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Updated 2026-03-08
Topstep vs Quant Tekel: Which Prop Firm Is Better?
Traders choosing between Topstep and Quant Tekel face a decision between an established single-phase evaluation model versus a newer two-phase challenge structure. The most significant differences lie in Topstep's lack of daily loss limits and single-phase approach, compared to Quant Tekel's higher 80% starting profit split but stricter 4% daily loss rules. Both firms maintain identical 4.4/5 Trustpilot ratings, though they serve different trading styles and risk management preferences. This comparison examines their evaluation processes, payout structures, and trading restrictions to determine which firm better suits specific trader profiles.
T
Topstep
Est. 2012 · Chicago, USA
4.4
14,000 reviews
VS
3 wins
5 ties
5 wins
QT
Quant Tekel
Est. 2023 · Cape Town, South Africa
4.4
12,000 reviews
Feature
Topstep
Quant Tekel
Challenge Price ($100K)
N/A
$340
Phase 1 Profit Target
N/A
8%
Phase 2 Profit Target
None (single-phase)✓ Single-phase evaluation
5%
Max Daily Loss
No limit✓ No daily loss limit
4%
Max Total Loss
N/A
10%
Min Trading Days
5 days
4 days✓ More flexible
Time Limit (Phase 1)
No limit
No limit
Payout Split
50% (up to 90%)
80% (up to 90%)✓ Higher starting split
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
Quant Tekel
Pros
+Competitively priced QT Prime challenge from $30 for a $5K account
+Multiple evaluation types — 2-step, instant, and aggressive options to suit different traders
+80% profit split from day one, up to 90% as you scale
+Bi-weekly payouts on QT Prime funded accounts
+Multiple platform options including MT5, cTrader, TradeLocker, and FIX API
Cons
−News trading restricted on funded accounts — 5-minute buffer required on QT Prime, banned on QT Power and QT Ultra
−Copy trading and multi-account strategies not allowed
−Consistency rules apply across all account types with varying thresholds
−Restricted countries include Russia, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, and Cyprus
Our Verdict
Which Should You Choose?
Topstep suits aggressive traders and scalpers who need unlimited daily loss flexibility and prefer single-phase evaluations. The absence of daily loss limits makes it ideal for traders who occasionally take large drawdowns but maintain overall profitability, while daily payouts benefit those who rely on trading income for immediate cash flow.
Quant Tekel better serves conservative traders and those prioritizing immediate profit retention through its 80% starting split versus Topstep's 50%. The 4% daily loss limit appeals to risk-averse traders who prefer structured boundaries, though it restricts scalping strategies. For most funded traders, Quant Tekel's higher initial profit split provides better immediate returns despite the daily restrictions.
Bottom line: Choose Topstep if you're an experienced scalper who needs daily loss flexibility and immediate payouts. Choose Quant Tekel if you prioritize keeping 80% of profits from day one and trade within conservative daily risk parameters. Quant Tekel offers better immediate financial terms for disciplined traders.
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 Quant Tekel if:
→Competitively priced QT Prime challenge from $30 for a $5K account
→Multiple evaluation types — 2-step, instant, and aggressive options to suit different traders
→80% profit split from day one, up to 90% as you scale
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.