TopStep vs Earn2Trade 2026
Complete comparison of two top-rated CME futures funding platforms
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| Metric | TopStep | Earn2Trade |
|---|---|---|
| Challenge Fee | $225 - $399 | $298 - $398 |
| Account Sizes | $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K | $5K, $10K, $25K, $50K, $100K, $200K |
| Profit Split | 80% trader / 20% firm | 80% trader / 20% firm |
| Daily Drawdown | 5% | 5% |
| Total Drawdown | 10% | 10% |
| Trading Instrument | CME Micro Futures | CME Micro Futures |
| Scaling Levels | Growth Ladder | Up to 8 scaling phases |
| Free Practice Account | Limited | Yes, full access |
TopStep: Industry Veteran
TopStep has been operating for over 12 years and has funded thousands of traders successfully. The platform is known for its straightforward evaluation process, consistent rules, and reliable payouts. TopStep focuses exclusively on CME micro futures trading.
TopStep Advantages
- Longest track record in the industry (12+ years)
- Lowest challenge fees of the two ($225 starting)
- Simple, consistent rule set across all accounts
- Proven payout infrastructure and reliability
- Strong trader community and resources
- Growth Ladder provides clear scaling path
TopStep Limitations
- Minimum account size is $25K (no smaller options)
- Less modern platform UI compared to newer firms
- Limited practice account resources
- Fewer account tier options than Earn2Trade
Earn2Trade: Modern Innovation
Earn2Trade is a newer but rapidly growing prop firm focusing on trader success and support. The company offers more flexibility in account sizes and emphasizes educational content and practice opportunities to help traders succeed.
Earn2Trade Strengths
- Smallest starting account size ($5K) for beginners
- Full free practice trading account
- Modern, user-friendly platform interface
- More aggressive scaling opportunities (8 phases)
- Responsive customer support team
- Regular educational webinars and coaching
Earn2Trade Considerations
- Slightly higher challenge fees than TopStep
- Newer company with less historical track record
- Stricter enforcement on some trading rules
- Growth through scaling not guaranteed
Challenge Fee Analysis
TopStep Pricing (2026)
$25K Challenge: $225 | $50K: $299 | $100K: $349 | $200K: $399
TopStep maintains some of the lowest challenge fees in the entire prop trading industry. For a $25K account, you're investing just $225 to access real trading capital.
Earn2Trade Pricing (2026)
$5K Challenge: $298 | $10K: $298 | $25K: $298 | $50K: $348 | $100K: $398 | $200K: $398
Earn2Trade charges flat fees per account size, making smaller accounts more accessible. The $298 fee applies to $5K-$25K accounts, which is higher per-dollar than TopStep's $25K, but allows $5K and $10K starts.
Trading Rules & Strategy Support
TopStep Trading Rules
TopStep prohibits news trading during major economic announcements and requires end-of-day position closing. Hedging is not allowed, and automated trading systems are banned. Scalping is permitted within reason, and swing trading is fully supported. The firm enforces a 1:1 risk-reward minimum.
Earn2Trade Trading Rules
Earn2Trade has similar restrictions to TopStep but allows slightly more flexibility in some areas. News trading is restricted, but the firm is more lenient on position hold times. Scalping is permitted, and swing trading is fully allowed. Earn2Trade also enforces the 1:1 risk-reward ratio requirement.
Both firms focus on teaching risk management and consistent profitability rather than aggressive leverage trading. This makes them suitable for traders of various experience levels.
Scaling & Long-Term Growth Potential
TopStep's Growth Ladder
TopStep uses their proprietary "Growth Ladder" system to scale funded traders. As you remain profitable and maintain rule compliance, your account size increases through defined rungs. The system is straightforward and transparent about what growth looks like.
Earn2Trade's Scaling (8 Phases)
Earn2Trade offers up to 8 scaling phases for traders who perform well. This more aggressive scaling system rewards consistent profitability with faster account growth. Traders can potentially reach $1M+ accounts after multiple scaling phases.
For long-term income seekers, Earn2Trade's 8-phase scaling offers more aggressive growth potential. TopStep's Growth Ladder is more conservative but reliable.
Practice & Educational Resources
TopStep: Offers limited free practice opportunities. Most traders jump directly into the challenge. Educational resources include community forums and occasional webinars, but not comprehensive training programs.
Earn2Trade: Provides full access to a free practice trading account with simulated money. New traders can practice unlimited before paying for a challenge. Regular educational webinars, coaching sessions, and detailed video tutorials help traders prepare for success.
For beginners unsure about prop trading, Earn2Trade's extensive practice resources are invaluable. Experienced traders may find TopStep's direct challenge approach more efficient.
FAQ
Who Should Choose Each?
Choose TopStep if: You're an experienced trader with at least $25K to invest in the challenge, value lowest fees, and want the longest-established firm with proven reliability. TopStep is perfect for traders who prefer straightforward rules and a simple evaluation process.
Choose Earn2Trade if: You want to start small ($5K), need extensive practice and educational resources, and value modern platform design. Earn2Trade is ideal for newer traders wanting comprehensive support before and during their evaluation.
Many traders use Earn2Trade first to practice and learn, then graduate to TopStep's higher account sizes as they gain experience. Both are excellent, legitimate firms.
Promotional Offers 2026
Both TopStep and Earn2Trade run seasonal discounts and promotional campaigns. PropFirmDealFinder tracks all current offers, allowing you to find the best pricing before starting your challenge.
Current discounts can reduce challenge costs by 15-30%, making the investment significantly more affordable. Always check PropFirmDealFinder for active codes before purchasing a challenge.
Get the Best Deal Today
Both TopStep and Earn2Trade offer legitimate funding opportunities for CME futures traders. Check PropFirmDealFinder for current discount codes and promotional rates.
View Current Promos Download Free AppUse code PFDF for exclusive rates.