Expert Comparison
Apex Trader Funding vs 
Topstep: Full Comparison
Apex Trader Funding and Topstep are both CME futures prop firms, which makes this a closer fight than most comparisons on this site. The difference comes down to fee structure, drawdown mechanics, and how each firm handles payouts, not the market you trade.
Side-by-Side
| Category | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep |
|---|---|---|
| Fee model | One-time fee | Monthly subscription ($49–199) |
| Drawdown type | EOD or Intraday (trader’s choice) | Trailing (Combine) |
| Profit split | Up to 100% (simulated funded) | 90%, flat from $1 |
| Payout cycle | On request, 5-day minimum gap | Bi-weekly |
| Evaluation model | Single-phase evaluation (Apex 4.0) | Trading Combine, one phase |
Key Differences
- Drawdown flexibility: Apex lets you choose between End-of-Day and Intraday trailing drawdown at signup, which suits traders who want to pick the mechanic that fits their style. Topstep runs one trailing drawdown model across the Combine, with no choice to make.
- Payout structure: Apex pays on request once you qualify, with a 5-day minimum gap between requests, flexible but not fixed. Topstep pays on a predictable bi-weekly cycle once funded.
- Cost model: Apex is a one-time fee per evaluation account; Topstep is a recurring monthly subscription until you pass. Apex tends to be cheaper if your evaluation drags on, Topstep can be cheaper if you pass fast.
- Simulated profit split: Apex advertises up to 100% profit split on simulated funded accounts, well above Topstep's flat 90%.
The Nest Verdict
Both firms cover the same futures market, so this comes down to how you want to pay and get paid. If you want a one-time fee, flexible drawdown choice, and the highest headline profit split, Apex 4.0 is the stronger pick. If you want a predictable monthly cost and a fixed bi-weekly payout schedule, Topstep is the safer default.