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TradeDay vs. Topstep: Which is Better in 2025?

Written By: Patrick Wieland

Choosing the perfect futures prop firm can drastically impact your trading career. It determines how quickly you get funded, how much of your hard-earned profit you actually keep, and how fast you can access your payouts.

Let’s dive deep into comparing two major players in the space: TradeDay and Topstep. But let’s be real—these firms aren’t equal. One offers a simpler process with fewer hoops, while the other is notoriously restrictive.

Ready to find out which firm matches your trading style? Let’s go!

FeatureTradeDayTopstep
Evaluation ProcessOne-StepOne-Step ("Trader Combine")
$50K Account Cost$125/month$165/month
Minimum Days to PassMinimum of 7 DaysMinimum of 2 Days
Activation Fee$139$149
Max Accounts Per Trader1Up to 5
Profit Split80/20 initially, 95/5 for long-term traders100% of first $10K, then 90/10
Data Fees$140/month$133/month
Reset Fees$99$49
Best ForTraders wanting fast payouts & transparent rulesBeginners needing structure & coaching

Is TradeDay a Good Prop Firm?

TradeDay has quickly built a reputation as a reliable prop firm, known for transparent fees, clear rules, and fast payouts. If you’re tired of surprises and prefer simplicity, TradeDay could be a perfect fit.

Why Traders Love TradeDay:

  • Transparency: Clear, upfront costs and rules.
  • Speed: Fast payouts without unnecessary hurdles.
  • Profit Split: Favorable long-term splits reward loyalty and consistency.

Does Topstep Actually Pay Out?

Topstep reliably pays traders, although accessing your profits initially involves meeting specific milestones. Their structured approach is ideal if you’re newer to trading or need clear guidelines to maintain discipline.

Does TradeDay Have an Activation Fee?

Yes, TradeDay charges a reasonable $139 activation fee, slightly less than Topstep’s $149 fee. Both firms use this fee to cover administrative and setup costs associated with your funded account.

How Many TradeDay Accounts Can You Have?

TradeDay limits traders to one account at a time. This keeps traders focused, encouraging depth in trading strategy and management.

Topstep allows up to five simultaneous accounts, providing more opportunities for diversification and experimentation.

Though other prop firms like Apex Trader Funding offer 20 accounts per Trader.

What Percentage of Payout Does Topstep Take?

Topstep initially gives traders 100% of their first $10,000 in profits—an advantage for beginners. After hitting this milestone, the profit split shifts to a competitive 90/10.

In comparison, TradeDay starts with an 80/20 split but moves to an impressive 95/5 for loyal, long-term traders, greatly rewarding ongoing success. This is one of the best profit splits in the industry.

What Sets TradeDay Apart?

???? Simple, Clear Evaluation

TradeDay’s single-step evaluation is straightforward, enabling traders to quickly start making money without delays.

???? Attractive Long-Term Profit Split

Their escalating profit split rewards long-term traders with a lucrative 95/5 split, encouraging loyalty and consistent performance.

???? Transparent Fees

Every cost is laid out clearly – no hidden fees, no unexpected charges, just simple, straightforward pricing.

Why Topstep Can Be Frustrating

???? Minimum Milestones for Payouts

Topstep requires you to meet specific milestones before payouts, making the process slower compared to TradeDay’s more immediate structure.

???? Higher Monthly Costs

With slightly higher monthly costs and additional fees like data and resets, the ongoing cost of maintaining a Topstep account can add up.

Who Should Choose TradeDay?

✅ Traders who value transparency and clear rules.

✅ Traders looking for rapid payouts and fewer hurdles.

✅ Experienced traders aiming for long-term rewards.

Who Should Choose Topstep?

✅ Beginners needing structured guidance.

✅ Traders comfortable meeting payout milestones.

✅ Those looking to manage multiple funded accounts simultaneously.

Though there are many other choices out there, take a look at our list of discounted prop firms (updated daily).

Final Thoughts: Which Prop Firm Should You Pick?

When comparing TradeDay vs. Topstep, your decision boils down to your trading style and experience level:

TradeDay is ideal for:

  • Transparency and straightforwardness
  • Fast and frequent payouts
  • Long-term profit incentives

Topstep is better if you:

  • Are new to trading and want structured guidance
  • Prefer clear rules and payout milestones
  • Want the option to manage multiple accounts

If speed, transparency, and long-term growth are crucial to you, TradeDay is your best choice.

???? Ready to elevate your trading? Sign up for TradeDay and trade smarter today! (and get the best discount with code “onlypropfirms”)

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