Choosing between FTMO and DNA Funded comes down to whether you prioritize proven stability or streamlined evaluation processes. FTMO offers more generous risk parameters with 10% total drawdown versus DNA Funded's restrictive 6%, while DNA Funded eliminates the two-phase evaluation with their single-phase challenge. This comparison examines the trading rules, costs, and structural differences that will determine which firm aligns with your trading strategy and risk tolerance. Both firms restrict news trading and offer similar profit targets, but their approach to risk management and evaluation phases creates distinct advantages for different trader profiles.
F
FTMO
Est. 2015 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.8
40,000 reviews
VS
7 wins
5 ties
2 wins
DF
DNA Funded
Est. 2023 · Australia
4.5
2,000 reviews
Feature
FTMO
DNA Funded
Challenge Price ($100K)
$540✓ Lower entry cost
$619
Phase 1 Profit Target
10%
10%
Phase 2 Profit Target
5%
None (single-phase)✓ Single-phase evaluation
Max Daily Loss
5%✓ More daily loss room
4%
Max Total Loss
10%✓ More drawdown room
6%
Min Trading Days
4 days✓ More flexible
5 days
Time Limit (Phase 1)
30 days
No limit✓ No time limit
Payout Split
80% (up to 90%)
N/A
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
DNA Funded
Pros
+Multiple challenge types including 1-phase, 2-phase, rapid, and instant funding options
+Accounts available up to $200,000 with competitive pricing
+Swap-free accounts with no overnight interest charges
+Regular tournaments with substantial prize pools up to $750K
+26% discount promotion and other active promotional offers
Cons
−Limited to TradeLocker platform only (no MT4/MT5 support)
−Restrictive trading policies prohibiting many common strategies like hedging and grid trading
−Lower leverage compared to many competitors (1:30 for forex vs 1:100+ elsewhere)
−Relatively new firm established in 2023 with shorter track record
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
FTMO is the clear choice for traders who need breathing room and proven reliability. With 10% total drawdown versus DNA Funded's tight 6%, plus 5% daily loss limits compared to 4%, FTMO gives aggressive traders and scalpers the risk parameters they need to survive volatile markets. The $79 cost advantage on $100K challenges and FTMO's eight-year track record with 40,000+ Trustpilot reviews make it the safer bet for serious capital.
DNA Funded works for conservative traders who value simplicity over flexibility. Their single-phase evaluation eliminates the stress of managing a second phase, but the 6% total drawdown is punishingly tight for most profitable strategies. Unless you trade extremely conservatively and prioritize getting funded quickly over having workable risk limits, FTMO's superior risk parameters and established reputation make it the better choice for the vast majority of traders.
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.