How to Choose a Futures Trading Prop Firm in 2025

Embarking on my futures trading journey with proprietary (prop) firms several years ago was both exciting and challenging. Through extensive research, hands-on experience, and countless hours of testing different firms, I’ve gained valuable insights into what truly sets the best apart. In this blog, I’ll share my lessons learned, and, most importantly, how to choose the best futures prop firms in 2025. Continue reading to see what I recommend for beginners looking to start strong in the world of futures trading.

A few of the most popular firms used by beginners in 2025 are Apex Trader Funding, Topstep, and My Funded Futures. Both firms cater to futures traders but have key differences that may determine which one is best for your trading style. In this blog, we will compare Apex Trader Funding vs Topstep vs My Funded Futures in 2025 based on their funding programs, evaluation processes, fees, payouts, and trader benefits.

1. Best Futures Trading Platforms for Beginners in 2025

Apex Trader Funding

• Uses a one-step evaluation process and 1 day pass, making it quicker to get funded.
• Futures Traders need to reach a profit target while avoiding maximum drawdowns.
• 1 minimum trading day required for some accounts, allowing faster qualification.
• Monthly subscription fees range from $17 to $297, depending on account size.
• Almost always offer discounts of 80-90%.
• Frequent discount promotions reduce the cost significantly.
• Offers unlimited resets for a low cost, making it more budget-friendly.

Topstep

• Requires a two-day evaluation before traders receive funding. Even if you hit you profit goal.
• The first step focuses on achieving profit targets while adhering to risk rules.
• The second step involves maintaining consistency and following firm trading guidelines.
• Takes a more structured approach with a strong emphasis on risk management.
• Monthly subscription fees range from $50 to $375, depending on account size.
• Fees apply for both the evaluation phase and live trading accounts.
• Additional fees for resets if a trader fails the evaluation.
• Hardly ever offer discounts or sales.

My Funded Futures

• Offers a single-step evaluation and 1 day pass for faster funding.
• No minimum trading days, allowing skilled traders to qualify quickly.
• Profit targets are competitive with industry standards.
• Low-cost resets available.
• 100% of the first $25,000 in profits, then a 90/10 split.
• Fast and flexible withdrawal options.
• Weekly and monthly payout options.

Video of me using Apex Funding and Ninja Trader

2. Futures Trading Evaluation Process & Challenge Requirements

Most futures prop firms require traders to pass an evaluation or challenge before getting funded. Consider:

• Evaluation steps: Some firms have a one-step process, while others require two steps.
• Profit targets: Compare the percentage profit required to pass the evaluation.
• Trading days required: Some firms allow rapid qualification, while others require consistency over time.
• Reset costs: If you fail, how much does it cost to restart the evaluation?

3. Futures Trading Capital Allocation & Account Sizes 

Different prop firms offer varying account sizes. When choosing, ask:

• What is the maximum buying power allocated?
• Can you scale up your account size over time?
• Are you allowed to trade multiple accounts?

4. Futures Prop Firm Profit Split & Withdrawal Policies

Understanding how much of your profits you get to keep is crucial. Consider:

• Profit retention: Some firms offer 100% of the first profits up to a certain amount, then switch to a split (e.g., 80/20, 90/10).
• Payout frequency: Some firms pay daily, while others have weekly or monthly payout schedules.
• Withdrawal conditions: Check for restrictions on how soon and how often you can withdraw earnings.

5. Fees & Subscription Costs for Futures Trading Prop Firms

Each firm has different fee structures, including:

• Monthly evaluation fees: Typically range from $100 to $400 depending on account size.
• Reset fees: If you breach rules, check how much it costs to restart the challenge.
• Data fees: Some firms charge additional fees for real-time market data.

6. Trading Platforms & Execution Speed

Your experience will depend on the technology provided. Compare:

• Supported trading platforms (e.g., NinjaTrader, Tradovate, Rithmic, TradingView, Quantower).
• Execution speed & reliability – Slow execution can impact performance.
• Mobile compatibility – If you prefer trading on the go, ensure mobile support.

7. Risk Management & Trading Rules

Every firm enforces different rules to manage risk. Consider:

• Daily loss limits: How much can you lose per day before your account is closed?
• Maximum drawdowns: Does the firm use a trailing or static drawdown?
• Consistency rules: Some firms require balanced profits across multiple days rather than high-risk trading.

8. Reputation & Feedback on Futures Trading Prop Firms

Before committing to a prop firm, research its reputation by:

• Reading trader reviews on forums and social media.
• Checking payout proofs and testimonials.
• Ensuring transparency in policies and terms.

9. Additional Trader Benefits

Some firms provide added benefits that can enhance your experience:

• Educational resources & mentorship programs.
• Performance tracking & trader analytics tools.
• Discounts or promotions on evaluations.

My Personal Thoughts on Choosing a Futures Trading Prop Firm

As I look ahead to 2025, my futures trading strategy with prop firms is focused on account rotation. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned on this journey is that copy trading and overtrading often led to blown accounts. To overcome this, I’ve adopted a more disciplined approach: purchasing at least five accounts, aiming to make a few hundred dollars in one, then moving on to the next. This strategy has helped me manage risk more effectively, maintain consistency, and ultimately achieve greater success in my trading endeavors.  

Selecting a futures prop firm in 2025 requires balancing multiple factors, including evaluation difficulty, capital allocation, fees, payouts, and platform technology. If you're a beginner, opt for a firm with strong educational support and lenient rules. Experienced traders may prioritize profit splits, fast payouts, and flexible trading conditions.

Do your research, compare firms, and choose the one that aligns with your trading goals. Happy trading!

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^{AFFILIATE AND NETWORK MARKETING DISCLOSURE: This video and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. I won't put anything here that I haven't verified and/or personally used myself.}