Trade real capital and keep most of the profit. We compare the leading funded-trader programs on profit split, fees, rules and how reliably they actually pay.
| Firm | Score | Best for | Profit split | Standout | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FTMO Top pick | 9.3 ★★★★★ | Serious forex & crypto | up to 90% | Proven payouts, great platform | Visit FTMO |
FundedNext Value | 9.0 ★★★★★ | Fast scaling & bonuses | up to 95% | Generous splits & challenges | Visit FundedNext |
The5ers No time limit | 8.8 ★★★★☆ | Slow, low-stress traders | up to 100% | No time pressure to pass | Visit The5ers |
Topstep Futures | 8.6 ★★★★☆ | Futures traders | up to 90% | The original futures prop | Visit Topstep |
Apex Cheap resets | 8.4 ★★★★☆ | Frequent evaluations | up to 90% | Low-cost, frequent discounts | Visit Apex |
Profit splits, fees and rules are representative for 2026 and change often; always confirm the current terms on the firm's site before paying an evaluation fee.
The benchmark of the industry. The most proven payout history, a polished experience and clear rules make it the safest first choice for serious traders.
The value champion. Some of the most generous splits and challenge models in the market, with frequent promotions, if you can navigate the newer track record.
Built for the patient. With no time limit to pass and up to a full profit split on some programs, it rewards discipline over speed.
The name in futures funding. If you trade futures rather than forex or crypto, this is the most established and respected route to funded capital.
We rank each firm on five things that decide whether funded trading is actually worth it for you: payout reliability (do they really pay, and how fast), profit split, cost (evaluation fees and resets), rules (drawdown, consistency and time limits), and track record. We read the fine print most people skip, because in this industry the rules are where the money is won or lost.
Is this the same as investing?
No. You pay a one-time evaluation fee to prove your skill, then trade the firm's capital. You are buying a chance to earn a profit split, not making an investment, and the fee can be lost.
Are prop firms safe?
The best ones have long payout records, but the space has seen failures. Stick to proven names, and never pay an evaluation fee you cannot comfortably lose.
Our top pick has the longest verifiable payout record in the industry.