E8 Markets vs Topstep
E8 Markets vs Topstep: Key Differences
Pricing is nearly identical between these two firms. Topstep edges ahead by just $18.50 ($109 vs $127.50 for the $50K account). At this margin, the difference is negligible over one attempt — though if you plan on multiple resets, even small savings compound. Check available E8 Markets discount codes for additional savings.
The profit split gap is notable. Topstep 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.
E8 Markets requires fewer minimum trading days (1 vs 2).
View the full details on each firm's page: E8 Markets rules & pricing and Topstep rules & pricing.
We have conducted full, first-person reviews of E8 Markets and Topstep.
E8 Markets vs Topstep: Prices & Rules
| E8 Markets | Topstep | |
|---|---|---|
| Account | Signature $50,000 | No Activation Fee $50,000 |
| Price | $127.50 ($170 before 25% off) | $109 |
| Activation fee | None listed | None listed |
| Profit target | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| Max drawdown | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
| Daily loss limit | None listed | None listed |
| Min trading days | 1 | 2 |
| Funded profit split | 80% | 90% |
| Funded max drawdown | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
Trading Rules: Side-by-Side
| Rule | E8 Markets | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| 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 E8 Markets and Topstep stack up for different types of traders.
Budget-Conscious Beginners
New to prop firms and want to minimize risk while learning the ropes.
Topstep
- +Lower entry cost at $109 vs $127.50
- +No consistency rule to worry about while learning
Experienced Traders
Consistent track record, focused on maximizing earnings and scaling capital.
Topstep
- +Higher 90% profit split means more earnings per trade
- +Expert advisors supported for automated strategies
- +Higher scaling potential up to $750,000
Conservative Swing Traders
Prefer wider stops, lower risk, and the flexibility to hold positions longer.
E8 Markets
- +Both firms have comparable risk management features
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a $50K challenge cost at E8 Markets vs Topstep?
Topstep is the more affordable choice at $109 for their $50K challenge, versus $127.50 at E8 Markets.
How do E8 Markets and Topstep profit splits compare?
Topstep leads with a 90% profit split compared to 80% at E8 Markets. On a $2,000 profit, that means $1800 in your pocket at Topstep versus $1600 at E8 Markets.
Which firm has easier drawdown rules for the $50K account?
Both firms set the max drawdown at $2,000.
Can I trade during news events at E8 Markets or Topstep?
Both E8 Markets and Topstep 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 E8 Markets vs Topstep?
E8 Markets offers a faster path to your first payout, with a minimum of 3 trading days required versus 5 at Topstep. After that, E8 Markets processes payouts via Workmarket, Rise, Aeropay.
Do E8 Markets or Topstep have a consistency rule?
E8 Markets enforces a 35% consistency rule — no single day can account for more than 35% of your total earnings. Topstep has no such rule, giving you freedom to have outsized winning days without penalty.
Which firm is better for beginner futures traders?
For beginners, Topstep has an edge thanks to lower challenge fee, no consistency rule. 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
- E8 Markets Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- Topstep Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- E8 Markets Signature Plans — Rules and sizes for Signature accounts
- E8 Markets E8 Zero MAX Plans — Rules and sizes for E8 Zero MAX accounts
- E8 Markets E8 Zero Starter Plans — Rules and sizes for E8 Zero Starter accounts
- Topstep No Activation Fee Plans — Rules and sizes for No Activation Fee accounts
- Topstep Standard Plans — Rules and sizes for Standard 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.
