Topstep vs TradeDay
Topstep vs TradeDay: Key Differences
There is a modest pricing gap between these firms. Topstep comes in at $109 for the $50K evaluation while the other charges $175 — a $66 difference. That is roughly the cost of a reset at most firms, so it is worth factoring in if you budget for multiple attempts.
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.
Topstep requires fewer minimum trading days (2 vs 5).
These two firms take meaningfully different approaches to their challenge programs. The right pick depends on what you prioritize: lower cost of entry, a bigger share of profits, or more lenient risk parameters. Consider which rules align with how you actually trade, not just which numbers look best on paper.
View the full details on each firm's page: Topstep rules & pricing and TradeDay rules & pricing.
We have conducted full, first-person reviews of Topstep and TradeDay.
Topstep vs TradeDay: Prices & Rules
| Topstep | TradeDay | |
|---|---|---|
| Account | No Activation Fee $50,000 | End of Day $50,000 |
| Price | $109 | $175 |
| Activation fee | None listed | $139 |
| 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 | 2 | 5 |
| Funded profit split | 90% | 80% |
| Funded max drawdown | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) | $2,000 (end-of-day trailing) |
Trading Rules: Side-by-Side
| Rule | Topstep | 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) | 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 Topstep 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.
Topstep
- +Lower entry cost at $109 vs $175
Experienced Traders
Consistent track record, focused on maximizing earnings and scaling capital.
Topstep
- +Higher 90% profit split means more earnings per trade
- +Higher scaling potential up to $750,000
Conservative Swing Traders
Prefer wider stops, lower risk, and the flexibility to hold positions longer.
Topstep
- +Both firms have comparable risk management features
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a $50K challenge cost at Topstep vs TradeDay?
Topstep charges $109 for their $50K challenge, compared to $175 at TradeDay (plus a $139 activation fee once funded). That is a $66 savings upfront.
How do Topstep and TradeDay profit splits compare?
Topstep 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 Topstep and $1600 from TradeDay — a $200 difference per $2,000 earned.
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 Topstep or TradeDay?
Both Topstep 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 Topstep 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, 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
- Topstep Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- TradeDay Discount Codes — Current promotions and verified coupon codes
- Topstep No Activation Fee Plans — Rules and sizes for No Activation Fee accounts
- Topstep Standard Plans — Rules and sizes for Standard 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.
