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Updated 2026-03-08
Topstep vs Crypto Fund Trader: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Topstep and Crypto Fund Trader face a decision between an established futures-focused firm and a newer crypto-centric operation with aggressive terms. The most critical difference lies in daily loss limits — Topstep imposes no daily loss restriction while Crypto Fund Trader caps daily drawdown at 4%. Crypto Fund Trader offers an 80% starting profit split compared to Topstep's 50%, but lacks the proven track record of daily payouts that Topstep provides. This comparison examines how each firm's rules, costs, and reliability align with different trading styles and experience levels.
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
VS
2 wins
5 ties
5 wins
CF
Crypto Fund Trader
Est. 2023 · N/A
4.2
800 reviews
Feature
Topstep
Crypto Fund Trader
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$660
Phase 1 Profit Target
N/A
10%
Max Daily Loss
No limit✓ No daily loss limit
4%
Max Total Loss
N/A
6%
Min Trading Days
5 days
0 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
50% (up to 90%)
80% (up to 90%)✓ Higher starting split
Payout Frequency
daily✓ Faster payouts
N/A
Topstep
Pros
+Performance-based capital release structure with 20% initial access scaling to full balance
+Daily payout eligibility after 30 benchmark trading days with up to 90% profit split
+Performance bonus program offering over $250,000 in cash bonuses for consistent traders
+Dynamic risk expansion that adjusts daily loss limits as account balance grows
+Live Funded Account structure designed to help transition from simulated to live trading
Cons
−Must maintain account balance above $0 at all times or forfeit account
−Initial payout split limited to 50% until reaching 30 benchmark trading days
−Account automatically closed if inactive for 90 days
−All positions must be closed by 3:10 PM CT daily
−Protective stops required on every open position
Crypto Fund Trader
Pros
+No time limits on evaluation phases - take as long as needed
+News trading allowed with no restrictions during high-volatility events
+Over 715 crypto pairs plus forex, indices, commodities and stocks
+Spreads starting from 0 pips with low fees
+Gamified ranking system with prizes and comprehensive educational resources
Cons
−All trading is on demo capital only - no real capital involved
−Relatively new firm founded in 2023 with less track record
−Challenge fees are non-refundable once trading begins
−Higher daily loss limit (4%) compared to some competitors
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
Crypto Fund Trader suits aggressive crypto traders who can work within tight daily loss limits and value the higher 80% starting profit split. The firm's flexibility with zero minimum trading days and multiple platform options (MT5, Match-Trader, BYBIT) appeals to experienced traders who know their edge and want maximum profit retention from day one.
Topstep better serves futures traders and those prone to larger drawdown days, thanks to its lack of daily loss limits and proven daily payout system. With 12 years in operation and 14,000+ Trustpilot reviews versus Crypto Fund Trader's 1-year track record and 800 reviews, Topstep offers significantly more operational reliability. For traders prioritizing consistent payouts and proven business stability, Topstep's lower starting split (50% vs 80%) is offset by the confidence of actually receiving payments.
Choose Topstep if:
→Performance-based capital release structure with 20% initial access scaling to full balance
→Daily payout eligibility after 30 benchmark trading days with up to 90% profit split
→Performance bonus program offering over $250,000 in cash bonuses for consistent traders
→Dynamic risk expansion that adjusts daily loss limits as account balance grows
Choose Crypto Fund Trader if:
→No time limits on evaluation phases - take as long as needed
→News trading allowed with no restrictions during high-volatility events
→Over 715 crypto pairs plus forex, indices, commodities and stocks
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.