Proprietary trading firms, or prop firms, have become the bridge between talent and trading capital. They allow traders to access firm-funded accounts after passing an evaluation — eliminating the need to risk personal savings. Yet, every prop firm operates differently. Some specialize in Futures, others in Forex or CFDs, and each has unique rules, payout systems, and funding models.
This guide breaks down the 5 best prop trading firms widely recognized in 2025 for their credibility, trader support, and favorable terms.
Top 5 Prop Trading Firms at a Glance
| Rank | Prop Firm | Best For | Key Features | Profit Split |
| 1 | Apex Trader Funding | Futures Traders | Low-cost evaluations, no daily drawdown, fast payouts | Up to 90% |
| 2 | Topstep | Education & Coaching | Trader Combine, structured growth, community support | Up to 80% |
| 3 | FundedNext | Forex & CFD Trading | Allows news trading, no time limits, high split | Up to 95% |
| 4 | The 5ers | Long-Term Growth | Multiple funding stages, overnight trading | Up to 90% |
| 5 | OANDA Prop Trader | Regulated Global Broker | Backed by OANDA, strong reputation, transparent terms | Up to 90% |
1. Apex Trader Funding — Best for Futures Traders
Apex Trader Funding has quickly become one of the most popular prop firms for Futures traders worldwide. It is praised for its simplicity, flexibility, and high payout structure, allowing traders to keep up to 90% of their profits.
Why Traders Choose Apex:
- No daily drawdown: Apex eliminates daily loss limits, giving traders more flexibility to recover from intraday fluctuations. Instead, Apex uses a trailing threshold drawdown system, which adjusts dynamically based on account balance to encourage consistent, disciplined performance.
- Affordable evaluation programs starting at competitive price points.
- Fast payouts: Traders can request withdrawals every eight trading days, offering faster access to profits compared to monthly payout cycles.
- Advanced platform compatibility: Supports Rithmic, Tradovate, and WealthCharts, providing ultra-low latency execution and reliable trade performance.
Apex is especially favored by traders using scalping and short-term futures strategies, offering an edge through its efficient rules and community-driven ecosystem.
2. Topstep — Best for Education and Trader Development
Topstep remains the most established name in the Futures prop trading industry, combining experience, education, and accountability. It’s known for its Trading Combine, a two-step evaluation that focuses not only on profitability but also on discipline and consistency.
Highlights:
- Strong emphasis on trader psychology and structured evaluation.
- Offers professional coaching and performance feedback.
- Provides access to NinjaTrader and Tradovate platforms.
- Transparent and reliable payout system with weekly withdrawals.
Topstep is ideal for traders who appreciate a mentorship-based environment rather than pure independence. Its track record of longevity in the industry makes it a trusted name among Futures professionals — including many who also explore programs like Apex Trader Funding for more flexible options.
3. FundedNext—Best for Forex and CFD Traders
FundedNext dominates the Forex and CFD trading space by combining flexibility with performance rewards. It is one of the few firms that offers profit sharing even during the challenge phase, making it a favorite for active retail traders.
What Makes FundedNext Stand Out:
- No time limits on certain account types.
- Performance bonuses even before funding.
- Supports both manual and algorithmic strategies.
- Allows news trading, unlike many competitors.
With a profit split of up to 95%, FundedNext appeals to traders looking for global market exposure with minimal restrictions.
4. The5ers — Best for Long-Term Growth
The5ers is designed for traders who want to grow sustainably rather than chase fast profits. It’s one of the few firms offering multi-stage funding, where consistent performance can multiply your account size over time.
Key Features:
- Supports overnight and weekend trading on select accounts.
- Encourages low-risk, consistent strategies such as swing or position trading.
- Offers immediate funding options for experienced traders.
- Profit share up to 90% and clear upgrade milestones.
The5ers’ growth-centered structure attracts traders who view prop trading as a career path rather than a short-term opportunity.
5. OANDA Prop Trader — Best Regulated Option
OANDA Prop Trader (formerly OANDA’s proprietary trading initiative) offers a unique blend of trust, regulation, and opportunity.
As a well-established global broker, OANDA brings transparency and security to the prop model.
Why Traders Choose OANDA:
- Fully regulated broker-backed program, ensuring credibility.
- Profit split up to 90% with straightforward evaluation rules.
- Ideal for traders seeking compliance and trustworthiness.
- Seamless integration with OANDA’s trading technology and analytics.
OANDA’s model appeals to traders who prefer institutional-grade reliability and are cautious about newer, less-regulated firms.
Key Factors When Choosing a Prop Firm
Before committing to any proprietary trading firm, it’s essential to understand how its structure aligns with your trading goals. Start by identifying your preferred asset class, whether that’s Forex, Futures, Stocks, or Crypto, as most firms specialize in one or two. Equally important are the profit target and drawdown rules, these determine how much flexibility you have while managing risk.
Always review fees and refund policies carefully to see if your evaluation fee can be reimbursed upon passing or during your first payout. Consider payout frequency as well, since faster withdrawals can help active traders maintain steady cash flow. Finally, verify that the firm supports your trading style, especially if you rely on specific techniques such as scalping, news trading, or algorithmic strategies.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best prop trading firm ultimately depends on your trading focus and personal preferences. Futures traders may find Apex Trader Funding particularly appealing for its flexibility, trailing threshold system, and high payout potential. Those seeking more structure and mentorship often prefer Topstep, known for its coaching-based approach.
Meanwhile, FundedNext stands out among Forex traders for its generous profit splits and allowance of diverse trading conditions, including news trading. Each of these firms provides a unique path to success, yet all share one mission—to empower skilled traders with access to capital and a platform to prove their consistency.
