OneUp Trader vs Topstep
OneUp Trader vs Topstep: Key Differences
There is a modest pricing gap between these firms. OneUp Trader comes in at $75 for the $50K evaluation while the other charges $109 — a $34 difference. That is roughly the cost of a reset at most firms, so it is worth factoring in if you budget for multiple attempts.
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.
OneUp Trader provides $2,500 of drawdown room compared to $2,000 — an extra $500 buffer that can be the difference between surviving a losing streak and blowing an account. Topstep's end-of-day trailing drawdown is more favorable than OneUp Trader's Trailing calculation, giving you steadier risk limits during profitable runs.
Topstep requires fewer minimum trading days (2 vs 10).
Topstep permits news trading while OneUp Trader 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.
View the full details on each firm's page: OneUp Trader rules & pricing and Topstep rules & pricing.
We have conducted full, first-person reviews of OneUp Trader and Topstep.
OneUp Trader vs Topstep: Prices & Rules
| OneUp Trader | Topstep | |
|---|---|---|
| Account | Standard $50,000 | No Activation Fee $50,000 |
| Price | $75 | $109 |
| Activation fee | $75 | None listed |
| Profit target | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| Max drawdown | $2,500 (Trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
| Daily loss limit | None listed | None listed |
| Min trading days | 10 | 2 |
| Funded profit split | 90% | 90% |
| Funded max drawdown | $2,500 (Trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
Trading Rules: Side-by-Side
| Rule | OneUp Trader | 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 OneUp Trader 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.
OneUp Trader
- +Lower entry cost at $75 vs $109
- +More forgiving $2,500 max drawdown gives beginners extra room
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.
OneUp Trader
- +Larger $2,500 drawdown buffer for safer position management
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a $50K challenge cost at OneUp Trader vs Topstep?
OneUp Trader charges $75 for their $50K challenge (plus a $75 activation fee once funded), compared to $109 at Topstep. That is a $34 savings upfront.
How do OneUp Trader 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?
OneUp Trader provides a $2,500 max drawdown compared to $2,000 at Topstep — $500 more breathing room. Topstep's end-of-day trailing calculation is friendlier than OneUp Trader's Trailing.
Can I trade during news events at OneUp Trader or Topstep?
Topstep permits news trading while OneUp Trader does not. Traders who build their edge around scheduled economic events should factor this into their decision.
How quickly can I get paid at OneUp Trader 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, OneUp Trader has an edge thanks to lower challenge fee, more forgiving drawdown. 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
- OneUp Trader Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- Topstep Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- OneUp Trader Standard Plans — Rules and sizes for Standard 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.
