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Updated 2026-03-08
Topstep vs E8 Markets: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Topstep and E8 Markets face a decision between an established futures specialist and a newer multi-asset challenger with more generous terms. The most significant differences lie in profit splits—E8 Markets starts at 80% versus Topstep's 50%—and trading flexibility, with E8 Markets allowing news trading and requiring just 1 minimum trading day compared to Topstep's 5. This comparison examines their challenge structures, payout policies, platform options, and trading rules to help you determine which firm better matches your trading style and experience level.
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
VS
1 wins
4 ties
6 wins
EM
E8 Markets
Est. 2021 · Prague, Czech Republic
4.5
3,200 reviews
Feature
Topstep
E8 Markets
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$234
Phase 1 Profit Target
N/A
6%
Max Total Loss
N/A
4%
Min Trading Days
5 days
1 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
50% (up to 90%)
80% (up to 100%)✓ Higher profit split
Payout Frequency
daily✓ Faster payouts
N/A
Platforms
N/A
MT5✓ More platform options
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
E8 Markets
Pros
+Single-phase challenge — no Phase 2, pass with just 6% profit target
+Pass in as little as 1 day with no minimum trading day requirement
+Up to 100% profit split available on E8 ONE accounts
+Copy trading across your own accounts is fully permitted
+E8 ONE offers selectable drawdown (4–14%) and payout (80–100%) to match your style
Cons
−No separate daily loss limit — relies solely on EOD total drawdown (4% on Signature)
−Payouts are discretionary and subject to E8's acceptance of performance data
−Cross-account hedging and signal services are prohibited
−E8 ONE funded accounts have a 5-minute news restriction around high-impact events
−60-day inactivity rule — account closed if no trade placed within 60 days
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
E8 Markets suits aggressive traders and those seeking maximum profit potential, offering an 80-100% profit split compared to Topstep's 50-90% range, plus greater trading freedom with news trading allowed and just 1 required trading day. The firm's MT5 platform access and lower restrictions make it ideal for scalpers, news traders, and experienced traders who want fewer limitations on their strategies.
Topstep better serves conservative traders prioritizing reliability and fast access to profits, with its daily payout frequency giving traders quicker access to earnings once funded. The firm's 12-year track record and 14,000 Trustpilot reviews provide more established credibility, making it suitable for beginners who value proven stability over maximum profit splits.
For most active traders, E8 Markets offers the better overall package with its 80% starting profit split, minimal trading requirements, and fewer restrictions, despite Topstep's faster payouts and longer operating history.
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 E8 Markets if:
→Single-phase challenge — no Phase 2, pass with just 6% profit target
→Pass in as little as 1 day with no minimum trading day requirement
→Up to 100% profit split available on E8 ONE accounts
→Copy trading across your own accounts is fully permitted
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.