Compare Prop Firms – Find the Right Funded Trader Program for You

Compare Prop Firms is essential for traders seeking the best opportunities and conditions to grow their trading careers. Different proprietary trading firms offer varying evaluation processes, profit splits, risk management rules, and payout methods that can significantly impact a trader’s success. By comparing these firms, traders gain the insight needed to select a firm that aligns with their trading style, goals, and risk tolerance, ultimately improving their chances of long-term profitability.

What is a Prop Firm and Why Compare Them?

A proprietary trading firm (prop firm) is a company that provides traders with access to firm capital in exchange for a share of profits.
Instead of risking their own money, traders use the firm’s funds under specific conditions. In return, they keep a percentage of the profits, often between 70–90%.
Comparing prop firms is essential because no two firms operate the same way.
Some focus on fast payouts, others emphasize strict risk management, while a few target long-term scaling.
For example, FTMO is known for transparency and strong community support, while newer firms like E8 Funding attract traders with flexible rules.
By comparing prop firms side by side, traders avoid costly mistakes like paying high fees for restrictive programs.
As Investopedia notes, evaluating key criteria such as payout policies, evaluation models, and trustworthiness helps traders align with the right partner.

Key Factors to Consider When Comparing Prop Firms

Profit Split Percentages (70–90%)

One of the most attractive features of prop firms is the profit split. Most firms allow traders to keep between 70% and 90% of their trading profits.
For example, The5ers offers an 80/20 split, while FTMO provides up to 90% for consistent performers.
While a higher split looks appealing, it’s important to evaluate the entire package. A 90% split might come with higher fees or stricter rules.
Conversely, a slightly lower split could be offset by faster payouts or a better scaling plan.
Traders on Reddit often emphasize that consistency in payouts is more valuable than chasing the highest percentage.

When comparing prop firms, ask: Does the firm pay reliably? Are payouts fast (weekly/bi-weekly) or delayed (monthly)? These details matter more than just the percentage.

Challenge & Evaluation Phases

Most prop firms require traders to pass an evaluation or challenge before accessing live funds. This usually includes a two-step process:

Phase 1 – Hit a profit target (e.g., 8–10%) under drawdown rules.
Phase 2 – Repeat with lower targets to prove consistency.

Some firms like FTMO and MyForexFunds use strict multi-step challenges, while instant funding firms like Fidelcrest allow traders to skip evaluations (at a higher upfront cost).

The evaluation phase ensures traders can manage risk, but not all challenges are trader-friendly.
A study by Finance Magnates showed that unrealistic rules (like tight daily drawdowns) cause many traders to fail.
Choosing a firm with achievable goals increases your chance of long-term success.

Trading Rules & Restrictions

Every prop firm enforces rules to protect capital. Common restrictions include:

Daily drawdown limits (e.g., 4–5%)
Maximum overall loss (e.g., 10%)
Minimum trading days requirement
Prohibited strategies (e.g., news trading, martingale, copy trading)

For example, FTMO prohibits holding trades during major news, while The Funded Trader Program allows it under specific conditions.

Traders often find rules to be the most frustrating aspect of prop firms.

According to a Trustpilot review, one trader lost his account for breaching the “consistency rule,” even though his overall profit was positive.

This highlights the need to compare rule flexibility before joining. A good prop firm should balance risk management with trader freedom.

Payout Policy & Withdrawal Options

Payout policies are another crucial comparison point.
While some firms pay traders weekly (e.g., E8 Funding), others stick to monthly cycles.
Additionally, payout methods vary: bank transfer, PayPal, or crypto.
Reliable payouts are a key indicator of a trustworthy prop firm. On forums like Forex Peace Army, traders often warn against firms that delay or complicate withdrawals.
For instance, FTMO is praised for smooth payouts within 24–48 hours, while smaller firms may face complaints about delays.
When comparing prop firms, prioritize firms with transparent payout terms and multiple withdrawal options.
After all, a profit split is only valuable if you can actually withdraw your earnings.

Scaling Plans & Long Term Growth

Scaling plans allow traders to increase their funded account size after proving consistent performance. For example:

FTMO: Scale up to $400,000.
The5ers: Double account size every few months.
MyForexFunds: Scale accounts based on profit milestones.

Scaling is particularly attractive for professional traders aiming to grow capital without additional fees. A scaling plan turns a $25,000 account into a potential $200,000+ within a year, assuming rules are followed.

However, not all firms honor scaling promises, and some require near-perfect performance.

Traders should review scaling conditions carefully, as highlighted by reviews on Reddit, where some users claimed firms changed scaling terms mid-contract.

Prop Firm Comparison Table (Side-by-Side)

Prop Firm	Profit Split	Challenge Model	Max Leverage	Scaling Plan	Trustpilot Rating
FTMO	Up to 90%	2-phase eval	1:100	Up to $400k	4.8/5
MyForexFunds	75–85%	2-phase eval	1:100	Flexible	4.6/5
E8 Funding	80–90%	2-phase eval	1:100	Yes	4.7/5
The5ers	80%	Instant/Scaling	1:30–1:100	Aggressive	4.5/5
The Funded Trader	80–90%	2-phase eval	1:200	Yes	4.4/5
Fidelcrest	70–85%	Instant/2-phase	1:100–1:200	Yes	4.2/5

(Data compiled from official firm websites and Trustpilot reviews, 2025)

This table helps traders quickly compare key elements before making a decision.

Best Prop Firms by Category

Best for Beginners

The5ers and MyForexFunds are often recommended for beginners due to flexible rules, lower fees, and educational support.

Best Payout Rates

FTMO and E8 Funding lead the market with up to 90% profit splits, making them attractive for profitable traders.

Easiest Challenge Rules

The Funded Trader offers one of the most lenient challenge structures, while Fidelcrest provides instant funding at higher costs.

Best Long-Term Scaling Opportunities

The5ers has one of the most aggressive scaling plans, doubling accounts regularly for consistent performers.
By categorizing prop firms, traders can find options tailored to their needs instead of a “one-size-fits-all” choice.

Real Trader Experiences & Reviews

Real trader experiences and reviews for proprietary trading firms like FTMO, MyForexFunds, and The Funded Trader vary based on factors like payouts, customer support, rules, and trading style preferences.

FTMO is praised for its reliable and fast payouts, clear and transparent rules, and a strong focus on trader skill development. Traders appreciate 24/7 support, multiple platform options, and coaching services.
The firm is noted for a solid community and well-structured trading challenges but may be relatively costly in evaluation fees.
Numerous traders have shared positive payout experiences, such as receiving $3,000 within 24 hours, and FTMO scores very high on Trustpilot with excellent reviews and many recommendations for disciplined traders who benefit from stricter rules and good risk management.
MyForexFunds is known for affordability and low trading fees but receives mixed reviews mainly due to inconsistent customer support, especially during busy periods. Some traders complain about slippage and claim challenges with order execution or account access.
Despite negative experiences from some users who label it a scam, others praise its trustworthy payouts and helpful support team.
The firm strives to improve its services and has attempted to automate processes for smoother trader experiences.
The Funded Trader offers high leverage and flexible challenges with diverse asset options, which appeals to scalpers and active traders seeking less restrictive rules. However, it faces criticism for inconsistent rule enforcement, unclear trading penalties, and occasional delayed or missed payouts.
The firm has a strong online trading community and educational content, but the Trustpilot rating is average, reflecting mixed satisfaction among users.
Some traders enjoy the 90% profit split and scaling plans, while others express frustration with arbitrary penalties and customer service issues.
Overall, trader experiences show that the suitability of a prop firm depends heavily on individual trading style and discipline.
Swing traders often thrive under FTMO’s structured environment, while scalpers might prefer The Funded Trader’s looser rules. MyForexFunds can be attractive for those seeking lower costs but may require patience with support.
Trader forums and Reddit discussions reinforce that while payouts are generally reliable among top firms, the psychological pressure and strict rules remain significant challenges

Prop Firms vs Self Funding Which is Better?

Criteria	Prop Firm Trading	Self-Funded Trading
Capital Access	Up to $400k+ with scaling	Limited to personal funds
Risk	Firm capital at risk	Trader’s own money
Profit Split	70–90% to trader	100% to trader
Rules & Restrictions	Strict (drawdown, min. days, etc.)	Flexible, trader’s choice
Growth Potential	Scalable accounts	Dependent on personal savings

For new traders, prop firms reduce financial risk and provide access to large capital. However, experienced traders with strong capital may prefer the freedom of self-funding.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Prop Firm

Common mistakes when choosing a prop firm include:

Focusing only on profit split: A high profit split percentage means little if the firm has unreliable or delayed payouts. Ensuring consistent, timely payouts is critical for a good prop firm selection.
Ignoring the rules: Strict drawdown limits, hidden restrictions, or unrealistic challenge targets can quickly wipe out accounts. Carefully reading the FAQs and rule documents is essential to avoid surprises that could nullify strategies.
Not researching reputation: Some firms may close unexpectedly or have poor payment reputations. Checking reviews on Trustpilot and trader forums for real user feedback greatly reduces risk.
Over-leveraging: Treating prop capital recklessly often leads to losses. Overleverage breaks risk management rules meant to protect traders and the firm alike. Effective risk control with stop-loss and position sizing is fundamental.

Additional key points from experienced traders as common pitfalls:

Choosing firms based on influencer hype instead of personal research.
Skipping platform testing for execution quality and latency issues.
Neglecting demo accounts meant to build skills without risking capital.
Not verifying customer support responsiveness before committing.

Conclusion

Compare Prop Firms helps traders make informed decisions by highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each option available in the market. A thorough comparison enables traders to avoid pitfalls such as hidden fees or restrictive rules while capitalizing on firms that offer transparency, scalability, and supportive trading environments. In the competitive landscape of prop trading in 2025, leveraging such comparisons is key to maximizing trading potential and securing a funded account that fits individual needs. The article above from Tipstrade.org has just provided you . We hope that you find it useful. Wishing you successful trading!