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Updated 2026-03-08
FTMO vs The Funded Trader: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Choosing between FTMO and The Funded Trader comes down to whether you prioritize proven reliability or evaluation flexibility. FTMO offers the stability of an 8-year track record and stellar reputation, while The Funded Trader attracts traders with its single-phase evaluation and no daily loss limits. This comparison examines their challenge structures, trading rules, and real-world performance to help you decide which firm aligns with your trading style and risk tolerance.
F
FTMO
Est. 2015 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.8
41,683 reviews
VS
3 wins
3 ties
8 wins
TF
The Funded Trader
Est. 2021 · Fort Lauderdale, USA
3
22,000 reviews
Feature
FTMO
The Funded Trader
Challenge Price ($100K)
$540
$489✓ Lower entry cost
Phase 1 Profit Target
10%
8%✓ 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%
N/A
Min Trading Days
4 days
0 days✓ More flexible
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
The Funded Trader
Pros
+Multiple challenge types including one-step and three-step evaluations
+High maximum funding allocation up to $2.5M across different challenges
+VIP program offering up to 95% payout split
+News trading allowed on most challenges
+Fast payout eligibility in as little as 7 days on some challenges
Cons
−Simulated trading environment only, not real money trading
−Limited account size options shown in comparison table
−Proprietary technology monitoring may restrict some trading styles
−Maximum concurrent funded account limit of $600K
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
The Funded Trader suits aggressive traders and scalpers who need maximum flexibility. With no daily loss limits, single-phase evaluation, and unrestricted news trading, it removes the typical constraints that trip up active traders. The lower $489 entry cost and 8% profit target make it easier to access funded capital quickly.
FTMO is the better choice for most traders seeking long-term success. Despite the higher $540 challenge cost and stricter 10% profit target, FTMO's 4.8/5 Trustpilot rating from 40,000 reviews versus The Funded Trader's 3/5 rating tells the real story. FTMO's 8-year track record and consistent payout history outweigh the evaluation advantages offered by its newer competitor. Unless you specifically need to scalp or trade news heavily, FTMO's proven reliability makes it the safer bet for building a sustainable funded trading career.
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.