In the competitive world of proprietary trading, Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO remains a top search for traders seeking funded accounts in 2026. These firms dominate futures and forex prop trading, each with unique rules, payouts, and updates. Whether you’re a futures scalper or forex swing trader, this updated 2026 comparison breaks down key differences to help you choose the best fit.
Apex Trader Funding leads in futures flexibility, Topstep emphasizes disciplined education, and FTMO excels in multi-asset scaling. Recent 2025-2026 changes include Apex’s DCA allowance, Topstep’s brokerage launch, and FTMO’s OANDA acquisition plus India expansion.
Why Compare Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO in 2026?
Prop firms provide simulated capital after evaluations, letting traders keep most profits. Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO stands out for reliability, payouts, and trader feedback.
- Apex: Futures-focused, high payouts ($598M+ distributed), flexible rules.
- Topstep: Pioneering futures firm with coaching, recent platform shifts.
- FTMO: Forex/CFD leader with scaling to $2M, strong global reach.
All three suit different styles—futures for Apex/Topstep, broader assets for FTMO.
Key Features: Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO Head-to-Head
| Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep | FTMO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Assets | Futures | Futures | Forex, Indices, Metals, Crypto |
| Evaluation | Single-step, flexible | One-step Combine (2025 update) | Two-step Challenge + Verification |
| Account Sizes | Up to $300K, scaling potential | Up to $150K | Up to $200K, scale to $2M |
| Profit Split | 100% on first $25K, then 90/10 | 100% on first $10K, then 90/10 | 80-90% |
| Drawdown Rules | Trailing (6% typical), no daily | End-of-day trailing | Daily + overall |
| Payout Speed | On-demand after 8 days, fast ACH | Daily after milestones | Bi-weekly/on-demand |
| Platforms | Tradovate, NinjaTrader, WealthCharts | TopstepX (mandatory 2025) | MT4/MT5, cTrader |
| Recent Updates | DCA allowed, WealthCharts added | Brokerage launch (Jan 2026), platform fixes | OANDA acquisition, US/India return |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.5/5 (11K+ reviews) | 4.3/5 (improving post-outages) | 4.8/5 |
Topstep wins for structure, Apex for freedom, FTMO for asset variety.
Apex Trader Funding: Flexible Futures Leader in 2026
Apex shines with no daily loss limits and news trading (with restrictions). 2025-2026 updates include DCA in funded accounts and on-demand payouts after 8 trading days (5 profitable). Consistency rule caps best day at 30% of profits.
Payouts hit records ($2.5M single-day in 2025), with $598M+ total. Ideal for scalpers using automation.
Topstep: Discipline and Education in Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO
Topstep’s 2025-2026 shifts include mandatory TopstepX platform and new brokerage for transferring prop earnings to personal accounts (launched Jan 2026). End-of-day drawdown offers breathing room.
Profit share: 100% first $10K, then 90%. Coaching and community help beginners. Despite past outages, fixes improved reliability.
FTMO: Multi-Asset Powerhouse with Global Expansion
FTMO’s two-phase eval suits consistent traders. 2025-2026 highlights: OANDA acquisition, US return, India launch (Dec 2025). Scaling reaches $2M with 90% splits.
No daily loss in some models; swing trading allowed. Fast payouts (average 8 hours) and $450M+ distributed.
Automation with PickMyTrade in Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO
Automation boosts efficiency in prop trading. PickMyTrade excels for automated trading across these firms, especially futures on Tradovate (Apex/Topstep).
It copies trades, enforces rules (bracket orders), and mirrors signals from TradingView. For Apex/Topstep, it handles drawdown alerts; FTMO allows compliant copy trading. Setup is quick, aiding multi-account scaling and risk diversification in 2026.
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Which Firm Wins in Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO?
- Choose Apex for futures flexibility, fast payouts, and automation compatibility.
- Pick Topstep for education, daily withdrawals, and structured growth.
- Go with FTMO for forex variety, scaling, and reliability.
Test evaluations to match your style.
FAQs: Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO
What is the best prop firm in 2026: Apex, Topstep, or FTMO?
It depends—Apex for futures freedom, Topstep for discipline, FTMO for multi-assets.
Can I use automation like PickMyTrade with these firms?
Yes, PickMyTrade works well for Apex/Topstep on Tradovate and compliant setups on FTMO.
Which has the fastest payouts in Apex vs Topstep vs FTMO?
Apex (on-demand), FTMO (8-hour average), Topstep (daily after milestones).
Can beginners succeed with these firms?
Yes—Topstep offers coaching; all provide evaluations to prove skills.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Trading and investing in financial markets involve risk, and it is possible to lose some or all of your capital. Always perform your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any trading decisions. The mention of any proprietary trading firms, brokers, does not constitute an endorsement or partnership. Ensure you understand all terms, conditions, and compliance requirements of the firms and platforms you use.
Also Checkout: Connect Tradovate with Trading view using PickMyTrade
