In the world of proprietary trading, FTMO has become one of the most popular choices for traders seeking to prove their skills and trade with larger capital. However, while FTMO is well-known, it’s not the only option for aspiring and professional traders. For those looking for FTMO alternatives, there are several other reputable proprietary trading firms that offer competitive conditions, flexible trading rules, and high profit potential. In this article, we’ll explore the best FTMO alternatives available in the market, highlighting their unique offerings and how they can suit different trading styles.
Why Look for FTMO Alternatives?
There are many reasons why a trader might seek FTMO alternatives. While FTMO provides a highly regarded challenge program with excellent funding opportunities, some traders may feel that the rules or conditions don’t fully align with their trading strategies or risk tolerance. Here are a few reasons why traders might consider other options:
- Different funding criteria: FTMO has specific risk management rules that might not suit every trader’s style.
- Variety in account sizes: Some traders may need higher or more flexible account sizes than FTMO offers.
- Lower fees or better profit splits: Some alternatives may offer better profit-sharing arrangements or lower fees for participation.
By exploring other proprietary trading firms, traders can find a platform that aligns with their specific needs and trading preferences.
Top FTMO Alternatives: A Breakdown of the Best Proprietary Trading Firms
Here are some of the best FTMO alternatives that offer high-quality trading opportunities and competitive terms for traders looking to maximize their profits.
1. The Funded Trader Program
The Funded Trader Program offers a similar experience to FTMO, providing traders the opportunity to manage significant capital once they pass their evaluation phase. What sets this program apart is its low entry fees and higher profit splits compared to many other firms.
Key Features:
- Evaluation Process: The program is divided into two stages: a challenge phase and a verification phase, similar to FTMO.
- Account Sizes: Offers various account sizes, ranging from $10,000 to $200,000, providing flexibility for different types of traders.
- Profit Split: Traders can enjoy up to 90% profit split, which is higher than FTMO’s offerings.
- Low Fees: The entry fee is affordable, and there are regular discounts and promotions that make the program more accessible.
Why Traders Choose The Funded Trader Program:
Traders who are looking for a program with low fees and higher profit splits will find this a solid choice. Additionally, the support and educational resources provided by the platform make it an attractive option for traders at all levels.
2. TopstepTrader
TopstepTrader is one of the leading FTMO alternatives in the prop trading space. Known for its flexible trading conditions, TopstepTrader has built a reputation for offering a smooth evaluation process and high-quality trader support.
Key Features:
- No Daily Drawdown Limit: One of the standout features of TopstepTrader is that they don’t impose a daily drawdown limit, giving traders more flexibility in managing their trades.
- Evaluation Process: Traders need to pass a two-phase evaluation with real-time tracking of their progress.
- Account Sizes: Offers account sizes ranging from $50,000 to $150,000.
- Profit Split: Traders earn up to 80% profit split upon becoming funded.
- Risk Management: TopstepTrader allows traders to use wide range of trading strategies, without limiting their methods based on strict risk parameters.
Why Traders Choose TopstepTrader:
The absence of a daily drawdown rule makes it ideal for traders who prefer less stringent risk management guidelines. TopstepTrader is also an excellent choice for those who value flexibility in their trading style.
3. The Trading Pit
The Trading Pit is another strong FTMO alternative, offering a similar trading environment but with some unique features that make it stand out. They provide traders with the opportunity to participate in both forex and futures markets, offering a wide range of instruments and account sizes.
Key Features:
- Account Sizes: The Trading Pit offers accounts ranging from $25,000 to $200,000, with the option to scale up based on performance.
- Profit Split: Traders can receive up to 80% profit split.
- Evaluation Process: Their evaluation process is simple and transparent, with clear milestones and goals to achieve funding.
- No Time Limits: Unlike FTMO, The Trading Pit allows traders to take as long as they need to pass their evaluation, eliminating the time pressure.
Why Traders Choose The Trading Pit:
With its flexibility, particularly the absence of a time limit for the evaluation process, The Trading Pit is a solid choice for traders who prefer to work at their own pace and those who are looking for a variety of asset classes.
4. Lux Trading Firm
Lux Trading Firm is an innovative prop trading firm that provides traders with access to high-value capital and offers a range of FTMO alternatives in terms of trading conditions. They focus on offering a high-quality experience for traders of all experience levels.
Key Features:
- Account Sizes: Offers a wide variety of account sizes ranging from $50,000 to $400,000.
- Profit Split: Up to 90% profit split for funded traders.
- Evaluation Process: Traders must complete a two-step evaluation process, which includes a performance target for each phase.
- No Time Pressure: Like The Trading Pit, Lux Trading Firm allows traders to complete their evaluation without being rushed.
Why Traders Choose Lux Trading Firm:
For traders who want to scale their trading quickly, Lux Trading Firm is a fantastic option due to its large account sizes and the potential for a high profit split. The absence of time limits also ensures that traders can take their time to perfect their strategies.
5. Earn2Trade
Earn2Trade is another reputable option for those seeking FTMO alternatives. Their program is known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive educational resources, making it a good choice for novice traders who want to advance their skills.
Key Features:
- Account Sizes: Starts with a $25,000 funded account and can go up to $200,000.
- Profit Split: Earn2Trade offers a 75% profit split on funded accounts.
- Evaluation Process: The firm uses a single-phase evaluation with a specific profit target to qualify for funding.
- Educational Resources: Offers excellent educational tools and resources to help traders succeed.
Why Traders Choose Earn2Trade:
The firm’s emphasis on education and its simple evaluation process makes it a great choice for beginner traders. Earn2Trade is also suitable for traders who prefer to focus on futures trading.
How to Choose the Right FTMO Alternative for You
When looking for FTMO alternatives, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you pick the best fit for your trading goals. Here are some of the most important criteria to evaluate:
1. Account Size and Scaling Opportunities
Make sure the firm offers account sizes that match your trading strategy and goals. Some traders prefer smaller accounts to reduce risk, while others may want larger accounts to take full advantage of their skills.
2. Profit Split
Profit splits vary from one firm to another. While FTMO offers up to 70%, some alternatives offer higher profit splits, such as 80% or even 90%. It’s crucial to understand how much of your profits you will keep.
3. Evaluation Process
The evaluation phase is critical. Check the requirements, performance targets, and time limits. Some firms provide more flexibility, while others may impose stricter deadlines.
4. Risk Management Rules
Each firm has different risk management rules. Some may be more lenient in terms of drawdown limits, while others enforce strict daily or overall drawdown limits. Choose a firm that aligns with your risk tolerance and trading style.
5. Fees and Costs
The fees involved in joining a prop trading firm can vary significantly. Some firms may charge higher fees for evaluation and platform access, while others offer more affordable options. Make sure the fees are transparent and in line with the services provided.
Conclusion: Exploring the Best FTMO Alternatives for Traders
If you’re considering FTMO alternatives, there are many excellent proprietary trading firms that offer competitive terms, higher profit splits, and flexible rules. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, firms like TopstepTrader, The Funded Trader Program, Lux Trading Firm, and Earn2Trade provide a range of options to suit your trading style and goals. By evaluating the factors that matter most to you — such as account size, profit split, risk management rules, and evaluation process — you can find the right trading firm to help you scale your career and reach your financial goals.
For more insights into proprietary trading and how to get started, visit this article.