TopstepvsTake Profit Trader
Topstep ($149 activation) vs TPT ($0 activation + Day 1 payouts). Compare fees, payout speed & rules. The winner is clear →
Exclusive Codes
Topstep
Auto-ApplyTake Profit Trader
Auto-ApplyTopstep
Take Profit Trader
Winner* Prices shown are for the cheapest account with current promotions
WINNER: TAKE PROFIT TRADER
* Price shown for the cheapest account with current promotion
Is Topstep or TPT Better?
The industry pioneer vs the speed disruptor. Topstep has been funding traders since 2012 - they invented the prop firm evaluation model. But Take Profit Trader is rewriting the rules with Day 1 payouts and zero activation fees. When you do the math, TPT's total cost to get funded ($150) is 24% cheaper than Topstep ($198) when you factor in the $149 activation fee. Speed AND savings? That's a hard combo to beat.
What Are the Key Differences Between Topstep and TPT?
Here is a side-by-side comparison of Topstep and Take Profit Trader across pricing, profit split, drawdown rules, platforms, and payout speed. The winner of each category is highlighted.
| Category | Topstep | TPT | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activation Fee | $149 per account | ✓$0 (FREE) | TPT |
| First Payout | 10-15 days (5 winning days) | ✓Day 1 (PRO+) | TPT |
| Total Cost (50k) | $198 (eval + activation) | ✓$170 (eval only) | TPT |
| Daily Loss Limit | Yes (varies) | ✓None | TPT |
| Drawdown Type | Trailing | ✓EOD Trailing | TPT |
| Platforms | ✓Tradovate, TS, NinjaTrader | Tradovate, NinjaTrader | Topstep |
| Founded | ✓2012 (12+ years) | 2022 (3 years) | Topstep |
| Profit Split | 90/10 | 90/10 | Tie |
* Prices shown are for the cheapest account with current promotions
How Do Topstep and TPT Handle Payouts?
Critical InfoPayout rules are the most important factor when choosing a prop firm. Below is a detailed comparison of withdrawal limits, payout cycles, and buffer rules between Topstep and Take Profit Trader.
| ⚠️ Rule | Topstep | TPT |
|---|---|---|
💵Max Withdrawal (Simulated) | 50% of balance | No daily cap (PRO+) |
🏦Max Withdrawal (Live) | 50% of balance | Unlimited |
🔄Payout Cycle | Weekly (after 5 winning days) | Day 1 (PRO+) |
⚠️Buffer Rule (The "Gotcha") | Must maintain buffer above threshold | EOD - more breathing room |
💡Understanding withdrawal rules is crucial before choosing a prop firm. These limits can significantly impact your trading strategy.
Prop firm rules (especially dynamic scaling and payout caps) change frequently. Please verify the latest T&Cs on the official website before signing up.
What Does Our Testing Reveal About Topstep vs TPT?
Take Profit Trader wins on total cost ($150 vs $198 with activation fees) and payout speed (Day 1 vs 10-15 days). Topstep wins on reputation (12 years) and platform options.
Choose Topstep if...
Choose Topstep for 12-year track record, educational resources, and if you're a beginner wanting the safest brand.
Get started with TopstepChoose TPT if...
Choose TPT for Day 1 payouts, $0 activation fee, and if you want your money FAST.
Claim TPT DealWho Should Choose Each Firm?
Topstep is best for:
- You want the most recognized brand (12+ years)
- You value educational resources and community
- You want TradingView integration (via Tradovate)
- You're a beginner who wants the 'safest' choice
- You don't mind the $149 activation fee
- Weekly payouts are acceptable to you
Take Profit Trader is best for:
- You want your money on Day 1 (no waiting)
- You hate activation fees ($0 vs $149)
- You want to be profitable faster (math wins)
- You prefer EOD drawdown (safer for swing trading)
- No daily loss limit appeals to you
- You want 90% profit split from the start
What Are the Pros and Cons of Topstep vs TPT?
Every prop firm has strengths and weaknesses. Here is an honest breakdown of what Topstep and Take Profit Trader each do well and where they fall short.
Topstep
Pros
- ✅One of the oldest prop firms (since 2012)
- ✅Weekly payouts available
- ✅90/10 profit split
- ✅Strong educational resources
Cons
- ❌Daily loss limit applies
- ❌Monthly subscription model
- ❌Fewer account size options
Take Profit Trader
Pros
- ✅No Activation Fee
- ✅Day-one withdrawals (PRO+)
- ✅90% profit split
- ✅No consistency rule
- ✅No daily loss limit
Cons
- ❌Established 2022
- ❌Smaller payout history
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Take Profit Trader cheaper even though the eval costs more?
What is Day 1 payout at Take Profit Trader?
Is Topstep more trustworthy because it's older?
Which has better payout rules?
Can I use TradingView with both?
What Is the Final Verdict on Topstep vs TPT?
Two premium futures prop firms with different philosophies. Topstep offers NFA registration and 14 years of industry trust — no other firm matches this regulatory pedigree. Take Profit Trader offers Day 1 payouts, static drawdown, and $0 activation fee — features Topstep does not match. For maximum regulatory safety, Topstep is unmatched. For maximum payout speed and rule flexibility, TPT wins. Price-wise, both are mid-range ($49-$150). The real differentiator is what matters more to you: the NFA badge or Day 1 payouts.
Ready to Get Started?
Choose the prop firm that best fits your trading style and start your funded trading journey today.
* Prices shown are for the cheapest account with current promotions
Read Our Full Reviews
In-depth analysis, pricing, rules & verdict
In-depth analysis, pricing, rules & verdict