Review key prop firm rules before starting a challenge. Compare drawdowns, profit targets, and requirements across firms in one place.
October 16, 2026
Proprietary trading firms have become a popular choice among traders who want to trade larger accounts that they wouldn’t normally be able to fund on their own. These firms give traders an opportunity to earn a percentage of the profits they generate. However, each organization has its own terms and requirements that need to be taken into consideration.
While choosing a prop firm, one should not only compare the size of the account, fees, and the profit split but also take into account the rules and requirements of the challenge. For example, large account sizes often come with a high drawdown, while cheap challenges may have restrictions that could take more time and effort to overcome. Consider the terms of the refund policy, minimum days of trading, platforms, and withdrawal options.
Every trader should be able to assess the rules and requirements of a firm to pick the most suitable one. This article will look at the 10 best prop firms in 2027 to help traders find an ideal fit for their trading career and goals.
FTMO is a proprietary trading company that offers aspiring traders an opportunity, within its evaluation programs, to prove their skills in order to receive rewards for their trading skill. Instead of offering traders a trading account with real money, FTMO provides simulated accounts and rewards those who are able to meet the conditions set by the company.
The company offers one-step and two-step FTMO Challenges. The One-Step challenge implies that a trader has to undergo one evaluation stage, whereas the latter suggests that a trader needs to complete two assessment phases to qualify for a funded account. Both of them have specific trading goals. Thus, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with the website’s offers and choose the most suitable one.
Each of the challenges requires meeting a certain profit target, maximum daily loss, and maximum loss. The one-step challenge requires a trader to reach a 10% target, while the two-step FTMO challenge requires a 5% target. As for the daily loss and overall loss, the firm has set a daily loss limit of 5% for all account sizes, and the max loss is 10%. Additionally, the two-step evaluation requires at least 4 days of trading for you to qualify for a payout.
FTMO offers the opportunity to trade on all popular trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and TradingView. This means a trader has the freedom to choose a platform that suits him/her best. At the same time, one should consider other aspects of the service, e.g., challenge costs, strategy limitations, loss calculations, reward withdrawals, and so on.
FTMO might be a good option for those who prefer to trade under clearly defined conditions. As a trader, it is worth noting that before buying a challenge, you should get acquainted with the current rules of the selected program, as meeting the specified profit target alone does not always mean that you’ll be able to withdraw the desired reward.
Audacity Capital offers multiple funding options for traders who wish to get funded and trade under the company’s terms and conditions. Audacity Capital offers three main programs, including Ability Challenge, Ability One, and Funded Trader Program (FTP), which offer different risk management rules.
The Ability Challenge (2 Step) requires a two-step evaluation, where traders should reach the 10% Profit Target in the Challenge Phase and 5% in the Verification Phase. According to the terms, the daily drawdown during the first phase is 7.5%, while the maximum level is 15%.
The Ability one (1 Step) is another option available for traders, which only requires one step to get funded. The program comes with a 10% Profit Target, but it allows less risk compared to the Ability Challenge program. The daily drawdown is 3%, and 6% is the maximum. Many traders might choose this option due to a shorter evaluation period, but they should also remember it comes with tight drawdown rules, which might not be suitable for beginners or less experienced traders.
The FTP (Instant Funding) is an instant funding option that does not require an initial assessment. The FTP’s terms allow for a 5% daily loss, a 10% maximum drawdown, and an 80% profit-sharing level. Traders must also attain the 5 minimum trading days required by the firm to withdraw their profits.
When it comes to trading platforms, Audacity Capital offers MetaTrader 5 (MT5) and DXtrade. Its evaluation programs enable profit-sharing agreements of up to 90%, and traders who meet the conditions may request a withdrawal according to the specified payout scheme.
In general, Audacity Capital appears to be a viable option for traders who are looking for multiple paths to a funded account. The firm offers one-step, two-step, and instant funding accounts. But still, it is recommended to evaluate the conditions, fees, drawdowns, payout eligibility, and trading restrictions for each plan before making a decision, as terms may change anytime.
FundedNext provides several funding programs for traders who want to invest different amounts of money, have different experience levels, and goals. The company offers various types of CFD programs, including Stellar 1-step, Stellar 2-step, Stellar Lite challenges, and Stellar instant accounts for those who do not wish to undergo any evaluations. FundedNext also has separate future funding programs that differ in their characteristics and requirements.
The Stellar 1-step challenge requires traders to reach a profit target of 10% in the first level of the evaluation. On the other hand, the Stellar 2-step account profit target is set at 8% and 5%, which means that traders need to go through two stages. Stellar Lite has two evaluation steps, where the profit targets are 8% and 4%, respectively, while the Stellar Instant has no profit targets since traders are funded instantly upon purchasing the account. The CFD programs also come with daily and maximum drawdown limits, which differ depending on the type of evaluation program you select.
Account sizes and fees also differ depending on the chosen program. For instance, the Stellar 2-Step currently has sizes ranging from $6,000 to $200,000, with fees determined by the selected package and additional services. In the case of Stellar 2-Step, traders who are funded may receive an initial reward share of 80%, with a possibility of increasing the percentage if eligible payout options or scaling requirements are met.
FundedNext may be beneficial for the trader looking to have multiple ways to assess funded accounts. Before buying, the trader has to check the total cost, platforms supported, trading restrictions, and withdrawal eligibility rules under the particular program. The terms may alter and be updated, which is why it is crucial to confirm the current conditions before joining the service.
FundingPips offers several evaluation models, including 1 Step Flex, 2 Step Standard, 2 Step Pro, and 2 Step Flex, plus Zero Instant Master for those who prefer not to go through an evaluation process. All other programs available require meeting certain targets to qualify for particular rewards.
2 Step Standard Evaluation requires a profit target of 8%, and 5% in the second step, a 5% maximum daily loss, and 10% maximum overall loss. 2 Step Pro Evaluation requires a profit target of 6% in each step, a 3% maximum daily loss, and 6% maximum overall loss. 1 Step Flex Evaluation sets a 12% target and a 12% static maximum loss, while Zero Instant Master sets a 5% trailing stop maximum loss.
As you notice, the characteristics of each model differ significantly, and they are all crucial for successful trading. Reward structures are also diverse and depend on specific models. Traders may get paid weekly, biweekly, or on-demand basis, with a share of profits that varies depending on the plan selected. Some prop firms will also check trading days requirements and consistency rules before approving your rewards.
FundingPips offers different types of programs, making it suitable for traders with different experience levels, budgets, and preferences. It is recommended for traders who want to analyze multiple evaluation models before purchasing a challenge.
The5ers is a proprietary trading firm that offers a range of funding programs and account scaling options. The company’s main programs include 1-Step Growth, High Stakes, which requires traders to pass a two-step evaluation, and a Bootcamp program, which runs a multi-stage funding model. The Hyper Growth and ProGrowth programs provide a single evaluation phase. The5ers also provides futures programs that have unique evaluation and risk requirements.
Account scaling works differently depending on the program and the trader’s performance. Account allocation is boosted only after a trader has met all the requirements and conditions required for that specific program. Traders must also understand that reaching the specified targets does not guarantee success. Additional approval from The5ers management may be required.
The Hyper Growth program allows a trader to receive up to $500,000 by meeting scaling milestones. Hyper Growth uses a more aggressive structure in which the account can double after each 10% profit milestone, with potential scaling up to $4 million under its published terms. These figures represent program limits, not guaranteed funding outcomes.
Profit-sharing agreements differ as well. High Stakes start with a hefty 80% trader share, whereas Bootcamp and Hyper Growth offer 50%, but can go up to 100%. Eligible traders can increase their profit-sharing percentage by advancing through their respective profitable trading stages and reaching the top.
The5ers might be a good fit for patient traders who want to grow their accounts gradually rather than risk a significant amount right away. Before signing up, evaluate each program’s entry costs, drawdown limits, minimum profitable-day requirements, allowed strategies, and withdrawal rules. Remember that a higher potential share is not valuable if the prop firm’s rules and profit milestones do not align with your trading style.
Maven Trading is a proprietary trading company registered in Dubai, UAE, under MAVEN LLC. The company offers simulated trading assessments and funding programs for aspiring traders who want to receive rewards on a performance basis without risking their own capital. It is important for these traders to understand the trading rules and specific terms and conditions that apply to each program level.
The company’s assessment options include one-step, two-step, and three-step evaluations and instant-funding opportunities. As of now, the one-step program includes an 8% profit target, a 3% daily loss limit, and a 5% trailing loss limit. On the other hand, the two-step assessment requires an 8% and 5% profit target in the first and second steps, respectively, a 4% daily loss limit, and an 8% maximum loss allowed.
Maven offers MetaTrader 5 and Match-Trader integration, though availability can be different depending on the type of account and location. The standard account type offers 80% of the profits, with withdrawals available every 10 working days. When it comes to instant accounts, it requires additional steps, including reaching a minimum level of profit and a consistency score.
Maven can be a good choice for those who want to consider instant options. Traders who are also looking for different ways to get funded may benefit from joining Maven. However, it is necessary to compare the commission fees, the drawdown policies, news, robot trading restrictions, automated hedging rules, and withdrawal conditions before making a deposit. It is also recommended to check the most recent regulations on Maven’s website, as the requirements can change in 2027.
Alpha Capital is a UK-based prop firm and provides multiple programs that include Alpha One, Alpha Pro, Alpha Swing, and Alpha Direct for those traders who do not want to go through the evaluation process. Each program has its specific target, drawdown, and trading conditions.
Alpha One assessment includes only one step, and the target for this program is either 6%, 10%, or 12%. As for the drawdown, it is trailing, i.e., the stop-loss level moves as the trade approaches the stop. The Alpha Pro has different targets and drawdowns, and this program allows traders to keep the open position over the weekend.
Thus, it is suitable for those who do not want to monitor the market constantly. The Alpha Swing is another option that can be chosen if one wants to avoid the evaluation process. However, it has its set of requirements and conditions, including the profit distribution rules. Alpha Capital’s fee depends on the chosen program and account size. Higher account sizes with fewer evaluation steps come with higher fees and vice versa.
Qualified traders generally receive an 80% performance fee under several evaluation programs, although Alpha Direct advertises 90%. Withdrawal schedules and eligibility requirements vary, including minimum profit thresholds and consistency conditions for certain payout options.
Alpha Capital Group may suit traders comparing different assessment structures. Before purchasing, verify the total fee, platform compatibility, loss calculations, and withdrawal rules for the specific account. These terms should be checked any time you want to purchase an Alpha Capital funding program.
Atlas Funded is another prop trading company based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with its service provider in Saint Lucia. The company offers funding programs for forex, CFDs, and futures with distinctive steps to choose from.
The options for traders who want to be funded on Atlas include a 1-Step and 2-Step standard program and instant funding. The 1-Step standard requires a 10% target profit with a 4% daily stop loss and 7% maximum drawdown. The 2-Step standard has an 8% and 5% target profit with a 5% daily stop loss and 10% maximum static drawdown. The options come with various features depending on the selected drawdown type and additional requirements.
Futures Traders are able to access separate programs via Volumetrica, whereby the size of the account and the limits of potential risk are different compared to those of forex and CFDs. The CFD accounts are supported on such platforms as MetaTrader 5, TradeLocker, and Match-Trader, whereas the futures are traded on Volumetrica.
Atlas Funded may suit those traders who want to get an opportunity to compare the structure of evaluation in different markets. However, on the official web page, the conditions of profit distribution depend on several criteria. Therefore, it is advisable to get familiar with the terms and conditions of the selected program and clarify the details of your choice. Check fees, drawdowns, minimum days, excluded strategies, and payout policies.
Goat Funded Trader (GFT) is a proprietary trading company that operates through entities based in Hong Kong, as listed on the official website. As per the company’s description, it offers trading accounts in simulated modes, which have unique features for traders to choose from. Currently, the company offers up to $400,000, with potential scaling to $2 million in simulated account allocation according to the official website.
The evaluation plans offer either one- or two-step challenges with distinct profit targets and drawdown limits. For instance, GFT’s current one-step evaluation has a 10% target and a 3% daily loss limit with a 6% maximum loss. On the other hand, its two-step Standard plan has 10% and 5% targets with a 5% daily loss limit and 10% maximum loss. Finally, traders can also consider instant funding options as an alternative to evaluations with varying drawdown and payout conditions.
GFT supports MT5, cTrader, Match Trader, and TradeLocker. The prop firm allows traders to choose a trading platform of their liking. Aside from that, reward arrangements can go up to 100%, but Traders must satisfy the relevant withdrawal conditions, which may include minimum profitable days and other risk-management rules to receive payouts.
GFT can be a great option for those who want to review the traditional approach and benefit from its advantages. It is essential to double-check all the conditions and restrictions when purchasing any of the provided accounts.
Blue Guardian prop firm is operated under the ownership of Blue Guardian Limited, registered in Saint Lucia and with an office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The company provides traders with the opportunity to participate in the Blue Guardian simulated trading programs for forex and CFDs. Additionally, the broker offers separate future funding for trading. Blue Guardian states that its products give traders multiple options for earning on their trading skills.
Blue Guardian offers various accounts, including one, two, and instant funding accounts. Thus, current accounts available for clients are instant, 1 Step Standard, 1 Step Nano, 2 Step Standard, and 2 Step Nano. The size of accounts varies from $5,000 to $200,000, while the total funded allocation for instant accounts is up to $400,000.
Rules can differ depending on the program. For instance, the 1 Step evaluation involves a 10% profit target, a 4% daily stop-loss, and a 6% trailing drawdown. The company offers a scaling program for eligible traders that allows increasing the allocation with certain conditions.
Blue Guardian’s default profit split for standard funded accounts is 85%, while instant accounts have a different structure. The withdrawal option is available for 14 days, and the trader can request an additional 7-day paid extension on eligible funded accounts. The minimum days in a trade must be met, and conditions apply when making payouts.
Blue Guardian is appropriate for traders who seek to compare evaluations and instant funding options in different markets. Before buying, it is essential to examine the fees, drawdowns, news restrictions, platforms, and other terms of the chosen account.
Choosing a prop firm for trading in 2027 entails more than just looking at account sizes, advertised profit splits, and challenge fees. There are dozens of unique things that traders can look for when choosing a suitable firm. These may include trading rules, drawdown limits, minimum trading days, consistency rules, restrictions, and other conditions.
As seen from the list above, FTMO, Audacity Capital, FundedNext, FundingPips, The5ers, E8 Markets, Alpha Capital Group, TopStep, Goat Funded Trader, and Blueberry Funded offer various types of funding programs. This means that traders should evaluate their trading strategy, experience level, budget, needs, and goals before choosing a firm.
By understanding your trading style and goals, it becomes easier to choose a prop firm in 2027. All you need to understand are the drawdown rules, profit target, percentage of the reward, supported platforms, restrictions, and additional costs to know whether the prop firm is suitable for you or not.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always review each prop firm’s official rules before making a purchase.