A futures prop trading firm is a program where you prove skill under defined risk rules usually in a simulated environment first, then earn withdrawals based on performance, sometimes with a pathway into live trading. Read on this Futures Prop Trading Firms for Full-Time Traders review to know more about each firm.
Full-time traders need repeatable payout cycles, clear drawdown math, and minimal “gotchas” like consistency caps, buffer requirements, and payout windows. These firms can be relevant because:
- They let you trade larger notional exposure without depositing large personal margin
- They enforce risk discipline through daily loss limits, drawdown rules, and position caps
- They shift your primary constraint from capital to rule compliance
5 Futures Prop Trading Firms for Full-Time Traders: Analytical Comparasion
| Firm | Typical path structure | Drawdown model | Consistency | Payout cadence and mechanics | Profit split |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apex Trader Funding | One-step evaluation to performance account | Trailing drawdown that follows peaks until a safety level, then stops moving | A best-day share limit (consistency) applies early and relaxes later | Frequent payout cycles, but first payouts require buffers and rule compliance | Headline split is strong, with conditions and thresholds |
| Take Profit Trader | One-step to PRO; PRO+ positioned as live upgrade | Withdrawals depend on a buffer in PRO; PRO+ marketed as EOD-style and no buffer | Typically less “best day” friction, more buffer-driven gating | Can request withdrawals early, but only above buffer on PRO | PRO split is lower; PRO+ marketed higher |
| Elite Trader Funding | Evaluation to sim-funded; potential live transition | Safety-net threshold to unlock payout eligibility; additional controls via ATD logic | “Best day” cap rules plus active-trading-day qualification | Sim payouts on a fixed weekly cadence; live payouts marketed more frequently | Headline split is strong with eligibility and caps |
| Topstep | Combine → Express Funded → Live Funded | Maximum Loss Limit ratchets upward based on highs and can stop moving at a point | Combine has consistency targets (best day share) | Payout access depends on stage and eligibility rules; marketed as fast in Express | Profit split is standardized and clearly defined |
| Earn2Trade | Structured programs; career-path ladder | EOD-style minimum balance that rises with end-of-day profits | Consistency and position-size ladder constraints | Withdrawals processed on a weekly schedule with minimums and fees | Effective split typically around 80/20 after deductions |
1. Apex Trader Funding – Simple one-step funding for futures traders.
Apex Trader Funding operates within the growing proprietary trading ecosystem, positioning itself as a performance-based capital access platform for futures traders seeking scale without deploying substantial personal capital. Its core proposition centers on a single-step evaluation model, emphasizing risk discipline and consistency over multi-phase challenges, reflecting an industry shift toward simplified qualification frameworks designed to attract high-volume and retail-professional traders.
From an analytical standpoint, Apex’s model transfers market risk away from traders while retaining operational control through predefined drawdown limits and behavioral trading rules. This structure enables the firm to monetize evaluation fees while selectively allocating capital to compliant traders, positioning Apex less as a traditional investment partner and more as a risk-filtering intermediary within the futures trading ecosystem.
Apex Trader Funding Key Details
- One-step evaluation process: Traders aim to reach profit targets without complex multi-stage hurdles.
- Profit splits: Traders receive 100% of the first $25,000 in profits and 90% beyond that.
- Regular payouts: Profit withdrawals occur every 8 days.
- No daily drawdown limit: Apex does not impose daily drawdown rules.
- Trading flexibility: Traders can trade full-sized futures contracts in both evaluation and funded accounts and are allowed to trade across holidays and news hours.
- Multiple accounts: Traders can hold up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously.
- Instruments: Futures contracts including equities, currencies, energies, metals, and more are supported.
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Apex Trader Funding: Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Structure | One-step evaluation process targeting futures traders with straightforward profit goals and risk rules |
| Profit Split | Traders keep 100% of the first $25,000 in profits and 90% thereafter |
| Payout Schedule | Profit withdrawals are available on a regular cadence (every 8 days) |
| Tradeable Markets | Full-sized futures contracts across equities, currencies, energies, metals, micro futures, and more |
| Drawdown Rules | No daily drawdown limits imposed |
| Trading Flexibility | Traders can trade holidays and news sessions with normal strategies |
| Account Options | Multiple platform plans including Rithmic, Tradovate, and WealthCharts with a wide range of starting capital sizes |
| Simultaneous Accounts | Traders can hold and trade up to 20 funded accounts concurrently |
| Minimum Trading Days | Traders may qualify for profit withdrawals after fulfilling minimum active trading days |
| Evaluation & Funded Accounts | Evaluation accounts convert to a Performance Account (PA) upon passing, with ongoing trading under PA terms |
Apex Trader Funding positions itself as a futures-focused prop firm offering a simple one-step evaluation, high profit splits, and flexible risk management through a trailing threshold. With features such as no daily drawdowns, frequent payouts, and the ability to trade full-sized contracts, news events, and holidays, the platform is designed for traders seeking funded capital with fewer restrictions. Overall, Apex presents a structured yet flexible funding framework for disciplined futures traders looking to scale their trading without using personal capital.
Apex Trader Funding – Strengths & Considerations
| Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Clear and simple one-step evaluation process | Focused primarily on futures markets only |
| 100% profit on first $25,000, then 90% profit split | Payouts are not instantaneous — they occur on a fixed schedule (every 8 days) |
| No daily drawdown limits and flexible risk rules | Primarily for traders comfortable with futures trading |
| Ability to trade full-size contracts during evaluation and funded stages | Limited to futures — no forex or other asset classes |
| Supports up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously | Not focused on extensive educational programs |
| Regular payout cadence enhances cash flow predictability | Profit split tiers focus on futures instruments |
2. Take Profit Trader – A streamlined futures prop firm
Take Profit Trader positions itself as a proprietary futures trading funding firm designed to empower disciplined traders by providing access to funded accounts following a structured evaluation process. Traders select a futures account size and pursue a profit target under a defined set of risk rules; successful completion of this evaluation grants access to a PRO account where profits can be withdrawn from day one and shared under an 80/20 profit-split arrangement.
The platform emphasizes a straightforward, no-nonsense model with immediate profit access, a simplified progression to enhanced PRO+ status, and a suite of services including risk management, customer support, and scalable account options.
Take Profit Trader Key Details
- One-step evaluation: Traders reach a profit target while following defined risk rules to qualify for a PRO account.
- Immediate withdrawal: Once funded, traders can withdraw profits from the very first day of trading.
- Profit splits: Standard PRO accounts offer an 80/20 split, with upgraded PRO+ accounts offering 90/10 and end-of-day drawdown features.
- Multiple platforms supported: Traders can connect via platforms such as NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and TradingView.
- Account progression: Traders may upgrade to live market PRO+ accounts where orders are sent to regulated brokers.
- Five PRO accounts: Traders can manage up to five PRO accounts concurrently.
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Take Profit Trader – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Structure | One-step evaluation that leads directly to a funded PRO account once profit target and risk rules are met |
| Account Journey | Traders select a futures account size, prove trading ability under risk rules, earn PRO status, and start withdrawing profits immediately |
| Profit Split | Standard PRO accounts typically offer an 80/20 split, with 90/10 split available in upgraded PRO+ accounts |
| Profit Withdrawal | Profit can be withdrawn from day one of funded PRO account trading |
| Platforms Supported | Connect via 15+ trading platforms (e.g., NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView and others) |
| Evaluation Focus | Traders must reach profit targets while following defined risk management rules to qualify for PRO |
| Account Progression | PRO accounts can be upgraded to PRO+ with enhanced features and profit splits |
| Concurrent Accounts | Traders can manage up to five PRO accounts at once |
| Evaluation Instruments | Focused on futures markets with various contract sizes |
| User Experience | Streamlined, no-nonsense process emphasizing quick qualification and easy profit access |
Take Profit Trader positions itself as a trader-first proprietary funding firm focused on providing a streamlined path from evaluation to funded futures trading with a strong emphasis on day-one profit access, platform flexibility, and straightforward risk rules.
With benefits such as immediate withdrawals upon qualification, a clear progression to live PRO+ accounts with higher profit splits, and supportive resources like live chat and a comprehensive knowledge base, Take Profit Trader is best suited for experienced futures traders who seek capital access through a structured funding model rather than trading their own funds, and who value a simplified, transparent evaluation and payout process.
Take Profit Trader – Strengths & Considerations
| Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|
| One-step evaluation model that is easy to follow | Evaluation must be passed before profit withdrawal eligibility |
| Profit withdrawal from day one of funded PRO accounts | Standard profit split is lower than some competitors (80%) |
| PRO+ accounts can offer 90% profit splits | Higher profit split tied to upgraded account tiers |
| Supports many trading platforms (e.g., NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView) | Focus is mainly on futures markets |
| Up to five PRO accounts concurrently | Intensive futures trading focus may not suit all traders |
| Offers account resets and progression opportunities | Evaluation risk rules must be followed strictly |
3. Elite Trader Funding– Structured Evaluations with Scaling Opportunities
Elite Trader Funding (ETF) is a proprietary futures trading firm that offers traders a structured pathway to access real trading capital by demonstrating proficiency in risk management, consistency, and profitability within a simulated evaluation environment. The core proposition of ETF is to enable traders—from beginners to seasoned practitioners—to “gain real capital and turn strategy into results” without initially risking their own funds, positioning the platform as both an educational and professional funding solution.
A key indicator of ETF’s scale and adoption is its reported growth metrics, including tens of thousands of customers, millions of dollars paid out to traders, and a large base of sim-funded traders progressing through its programs. These figures suggest that Elite Trader Funding operates at a meaningful scale within the prop trading ecosystem and focuses heavily on trader onboarding and progression.
Elite Trader Funding Key Features
- Structured Path to Capital: Progression from evaluation to Elite Sim-Funded accounts based on performance and discipline
- Multiple Evaluation Models: Static, End of Day, Diamond Hands, Fast Track, One-Step, and Direct-to-Funded plans
- Large-Scale Adoption: Tens of thousands of traders and millions paid out, reflecting platform maturity
- Platform Compatibility: Supports TradingView, NinjaTrader, Rithmic, and Tradovate
- Defined Risk Framework: Clear rules on drawdowns, profit targets, and position limits
- Flexible Activation Options: One-time or subscription-based funded account activation
- Performance-Based Profit Sharing: Traders keep a significant share of funded profits
- Transparent Plan Comparison: Side-by-side rule and cost breakdowns available
- Clear Qualification Process: Step-by-step path from evaluation to payouts
- Educational Support: Dedicated help center and platform guidance
- Purchase Protection: First-time buyer guarantee for plan selection
- Geographic Compliance: Country-based eligibility and payout restrictions
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Elite Trader Funding – Program Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Structure | Multiple challenge types in simulated accounts leading to Elite Sim-Funded stage |
| Drawdown & Risk Options | Static, End of Day, Diamond Hands, Fast Track, One Step, Direct to Funded plans |
| Minimum Trading Days | Typically around 5 trading days to pass evaluation |
| Profit Split | Traders can keep up to 100% of lifetime simulated profits |
| Payout Access | Same-day payout approval once funded conditions are met |
| Plan Flexibility | Plans designed for different trader levels (Beginner to Master) |
| Platforms Supported | TradingView, NinjaTrader, Rithmic, Tradovate |
Elite Trader Funding is a proprietary trading platform that provides traders with a structured pathway to earn real trading capital through performance-based evaluations. The platform’s strength lies in its flexible challenge models, which accommodate a range of trading styles—from Static and End-of-Day formats to Fast Track and Direct-to-Funded options—allowing traders to select an evaluation that aligns with their risk tolerance and skill level.
With its wide plan selection, clear rules, and community support ecosystem, Elite Trader Funding is best suited for traders who are serious about developing consistent risk-managed performance and scaling their futures trading strategies within a professional funding framework.
Elite Trader Funding – Strengths & Considerations
| Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Multiple evaluation plans for different trading styles | Evaluation requires consistent performance |
| Up to 100% profit on lifetime simulated gains | Progression depends on discipline and rule adherence |
| Same-day payout approval once funded | Some plans may include monthly or activation fees |
| Broad platform support | Different drawdown rules require careful plan selection |
| Pathway to live elite trading | Must strictly follow plan-specific rules |
4. Topstep- Cashflow and Risk Mechanics
Topstep is a futures prop trading program built around a clear progression from evaluation to funded stages, designed for traders who want structure, defined risk limits, and a predictable rulebook. For full-time traders, the real value is in how transparent the framework is: you know the account sizes, the profit targets, how the Maximum Loss Limit behaves, and what consistency requirements you must meet before payouts become repeatable.
Topstep Key Features
- Program path: Trading Combine → Express Funded Account → Live Funded Account
- Account sizes: $50K, $100K, $150K
- Profit targets (by size): $3,000 (50K), $6,000 (100K), $9,000 (150K)
- Consistency Target (Trading Combine): best day must be below 50% of total profits made
- Maximum Loss Limit (MLL): $2,000 (50K), $3,000 (100K), $4,500 (150K)
- Express Funded payout eligibility (consistency path): minimum 3 trading days, at least 1 trade per day, and 40% consistency target
- Max funded accounts: up to 5 active Express Funded Accounts at once; 1 Live Funded Account per trader
- Profit split for new joiners: if you join on/after January 12, 2026, payouts use a 90/10 split (per trader, not per account)
- Daily Loss Limit behavior (when enabled): if exceeded, the account is auto-liquidated for the rest of the day and trading resumes the next trading day start (5 PM CT)
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| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Program path | Trading Combine → Express Funded → Live Funded |
| Account sizes | $50K, $100K, $150K |
| Profit targets | $3,000 (50K), $6,000 (100K), $9,000 (150K) |
| Max Loss Limit (MLL) | $2,000 (50K), $3,000 (100K), $4,500 (150K) |
| Combine consistency | Best day must be below 50% of total profits made |
| Express payout eligibility (one path) | 3 trading days, 1 trade/day, 40% consistency target |
| Max positions (Combine) | 5 (50K), 10 (100K), 15 (150K) |
| Funded limits | Up to 5 Express Funded accounts; 1 Live Funded account per trader |
| Profit split (new joiners) | Join on/after Jan 12, 2026: 90/10 split (per trader) |
| Daily loss limit behavior | If breached (when enabled), positions are auto-liquidated for the rest of the day; trading resumes next session start (5 PM CT) |
Topstep is built around a structured ladder and a transparent risk framework, with explicit consistency requirements and a trailing minimum balance model. For a full-time trader, it fits best when your edge produces repeatable profits with controlled drawdowns, because the rules reward stability and distribution discipline more than occasional outsized days.
Topstep- Strengths and considerations
| Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Clear staged structure with defined requirements | Consistency targets can slow or block progress for high-variance strategies |
| Transparent MLL values by account size | Trailing floor punishes profit givebacks after a new peak |
| Multi-account support (up to 5 Express Funded) | More accounts increases operational error risk and rule-compliance load |
| Profit split is explicitly stated for post Jan 12, 2026 joiners | Split is per trader, so scaling math must be done at trader level, not account level |
| Defined Live Funded profit targets by account size | Daily loss controls can auto-liquidate the day if breached |
5. Earn2Trade – An education-driven prop firm
Earn2Trade is a U.S.-based futures trading education and evaluation firm that positions itself as a structured gateway for aspiring traders to transition from learning to professional funded trading. Through its core programs—the Trader Career Path and The Gauntlet Mini—Earn2Trade offers traders the opportunity to demonstrate their market skills on simulated accounts, meet defined profit and risk management targets, and, upon successful completion, receive a funding offer from proprietary trading partners to trade live capital and retain a majority share of profits.
With over eight years in operation and thousands of funded accounts established in 2024, the platform emphasizes disciplined risk control, progressive account scaling, and accessible educational resources designed to support traders at different experience levels. With underscore user perceptions of supportive communication and well-structured challenges, while detailed disclaimers clarify the inherent risks associated with futures trading and the rigorous nature of the evaluation process.
Earn2Trade Key Details
- Trader Career Path®: A structured evaluation program on virtual accounts designed to test risk management and trading skills.
- The Gauntlet Mini™: An intraday futures trading exam where traders must reach profit targets without violating rules over at least 10 trading days, potentially earning funding quickly.
- Skill development emphasis: Educational content and tools to help traders sharpen their capabilities before moving to funded trading.
- Funding offers: Successful candidates may receive funding offers matching the evaluation account size.
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Earn2Trade – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Structure | Offers structured evaluation programs designed to test trading skills and risk management before securing funding – the Trader Career Path® and The Gauntlet Mini™ |
| Trader Career Path® | A growth-oriented evaluation on virtual accounts where traders demonstrate risk control and profit generation to qualify for funding |
| The Gauntlet Mini™ | An intraday futures trading evaluation where traders can earn funding after a minimum of 10 trading days |
| Education Focus | Educational resources and tools are integrated to help traders improve their skills during the evaluation process |
| Trading Environment | Evaluations use virtual futures accounts to assess performance before matching with funded capital |
| Funding Pathway | Successful traders receive offers from a proprietary trading partner after passing evaluations |
| Profit Scaling | Traders may upgrade to larger account sizes as they meet targets and achieve consistent results |
| Supported Instruments | Focuses on futures products (e.g., CME, COMEX, NYMEX, CBOT markets) |
| Assessment Purpose | Both programs are designed to build risk discipline and consistent trading performance before funded account access |
| Performance Criteria | Traders must follow defined rules and meet profit & risk targets to complete evaluations and qualify for funded offers |
Earn2Trade’s offering provides a structured and transparent pathway to funded futures trading through performance-based evaluations. With access to both the growth-focused Trader Career Path® and the fast-track Gauntlet Mini™, the platform supports different trading styles while maintaining a strong emphasis on rule-based discipline and risk management.
The clearly defined objectives and simulated trading environment position Earn2Trade as a professional-grade program, though the challenging evaluation standards and low pass rates indicate it is best suited for experienced and disciplined futures traders rather than complete beginners. Overall, Earn2Trade is a solid choice for international traders seeking a credible, structured route to proprietary trading capital.
Earn2Trade – Strengths & Considerations
| Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Combines education with funding evaluation | Evaluation programs may take longer than single-stage tests |
| Programs designed to build trader skills and discipline | Traders must perform consistently to pass evaluations |
| Offers multiple evaluation programs (Career Path® and Gauntlet Mini™) | Funding is achieved only after evaluation completion |
| Virtual accounts allow practice before funded status | More structured and potentially more complex than one-step models |
| Supports funding offers up to significant account sizes | Not instant — dependent on performance and rules adherence |
Conclusion
For Futures Prop Trading Firms for Full-Time Traders: Apex Trader Funding fits traders who want frequent payout cycles and can manage trailing drawdown plus consistency limits, while Take Profit Trader suits those who prefer simpler, buffer-driven withdrawal mechanics and faster access once the cushion is built. Elite Trader Funding rewards steady, professional-style profit distribution but adds more qualification friction, Topstep is the most structured ladder with clear risk controls that favor repeatable output over spike days, and Earn2Trade works best for disciplined traders who want a rule-driven progression model and can operate comfortably within weekly withdrawal rhythms.
Which firm is most suitable for low-variance, steady day-to-day traders?
Topstep and Elite typically favor consistent daily output because they emphasize profit distribution rules and qualifying-day style requirements.
What’s the biggest rule category that blocks full-time traders from withdrawals?
Profit distribution rules (best-day caps, consistency rules) and buffer/safety-net requirements. Many traders hit targets but fail withdrawal eligibility due to these gates.
Which firm is best for multi-account scaling as a full-time strategy?
Apex is commonly used for multi-account scaling. Topstep also allows multiple Express funded accounts, but you should factor in operational complexity and compliance risk.
