Topstep
Challenges Review 2026 | BrokerSift
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Topstep
A premium prop firm review page built around challenge structure, rules, payouts, and scaling potential.
8.6
Overall rating • Trust 83
Up to 100%
Profit Split
TopstepX / TradingView / NinjaTrader / Tradovate
Supported Platforms
Fast Payouts (Based on Trading Rules & Account Type)
Profit Withdrawal
Up to $150K+
Maximum Funding
Prop Trading Firm
Company Type
Futures / Indices / Commodities / Micro Contracts
Supported Markets
Daily Loss Limit & Maximum Drawdown Rules
Account Protection Rules
OVERVIEW
Prop Firm Intelligence Panel
8.5
Strong futures prop firm with solid reputation, but strict rules and limited to evaluation-based trading.
Elevated
Elevated risk due to strict drawdown rules, evaluation structure, and trading restrictions.
Required
Identity verification is required before funded accounts and withdrawals.
available in most countries
Topstep is available in many countries where futures trading is permitted, including the US, UK, Germany, Canada, Australia, EU countries, and selected regions across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Topstep Introduction
Topstep is a leading US-based futures prop trading firm that allows traders to prove their skills through a structured evaluation process and gain access to funded trading accounts. Founded in 2012, Topstep focuses exclusively on futures markets, offering traders a professional environment to trade CME-listed contracts with disciplined risk management rules.
Unlike traditional brokers, Topstep provides simulated trading accounts during the evaluation phase, where traders must meet profit targets while respecting strict drawdown limits. Successful traders can qualify for funded accounts and earn profit splits without risking their own capital.
Topstep is widely known for its transparent trading rules, strong risk management framework, and educational support, making it one of the most reputable futures prop firms for disciplined traders seeking long-term consistency.
Tradable symbols
Topstep focuses on futures trading and provides access to major futures markets, including indices, commodities, metals, energy, and currency futures. Traders can trade instruments such as S&P 500, Nasdaq, Gold, Crude Oil, and other CME-listed futures products through funded trading accounts.
Evaluation Program
Topstep offers funded trading programs that allow traders to access simulated futures trading capital after completing the evaluation process. The programs are designed for futures traders with clear rules, performance targets, and account growth opportunities.
Available
Topstep provides evaluation-based trading programs with different account sizes and risk parameters. Traders must complete the Trading Combine before receiving access to a funded account.
Up to 100%
Topstep allows traders to keep a high percentage of their profits after reaching funded status, based on the company’s payout rules.
TopstepX / NinjaTrader / TradingView / Tradovate
Topstep supports professional futures trading platforms with advanced charting tools, market analysis features, and desktop/mobile accessibility.
COSTS
FEES
0%
no traditional maker/taker model; futures commissions apply per contract
$0.25 - $0.50
$0.50 per side for minis / ~$0.25 per side for micros + exchange & regulatory fees
$49–$149
$49–$149/month Trading Combine subscription + possible $149 activation fee depending on account path
Subscription-based
Topstep uses a subscription-based prop trading model where traders pay a monthly evaluation fee plus futures commissions and exchange fees per contract traded.
Withdrawal notes
Payouts available only after passing evaluation and entering funded account; profit split typically 90/10; minimum payout rules apply; processing time usually a few business days; KYC required before withdrawals
Security & Product QualityTopstep uses KYC verification, encrypted identity checks via Veriff, and strict compliance controls to secure trader accounts and payouts.
Countries & RestrictionsTopstep does not allow participation from several restricted jurisdictions including Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, Kosovo, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Morocco, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Turkey, Ukraine, Venezuela, Yemen, and sanctioned regions such as Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia.
Editor Verdict & AlternativesVerdict Topstep is one of the most established futures prop firms, offering a structured evaluation model, strong educational support, and reliable payouts, making it best suited for disciplined futures traders focused on consistency and risk management.
Registration guide
To register, follow the steps below.
Create your account
Register with your email and personal details on The5ers platform.
Choose a funding program
Select the preferred challenge or instant funding model.
Complete payment & KYC
Pay the evaluation fee and verify your identity if required.
Start trading
Begin the evaluation phase and work toward receiving a funded account.
Topstep Review
Topstep is one of the most recognized futures prop trading firms in the world, offering traders the opportunity to access funded accounts without risking large amounts of personal capital. Founded in 2012, Topstep focuses exclusively on futures trading and provides a structured evaluation system called the Trading Combine. Traders who successfully pass the evaluation can receive funded accounts and earn a percentage of generated profits.
Unlike traditional forex or CFD brokers, Topstep operates as a proprietary trading firm. This means traders are evaluated in a simulated trading environment before receiving access to funded capital. The company is especially popular among futures traders looking for disciplined risk management, transparent rules, and professional trading infrastructure.
What Is Topstep?
Topstep is a US-based futures prop firm designed to help traders demonstrate consistency and risk management skills before accessing funded trading accounts. The platform focuses on CME futures markets, including equity index futures, commodities, treasury futures, and energy contracts.
The prop firm uses a subscription-based evaluation process known as the Trading Combine. During this stage, traders must reach specific profit targets while following drawdown and risk management rules. Once successful, traders move to funded account stages and become eligible for payouts.
How Topstep Works
Topstep’s funding process is different from standard retail brokers. Instead of depositing capital into a live trading account, traders pay a monthly subscription fee to participate in the evaluation process.
Trading Combine Evaluation
The Trading Combine is the first stage where traders prove their consistency. The system measures:
Profitability
Risk management
Daily loss limits
Maximum drawdown
Consistency across trading sessions
Passing the Trading Combine allows traders to move toward funded account access.
Express Funded Account
After completing the evaluation, traders receive access to an Express Funded Account where they continue trading under Topstep rules. Traders can begin receiving payouts while building track records and scaling accounts.
Markets Available on Topstep
Topstep specializes in futures trading only. Unlike CFD brokers or multi-asset trading platforms, it does not offer spot forex or stock investing.
Supported Futures Markets
Equity Index Futures
Micro Futures Contracts
Commodity Futures
Energy Futures
Treasury Futures
Metal Futures
This futures-only focus makes Topstep particularly attractive to professional day traders and scalpers.
Topstep Trading Platforms
Topstep provides access to several futures trading platforms, including its own modern platform called TopstepX.
TopstepX Platform
TopstepX is a web-based futures trading platform designed for fast execution and smooth performance. It includes:
Advanced charting tools
Trade copier support
Integrated risk management
Real-time data feeds
Performance analytics
Third-Party Platform Support
Topstep also supports integrations with well-known futures trading platforms such as:
NinjaTrader
Quantower
TradingView integrations
Tradovate
Topstep Fees and Pricing
Topstep does not use traditional broker deposit systems. Instead, traders pay monthly evaluation fees depending on account size.
Evaluation Pricing
$49/month for smaller account tiers
$99/month for medium accounts
$149/month for larger account sizes
Additional activation fees may apply after passing the evaluation process.
Trading Costs
Traders also pay futures commissions and exchange fees per contract traded. Costs vary depending on platform and futures product type.
Risk Management Rules
Risk management is one of the most important parts of the Topstep ecosystem. The prop firm emphasizes discipline and consistency over aggressive trading.
Main Trading Rules
Daily loss limits
Maximum trailing drawdown
Position size restrictions
Consistency requirements
No prohibited trading behavior
Violating these rules can result in account resets or disqualification.
Topstep Payout System
One of Topstep’s strongest features is its transparent payout structure. Traders who qualify for funded stages can withdraw a portion of generated profits.
Profit Split
Topstep offers competitive payout structures with traders keeping up to 90% of profits depending on account progression and program structure.
Payout Requirements
KYC verification required
Minimum trading activity thresholds
Compliance with all risk rules
Payout request review process
Who Is Topstep Best For?
Topstep is best suited for:
Futures traders
Day traders
Scalpers
Disciplined traders
Traders seeking funded capital
It may not be ideal for beginners with no futures experience or traders looking for passive investing options like staking or copy trading.
Topstep Pros and Cons
Advantages
Strong reputation in futures prop trading
Transparent evaluation rules
Professional futures platforms
Educational content and coaching
High payout potential
Disadvantages
Strict risk management rules
Monthly subscription fees
No forex or crypto spot trading
Limited availability in restricted regions
Is Topstep Legit?
Yes, Topstep is considered one of the most established and legitimate futures prop trading firms. The company has operated since 2012 and has built a strong reputation among futures traders worldwide. It follows KYC and compliance procedures and partners with regulated futures infrastructure providers.
Final Verdict on Topstep
Topstep remains one of the best-known futures prop firms for traders seeking structured funding opportunities and professional trading environments. Its focus on risk management, futures specialization, and transparent evaluation rules makes it attractive for serious traders who value discipline and consistency.
For futures traders looking to scale without risking large personal capital, Topstep is a strong choice in the prop trading industry.
Frequently asked questions
Compare the best brokers and find your edge in the markets today.
Topstep is a futures proprietary trading firm that provides traders with access to funded trading accounts after completing its evaluation program. Traders can trade futures markets using company capital and earn a share of their profits.
Yes, Topstep is one of the well-known futures prop trading firms, operating since 2012 and providing funded trading programs for futures traders worldwide.
Topstep requires traders to pay a monthly subscription fee for the Trading Combine evaluation. The cost depends on the selected account size and program option.
No, Topstep focuses on futures trading only. It does not offer traditional forex, spot crypto, or CFD trading. Traders can access futures markets such as indices, commodities, and currencies.
Topstep is available in many countries worldwide, but some regions may be restricted due to regulatory requirements. Availability depends on local laws and eligibility rules.