FTMO vs TopStep
FTMO and TopStep compared across drawdown rules, markets traded, evaluation structure, and which is better for your trading style.
FeatureFTMOTopStep
Primary markets
Forex, crypto, indices, commodities—
CME futures (ES, NQ, CL, GC)—
Daily drawdown
5% of balance—
Fixed dollar amount—
Drawdown type
Static from initial balance
Trailing (locks at starting balance)
Maximum drawdown
10% static
$2,000–$4,500 trailing
Profit target (Phase 1)
10%—
$3,000–$9,000—
Minimum trading days
4 days
No minimum (TopStep Express)
Profit split
Up to 90%—
Up to 90%—
Crypto trading
Yes
No (futures only)
Forex trading
Yes
No (futures only)
EA / bots
Allowed (own logic)—
Allowed—
Verdict
FTMO and TopStep target different markets — FTMO is for forex/crypto traders, TopStep is for CME futures traders. If you trade futures (ES, NQ, CL), TopStep is the natural choice. If you trade forex or crypto, FTMO is the standard. They are not really competitors.