Overview:
Topstep is one ofthe more established names in the futures prop trading space, founded in 2012. They are known for their “Trading Combine®” evaluation program, which traders must pass to get a funded account. Topstep emphasizes trader development and provides educational resources.
Key Points:
- Account Sizes (Evaluation): $50,000, $100,000, $150,000.
- Year Started: 2012.
- Minimum Evaluation Days: 2 days with consistent profitability to achieve funding targets. (The “Trading Combine” has two steps).
- Maximum Accounts: Up to 5 Express Funded Accounts™; rules may vary for other funded account types.
- Restricted Countries: Has a list of restricted countries including OFAC-sanctioned nations and others where they cannot provide services.
- Straight to Funded: No, the Trading Combine® evaluation is mandatory.
- Swing Trading: Not allowed. Topstep flattens all positions at the end of each trading day.
- Trading Platforms: TopstepX™ (proprietary), NinjaTrader, Quantower, Tradovate, TradingView, and others.
- Profit Split: 100% of the first $10,000 in profits; 90/10 split thereafter (90% to the trader).
Product Table (Trading Combine® Evaluation):
| Account Size | Profit Target | Max Position Size | Daily Loss Limit | Trailing Max Drawdown | Min Eval Time | Monthly Fee (Example) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $3,000 | 5 Contracts | $1,000 | $2,000 | 2 Days | ~$165 |
| $100,000 | $6,000 | 10 Contracts | $2,000 | $3,000 | 2 Days | ~$325 |
| $150,000 | $9,000 | 15 Contracts | $3,000 | $4,500 | 2 Days | ~$375 |
Note: The Trading Combine has specific rules for Step 1 and Step 2. Fees are for the evaluation period and are subject to change. “Min Eval Time” refers to the minimum time to pass if all objectives are met.
Pros:
- Long-standing and reputable firm in the industry.
- Clear profit split with 100% of the first $10k.
- Good range of supported platforms, including their own TopstepX™.
- Provides educational content and performance coaching.
- Relatively straightforward evaluation rules, though adherence is strictly monitored.
Cons:
- Strict no swing trading policy (intraday trading only).
- Trailing drawdown can be challenging for some traders.
- Monthly recurring fee for the Trading Combine evaluation until passed or canceled.
- The two-step evaluation process can take time.