinjaTrader |
| Payout Speed | 1–3 days | 1–14 days | 2–7 days |
| Rating | 4.9 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 | 4.7 / 5 |
Pricing and Account Options
FTMO offers fixed pricing based on account size, ranging from $155 to $1,080. Traders pay once for the challenge and get refunded upon successful completion.
The5ers provides a wider pricing range starting from $39, depending on program type and account size. This allows lower entry cost compared to FTMO.
Topstep uses a subscription-based pricing model, with monthly fees between $165 and $375. This structure differs from one-time evaluation fees used by FTMO and The5ers.
For traders looking for the lowest upfront cost, The5ers provides the most accessible entry point. FTMO sits mid-to-high range, while Topstep spreads cost over time through subscriptions.
Profit Split and Payouts
FTMO offers an 80% profit split, which can increase to 90% under scaling plans.
The5ers offers profit splits up to 100%, depending on program progression.
Topstep provides a 90% profit split.
Payout speeds differ across firms:
- FTMO: 1–3 business days
- The5ers: 1–14 business days
- Topstep: 2–7 business days
FTMO provides the fastest payout processing based on stated timelines, while The5ers has the widest payout range depending on account structure.
Trading Rules Compared
FTMO uses fixed drawdown limits:
- 5% daily drawdown
- 10% total drawdown
The5ers applies:
- 4–5% daily drawdown
- 10% total drawdown
- Consistency rules on certain accounts
Topstep uses a trailing drawdown model, which adjusts based on account performance.
The trailing drawdown used by Topstep differs significantly from fixed drawdown models, requiring traders to maintain a buffer as account equity increases.
Platform and Technology
FTMO supports multiple platforms:
- MT4
- MT5
- cTrader
The5ers supports MT5.
Topstep uses NinjaTrader.
Platform availability can influence trader choice depending on familiarity and strategy requirements.
User Reputation
Trustpilot ratings:
- FTMO: 4.9 / 5
- The5ers: 4.8 / 5
- Topstep: 4.7 / 5
All three firms maintain high ratings, with FTMO holding the highest score among the three.
Our Verdict – Who Should Choose Which?
FTMO vs The5ers vs Topstep shows three distinct prop firm models.
- FTMO suits traders who want fast payouts, structured rules, and multiple platform options
- The5ers suits traders looking for lower entry pricing and higher potential profit splits
- Topstep suits traders comfortable with subscription models and trailing drawdown structures
Each firm offers different advantages depending on trading style, risk tolerance, and preferred funding model.
FAQ
1. Which is better: FTMO, The5ers, or Topstep?
It depends on trading preferences. FTMO offers faster payouts, The5ers offers lower entry pricing, and Topstep uses a subscription model.
2. Which prop firm has the highest profit split?
The5ers offers up to 100%, higher than FTMO and Topstep.
3. Which has the fastest payouts?
FTMO, with 1–3 business days.
4. What is the main difference with Topstep?
Topstep uses a trailing drawdown model and subscription pricing.
5. Which is best for beginners?
The5ers may be more accessible due to lower starting pricing.
