FuturesElite vs Topstep
FuturesElite vs Topstep: Key Differences
Pricing is nearly identical between these two firms. Topstep edges ahead by just $3 ($109 vs $112 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 FuturesElite discount codes for additional savings.
With matching 90% profit splits, neither firm has a financial edge on earnings. Your take-home pay will be identical for the same trading results, so the real comparison shifts to drawdown policies, trading flexibility, and how quickly you can access your funds.
Topstep requires fewer minimum trading days (2 vs 3).
Topstep permits news trading while FuturesElite restricts it. These operational differences can shape your day-to-day experience, particularly if your strategy depends on volatility around economic releases or requires more intraday flexibility.
Overall, FuturesElite and Topstep are remarkably similar on paper for the $50K challenge. The deciding factor will likely come down to personal preference — platform feel, community support, and how smoothly each firm handles payouts.
View the full details on each firm's page: FuturesElite rules & pricing and Topstep rules & pricing.
We have conducted full, first-person reviews of FuturesElite and Topstep.
FuturesElite vs Topstep: Prices & Rules
| FuturesElite | Topstep | |
|---|---|---|
| Account | Elite $50,000 | No Activation Fee $50,000 |
| Price | $112 ($160 before 30% 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 | 3 | 2 |
| Funded profit split | 90% | 90% |
| Funded max drawdown | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
Trading Rules: Side-by-Side
| Rule | FuturesElite | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| News Trading | Eval only | 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 FuturesElite 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 $112
Experienced Traders
Consistent track record, focused on maximizing earnings and scaling capital.
Topstep
- +News trading allowed for event-driven strategies
- +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.
FuturesElite
- +Both firms have comparable risk management features
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a $50K challenge cost at FuturesElite vs Topstep?
Topstep is the more affordable choice at $109 for their $50K challenge, versus $112 at FuturesElite.
How do FuturesElite and Topstep profit splits compare?
Both firms pay a 90% profit split. On a $2,000 profit you keep $1800 at either firm — no difference in take-home pay.
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 FuturesElite or Topstep?
Topstep permits news trading while FuturesElite does not. Traders who build their edge around scheduled economic events should factor this into their decision.
How quickly can I get paid at FuturesElite vs Topstep?
Topstep gets you paid sooner with just 5 minimum trading days to payout, compared to 6 at FuturesElite. Topstep supports Wise.
Which firm is better for beginner futures traders?
For beginners, Topstep 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
- FuturesElite Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- Topstep Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- FuturesElite Elite Plans — Rules and sizes for Elite accounts
- FuturesElite Instant Plans — Rules and sizes for Instant accounts
- FuturesElite Nitro Plans — Rules and sizes for Nitro accounts
- FuturesElite Prime Plans — Rules and sizes for Prime 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.
