FTMO vs Apex Trader Funding: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between FTMO and Apex Trader Funding face a decision between proven consistency and trading flexibility. FTMO offers a traditional two-phase evaluation with higher profit targets but more room for drawdown, while Apex Trader Funding provides a single-phase challenge with no daily loss limits but tighter overall risk parameters. This comparison examines their evaluation structures, trading rules, and payout terms to help you determine which firm aligns with your trading strategy and risk tolerance.
F
FTMO
Est. 2015 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.8
40,000 reviews
VS
6 wins
3 ties
5 wins
AT
Apex Trader Funding
Est. 2021 · Austin, USA
4.4
18,000 reviews
Feature
FTMO
Apex Trader Funding
Challenge Price ($100K)
$540
N/A
Phase 1 Profit Target
10%
6%✓ Easier to pass
Phase 2 Profit Target
5%
None (single-phase)✓ Single-phase evaluation
Max Daily Loss
5%
No limit✓ No daily loss limit
Max Total Loss
10%✓ More drawdown room
4%
Min Trading Days
4 days
1 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
30 days
Payout Split
80% (up to 90%)
100%✓ Higher profit split
FTMO
Pros
+Most established and trusted brand in prop trading (est. 2015)
+Free retry policy if profit target met but other rule breached
+Strong payout track record — $500M+ total paid to traders
+Performance coaching and FTMO Academy included
Cons
−News trading restricted (2 min buffer around major events)
−Higher challenge prices than most competitors at same account sizes
−Scaling plan slower than rivals (25% increase every 4 months)
−Maximum initial allocation capped at $200K before scaling
Apex Trader Funding
Pros
+One day minimum to pass evaluation with simple rules
+100% profit split - no revenue sharing with the firm
+Fast payouts every 5 trading days with no payout denials
+One-time fees with no recurring billing or subscription costs
+Up to 20 accounts allowed per trader with built-in scaling
Cons
−Futures trading only - no forex or stock options available
−50% consistency rule limits profit concentration from best trading days
−No reset options available on evaluation accounts
−Maximum 6 payout requests allowed per account
−Account expires after 30 days of inactivity
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
FTMO suits disciplined swing traders and those who prefer traditional prop firm structures. Its 10% total drawdown limit provides more breathing room for position sizing, and the two-phase evaluation, while more demanding with 10% and 5% profit targets, offers a proven path to funded accounts. The firm's 8-year track record and 4.8/5 Trustpilot rating from 40,000 reviews demonstrate reliability, making it ideal for traders who can meet higher profit targets consistently.
Apex Trader Funding excels for scalpers and active day traders who need maximum intraday flexibility. The single-phase evaluation with just a 6% profit target and no daily loss limits removes the pressure of hitting daily drawdown thresholds, crucial for high-frequency strategies. However, the 4% total drawdown limit demands precise risk management. For traders confident in their ability to stay within tight overall risk parameters while benefiting from unlimited daily flexibility, Apex Trader Funding offers a more accessible path to funding.
Choose FTMO if you're a swing trader who values drawdown room and proven stability. Choose Apex Trader Funding if you're a day trader or scalper who prioritizes intraday flexibility over total drawdown allowance.
Choose FTMO if:
→Most established and trusted brand in prop trading (est. 2015)
→Free retry policy if profit target met but other rule breached
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.