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Updated 2026-03-08
FTMO vs Sway Funded: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between FTMO and Sway Funded face a fundamental decision between proven reliability and flexible evaluation conditions. FTMO offers the security of an established firm with a 4.8/5 Trustpilot rating from 40,000 reviews, while Sway Funded provides more trader-friendly rules including no daily loss limits and single-phase evaluations. This comparison examines their evaluation processes, trading restrictions, payout structures, and overall suitability for different trading styles. Both firms cater to serious prop traders but with notably different approaches to risk management and trader development.
F
FTMO
Est. 2015 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.8
41,683 reviews
VS
6 wins
4 ties
4 wins
SF
Sway Funded
Est. 2024 · N/A
4
200 reviews
Feature
FTMO
Sway Funded
Challenge Price ($100K)
$540
N/A
Phase 1 Profit Target
10%
N/A
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%
N/A
Min Trading Days
4 days
None✓ No minimum
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
Sway Funded
Pros
+Growing firm with aggressive expansion through acquisitions of established prop firms
+Significant trader base of over 70,000 traders achieved within first year
+Track record of large payouts including $165,000 single reward to trader
+Experience-focused approach differentiating from traditional prop trading firms
Cons
−Very new firm founded in 2024 with limited operational track record
−Lack of detailed trading rules and account information publicly available
−Rapid growth through acquisitions may create integration challenges
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
FTMO suits disciplined traders who value reliability and can work within structured constraints. With 9 years in operation and 40,000 Trustpilot reviews, FTMO offers proven stability, bi-weekly payouts, and comprehensive platform support. The firm works best for swing traders and those comfortable with daily loss limits and time constraints.
Sway Funded appeals to traders who need maximum flexibility in their evaluation process. The single-phase evaluation with no daily loss limits, minimum trading days, or time restrictions makes it ideal for scalpers, news traders, and those who've struggled with FTMO's stricter parameters. However, the firm's 2023 founding date and limited track record (200 reviews) require accepting higher counterparty risk.
For most traders, FTMO remains the safer choice due to its established reputation and reliable payout history. Choose Sway Funded only if FTMO's restrictions have consistently prevented your success and you're comfortable with a newer firm's inherent risks.
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.