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Updated 2026-03-08
E8 Markets vs City Traders Imperium: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Choosing between E8 Markets and City Traders Imperium comes down to whether you prioritize lower entry costs or faster access to your profits. E8 Markets offers a significantly cheaper $100K challenge at $234 versus City Traders Imperium's $412, while also requiring just a 6% profit target compared to 8%. However, City Traders Imperium counters with weekly payouts and higher maximum drawdown limits. This comparison examines the key differences in challenge structure, payout policies, and trading conditions to help you decide which firm better matches your trading style and budget.
EM
E8 Markets
Est. 2021 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.5
3,200 reviews
VS
3 wins
5 ties
4 wins
CT
City Traders Imperium
Est. 2018 · London, UK
4.2
1,500 reviews
Feature
E8 Markets
City Traders Imperium
Challenge Price ($100K)
$234✓ Lower entry cost
$412
Phase 1 Profit Target
6%✓ Easier to pass
8%
Max Total Loss
4%
5%✓ More drawdown room
Min Trading Days
1 days✓ More flexible
3 days
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
80% (up to 100%)
80% (up to 100%)
Payout Frequency
N/A
weekly✓ Faster payouts
Platforms
MT5
MT5, Match-Trader✓ More platform options
E8 Markets
Pros
+Single-phase challenge — no Phase 2, pass with just 6% profit target
+Pass in as little as 1 day with no minimum trading day requirement
+Up to 100% profit split available on E8 ONE accounts
+Copy trading across your own accounts is fully permitted
+E8 ONE offers selectable drawdown (4–14%) and payout (80–100%) to match your style
Cons
−No separate daily loss limit — relies solely on EOD total drawdown (4% on Signature)
−Payouts are discretionary and subject to E8's acceptance of performance data
−Cross-account hedging and signal services are prohibited
−E8 ONE funded accounts have a 5-minute news restriction around high-impact events
−60-day inactivity rule — account closed if no trade placed within 60 days
City Traders Imperium
Pros
+Multiple account types: 1-step, 2-step challenges, and instant funding options
+Unlimited time limits on challenges with no expiration dates
+Up to 100% profit share available through VIP program progression
+Free access to CTI Academy educational content with all accounts
+24/7 multilingual customer support with 1-hour first response time
Cons
−No refunds available once any trading activity occurs on the account
−Limited information about specific trading instruments and leverage ratios
−Relatively high instant funding fees compared to challenge options
−VIP benefits require meeting specific performance criteria
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
E8 Markets suits budget-conscious traders and those who prefer easier challenge requirements. With a $234 entry cost versus $412 and a 6% profit target versus 8%, it's clearly the more accessible option for newer traders or those testing multiple prop firms. The minimal trading day requirement (1 vs 3 days) also appeals to flexible trading schedules.
City Traders Imperium works better for active traders who prioritize quick access to their earnings and need more drawdown room. The weekly payout frequency is a significant advantage over E8 Markets' unclear payout timeline, and the 5% maximum total loss versus 4% provides more breathing room for volatile strategies. The firm's longer track record since 2018 also adds credibility.
For most traders starting their prop firm journey, E8 Markets wins due to its lower barrier to entry and easier challenge structure. However, if you're confident in passing challenges quickly and want regular weekly income, City Traders Imperium's payout advantage justifies the higher upfront cost.
Choose E8 Markets if:
→Single-phase challenge — no Phase 2, pass with just 6% profit target
→Pass in as little as 1 day with no minimum trading day requirement
→Up to 100% profit split available on E8 ONE accounts
→Copy trading across your own accounts is fully permitted
Choose City Traders Imperium if:
→Multiple account types: 1-step, 2-step challenges, and instant funding options
→Unlimited time limits on challenges with no expiration dates
→Up to 100% profit share available through VIP program progression
→Free access to CTI Academy educational content with all accounts
Disclaimer:This comparison is for informational purposes only. Prop firm rules change regularly — always verify current terms on each firm's official website before purchasing a challenge. This is not financial advice. Updated 2026-03-08.