Topstep vs Lucid Trading
Lucid Trading vs Topstep: Key Differences
There is a modest pricing gap between these firms. Lucid Trading comes in at $85.40 for the $50K evaluation while the other charges $109 — a $23.60 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 Lucid Trading 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 has no daily loss limit, whereas Lucid Trading restricts daily losses to $1,200. Topstep permits news trading while Lucid Trading 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, Lucid Trading 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: Lucid Trading rules & pricing and Topstep rules & pricing.
We have conducted full, first-person reviews of Lucid Trading and Topstep.
Lucid Trading vs Topstep: Prices & Rules
| Lucid Trading | Topstep | |
|---|---|---|
| Account | Daily $50,000 | No Activation Fee $50,000 |
| Price | $85.40 ($122 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 | $1,200 | None listed |
| Min trading days | 2 | 2 |
| Funded profit split | 90% | 90% |
| Funded max drawdown | $2,000 (Trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
Trading Rules: Side-by-Side
| Rule | Lucid Trading | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| News Trading | Not 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) | 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 Lucid Trading 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.
Lucid Trading
- +Lower entry cost at $85.40 vs $109
Experienced Traders
Consistent track record, focused on maximizing earnings and scaling capital.
Topstep
- +News trading allowed for event-driven strategies
- +Higher scaling potential up to $750,000
Conservative Swing Traders
Prefer wider stops, lower risk, and the flexibility to hold positions longer.
Lucid Trading
- +Both firms have comparable risk management features
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a $50K challenge cost at Lucid Trading vs Topstep?
Lucid Trading charges $85.40 for their $50K challenge, compared to $109 at Topstep. That is a $23.60 savings upfront. This already includes Lucid Trading's 30% discount.
How do Lucid Trading 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 Lucid Trading or Topstep?
Topstep permits news trading while Lucid Trading does not. Traders who build their edge around scheduled economic events should factor this into their decision.
How quickly can I get paid at Lucid Trading vs Topstep?
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, Lucid Trading 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
- Lucid Trading Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- Topstep Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- Lucid Trading Daily Plans — Rules and sizes for Daily accounts
- Lucid Trading Daily EOD Plans — Rules and sizes for Daily EOD accounts
- Lucid Trading Direct Plans — Rules and sizes for Direct accounts
- Lucid Trading Flex Plans — Rules and sizes for Flex accounts
- Lucid Trading Pro Plans — Rules and sizes for Pro 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.
