Topstep vs Apex: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Written By: Patrick Wieland
If you’re considering prop firm trading, chances are you’ve come across Topstep and Apex Trader Funding – two of the biggest names in the space. Both offer traders the chance to access funded accounts, but they operate in very different ways.
Picking the right firm is crucial. Some traders thrive under structured rules and coaching, while others prefer flexibility and lower costs.
So which one is right for you? In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll break down:
✅ How Topstep vs Apex work
✅ Their evaluation process and costs
✅ How payouts and funding differ
✅ Which firm is better for different trading styles
What Are Topstep and Apex Trader Funding?
Topstep: A Structured but Costly Approach
Founded in 2012, Topstep is one of the longest-running prop trading firms. It built its reputation by offering strictly structured trading evaluations with an emphasis on risk management and trader education.
Core Features:
✔ Futures Trading Only – No forex or other asset classes.
✔ Two-Phase Evaluation – Traders must pass two rounds before getting funded.
✔ Higher Costs – Monthly subscription fees and data costs add up quickly.
✔ Strict Rules – Aggressive risk management can feel restrictive.
Apex Trader Funding: More Flexible & Trader-Friendly
Apex Trader Funding is a newer, more innovative firm that has quickly gained popularity for its low-cost, trader-friendly approach. Unlike Topstep, Apex provides more freedom to traders by offering larger drawdowns, flexible rules, and bulk account options.
Core Features:
✔ Low-Cost Evaluations – Frequent discount codes bring costs way down.
✔ Easier Drawdown Limits – Allows more breathing room for traders.
✔ Futures Trading – Focused entirely on futures, just like Topstep.
✔ One-Phase Evaluation – Traders can pass quicker than with Topstep.
???? Want the best deal? Use code “PW” at Apex for the best deal (often 80% off)
Key Features Comparison: Topstep vs Apex
| Feature | Topstep | Apex Trader Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation Process | One-Step ("Trader Combine") | One-Step |
| $50K Account Cost | $165/month | $147/month |
| Minimum Days to Pass | Minimum of 2 Days | Minimum of 7 Days (or 1 Day with a sale) |
| Activation Fee | $149 | $125 |
| Max Accounts Per Trader | Up to 5 | Up to 20 |
| Profit Split | 100% of first $10K, then 90/10 | 100% of first $25K, then 90/10 |
| Data Fees | $133/month | Included |
| Reset Fees | $49 | $80 |
| Best For | Beginners needing structure & coaching | Experienced traders who want low costs & more freedom |
✅ Apex offers the most trader-friendly rules, making it the clear winner for those who want to pass quickly and keep more profits.
Cost Comparison: Which Firm Is More Affordable?
One of the biggest dealbreakers for many traders is cost. Here’s how Topstep and Apex stack up when it comes to fees:
Evaluation Costs
- Topstep: Starts at $165/month for a 50K account
- Apex Trader Funding: Starts at $147/month (but frequent discounts make it even cheaper)
Reset Fees
- Topstep: $49-$149 per reset
- Apex Trader Funding: $80-$100 per reset (though Apex often has promo’s for $35 resets)
Data Fees
- Topstep: Requires a separate data subscription (~$130/month)
- Apex Trader Funding: No additional data fees
✅ Apex wins on cost—it’s cheaper before discounts, and they run massive promotions almost every month.
Funding Models & Payouts
How do you actually get paid once you pass?
Topstep Payout Model
???? First $10,000 is 100% yours, then you keep 90% of profits.
???? Withholding Rules: You must hit certain milestones before withdrawing larger amounts.
⏳ Payout Delays: First withdrawals are often slow.
Apex Payout Model
???? 100% of the first $25,000, then 90% profit split – no waiting.
???? No Holding Periods—Withdraw funds after just 10 trading days.
???? Unlimited Withdrawals—Faster payouts, fewer restrictions.
✅ Apex is the clear winner for payouts—you get to withdraw faster and don’t have to wait for milestones.
???? Want the best deal? Use code “PW” at Apex for the best deal (often 80% off)
Pros & Cons of Topstep
Pros:
✔ Well-established brand with years of credibility.
✔ Coaching & educational resources for new traders.
✔ Structured approach for those who need discipline.
Cons:
???? Expensive monthly fees & resets.
???? Strict risk management rules make passing difficult.
???? Slow & restricted payouts.
Pros & Cons of Apex Trader Funding
Pros:
✔ Lower costs, frequent discounts & promotions.
✔ Flexible rules & easy-to-pass evaluations.
✔ Fast payouts & high profit splits.
Cons:
???? Not as well-known as Topstep (but growing fast).
???? Less structured coaching (better for traders who already have a strategy).
✅ Apex is the better choice for traders who want more control, better payouts, and lower costs.
Get a funded Apex account – use code: PW
Who Should Choose Topstep?
- New traders who want coaching and structure.
- Traders who don’t mind strict rules and higher fees.
- Those who prefer a more established firm (even if it’s more restrictive).
But let’s be real—most traders will struggle with Topstep’s harsh rules.
Who Should Choose Apex Trader Funding?
- Traders looking for an easier challenge with fewer rules.
- Those who want to pass quickly & withdraw profits faster.
- Anyone who values lower costs and higher flexibility.
✅ If you’re serious about trading, Apex is hands-down the better choice.
Final Verdict: Topstep vs Apex
| Feature | Winner |
|---|---|
| Cost & Fees | Apex |
| Evaluation Process | Apex |
| Profit Split & Withdrawals | Apex |
| Brand Recognition | Topstep |
| Coaching & Education | Topstep |
FAQs
Apex has easier challenges, lower costs, and better payouts. Topstep has stricter rules and higher fees.
Apex gives you 100% of the first $25K – more then the first $10K that Topstep gives you.
Topstep offers more structure, but Apex has easier rules and better payouts—so it depends on your priorities.
Topstep starts at $165/month, while Apex starts at $147/month (but often cheaper with discounts with code “PW”).
???? Want the best deal? Use code “PW” at Apex for the best deal (often 80% off)
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