Alpha Futures vs TradeDay
Alpha Futures vs TradeDay: Key Differences
There is a modest pricing gap between these firms. Alpha Futures comes in at $136 for the $50K evaluation while the other charges $175 — a $39 difference. That is roughly the cost of a reset at most firms, so it is worth factoring in if you budget for multiple attempts. Check available Alpha Futures discount codes for additional savings.
The profit split gap is notable. Alpha Futures returns 90% of your profits, putting $900 in your pocket for every $1,000 earned. The other firm's 80% split means you would receive $800 on that same amount — a $100 per-thousand difference that scales with every payout.
Maximum drawdowns are close ($2,000 at TradeDay vs $1,750), so the buffer difference is minimal.
TradeDay sets the bar lower with a $3,000 profit target versus $4,000. Additionally, Alpha Futures requires fewer minimum trading days (2 vs 5).
View the full details on each firm's page: Alpha Futures rules & pricing and TradeDay rules & pricing.
We have conducted full, first-person reviews of Alpha Futures and TradeDay.
Alpha Futures vs TradeDay: Prices & Rules
| Alpha Futures | TradeDay | |
|---|---|---|
| Account | Advanced $50,000 | End of Day $50,000 |
| Price | $136 ($209 before 35% off) | $175 |
| Activation fee | None listed | $139 |
| Profit target | $4,000 | $3,000 |
| Max drawdown | $1,750 (end-of-day trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
| Daily loss limit | None listed | None listed |
| Min trading days | 2 | 5 |
| Funded profit split | 90% | 80% |
| Funded max drawdown | $1,750 (end-of-day trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
Trading Rules: Side-by-Side
| Rule | Alpha Futures | TradeDay |
|---|---|---|
| News Trading | Allowed | Allowed |
| Weekend Holding | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Overnight Holding | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Hedging | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Copy Trading | Allowed | Allowed |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | Not allowed | Allowed |
Rules shown reflect the $50K challenge account. Some rules may differ by account size or type.
Which Firm Is Right for You?
The best prop firm depends on your experience level, trading style, and priorities. Here is how Alpha Futures and TradeDay stack up for different types of traders.
Budget-Conscious Beginners
New to prop firms and want to minimize risk while learning the ropes.
Alpha Futures
- +Lower entry cost at $136 vs $175
- +More forgiving $2,000 max drawdown gives beginners extra room
Experienced Traders
Consistent track record, focused on maximizing earnings and scaling capital.
Alpha Futures
- +Higher 90% profit split means more earnings per trade
- +Expert advisors supported for automated strategies
Conservative Swing Traders
Prefer wider stops, lower risk, and the flexibility to hold positions longer.
TradeDay
- +Larger $2,000 drawdown buffer for safer position management
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a $50K challenge cost at Alpha Futures vs TradeDay?
Alpha Futures charges $136 for their $50K challenge, compared to $175 at TradeDay (plus a $139 activation fee once funded). That is a $39 savings upfront. This already includes Alpha Futures's 35% discount.
How do Alpha Futures and TradeDay profit splits compare?
Alpha Futures gives you 90% of your trading profits versus 80% at TradeDay. In practice, if you earn $2,000 in a payout cycle, you would receive $1800 from Alpha Futures and $1600 from TradeDay — a $200 difference per $2,000 earned.
Which firm has easier drawdown rules for the $50K account?
TradeDay gives you $2,000 of max drawdown versus $1,750 at Alpha Futures.
Can I trade during news events at Alpha Futures or TradeDay?
Both Alpha Futures and TradeDay allow news trading. This is particularly valuable for traders who capitalize on volatility around FOMC announcements, NFP releases, and CPI data drops.
How quickly can I get paid at Alpha Futures vs TradeDay?
Payout timelines are similar at both firms, typically requiring around 5 profitable trading days. Both support multiple withdrawal methods.
Which firm is better for beginner futures traders?
For beginners, Alpha Futures has an edge thanks to lower challenge fee. These features reduce the pressure while you are still developing consistency. That said, both firms are viable — the best choice depends on your specific trading approach and budget.
Related Comparisons
Related Resources
- Alpha Futures Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- TradeDay Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- Alpha Futures Direct Plans — Rules and sizes for Direct accounts
- Alpha Futures Advanced Plans — Rules and sizes for Advanced accounts
- Alpha Futures Zero Plans — Rules and sizes for Zero accounts
- TradeDay End of Day Plans — Rules and sizes for End of Day accounts
- TradeDay Intraday Plans — Rules and sizes for Intraday accounts
- Compare More Firms — Build your own side-by-side comparison
- How to Pass a Prop Firm Challenge — A step-by-step plan for the evaluation
- Cheapest Futures Prop Firms — Ranked by total cost to get funded
- Trailing Drawdown Explained — How EOD and intraday trailing drawdowns differ
- No Consistency Rule Prop Firms — Firms that don't cap your best day
- Best Instant Funding Prop Firms — Skip the evaluation entirely
- Trading Guides — Learn strategies for passing prop firm evaluations
Data is updated regularly but may not reflect the latest changes. Always verify current pricing and rules on each firm's official website before making a decision.
