If you are exploring proprietary trading firms, you’ve likely come across Topstep — one of the most recognized names in the trading evaluation industry. In this detailed Topstep Review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how Topstep works, its funding structure, rules, fees, payout system, and whether it’s a good fit for traders in 2025.
What Is Topstep?
Topstep is a proprietary trading firm (prop firm) that allows traders to prove their skills in a simulated trading environment before accessing real funded accounts. Founded in 2012, Topstep focuses primarily on futures trading, helping traders develop discipline and risk management habits before managing real capital.
In simple terms, you start trading on a demo account, meet specific performance targets while following risk rules, and if you succeed, Topstep funds you with a live trading account. You then share profits according to the firm’s payout structure.
How Topstep Works
Topstep operates using a two-step evaluation process called the Trading Combine:
If you successfully pass both steps, you’re offered a Topstep Funded Account, where you can trade real futures markets and withdraw profits.
Account Sizes and Pricing
Topstep offers multiple account options:
Each account comes with specific profit targets, daily loss limits, and maximum trailing drawdowns.
Example: $50K Account Rules
These rules are designed to promote risk management discipline, which is central to Topstep’s philosophy.
Topstep Review: Key Features
1. Realistic Trading Conditions
Topstep uses real market data and integrates with platforms like NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and TopstepX, giving traders a realistic experience.
2. Reset Option
If you fail an evaluation, you can reset your account for $99 and start over — a valuable feature for traders refining their strategy.
3. No Time Limits
Unlike many other prop firms, Topstep does not impose time restrictions. You can take as long as you need to pass, provided your subscription remains active.
4. Risk Management Focus
Topstep emphasizes discipline and consistency, penalizing over-leveraging or emotional trading. This approach helps traders build sustainable habits.
5. TopstepX Trading Platform
TopstepX, the firm’s proprietary platform, allows traders to access charts, trade directly, and manage performance analytics all in one interface.
Pros of Topstep
Cons of Topstep
Topstep Payout Rules
Topstep allows traders to withdraw profits weekly after meeting minimum performance milestones.
Withdrawals are processed via bank transfer or PayPal, and there are no payout delays as long as compliance is maintained.
Who Is Topstep Best For?
Topstep is ideal for:
However, if you primarily trade forex, crypto, or stocks, other firms may offer more asset diversity.
Comparison with Other Prop Firms
Feature Topstep Apex Trader Funding Earn2Trade Market FocusFuturesFuturesFuturesFee ModelSubscriptionOne-TimeOne-TimeEvaluation Steps212Payout Split90%90%80%Time LimitNoYesYes
From this comparison, Topstep stands out for flexibility and trader development, though its monthly model may be costlier over time.
Topstep Review: Real User Experience
Many traders report positive experiences with Topstep due to its consistent rules, responsive support, and fast payouts. Others note that strict drawdown enforcement requires careful trade management — a valuable lesson for long-term trading success.
The firm’s coaching programs and TopstepX analytics help traders identify weaknesses, making it more than just a funding provider — it’s a training ecosystem.
Is Topstep Legit or a Scam?
Topstep is 100% legitimate. It has been operating for over a decade and holds a strong reputation in the futures trading industry. The firm is registered in Chicago, adheres to regulatory standards, and has funded thousands of traders globally.
Final Verdict – Topstep Review
To conclude this Topstep Review, Topstep stands out as a reputable and educational prop firm designed to help traders succeed in the futures market. It emphasizes risk management, consistency, and accountability — all vital traits for long-term profitability.
While the monthly fee model may deter some traders, the flexibility, support, and fast funding process make it one of the most reliable choices in 2025.
If you value structure, coaching, and real-world trading discipline, Topstep is an excellent platform to prove your skills and access professional funding.
What Is Topstep?
Topstep is a proprietary trading firm (prop firm) that allows traders to prove their skills in a simulated trading environment before accessing real funded accounts. Founded in 2012, Topstep focuses primarily on futures trading, helping traders develop discipline and risk management habits before managing real capital.
In simple terms, you start trading on a demo account, meet specific performance targets while following risk rules, and if you succeed, Topstep funds you with a live trading account. You then share profits according to the firm’s payout structure.
How Topstep Works
Topstep operates using a two-step evaluation process called the Trading Combine:
- Step 1 – Profit Target & Rules Compliance
You trade a simulated account and aim to hit a profit target (e.g., $3,000 or $9,000 depending on account size) while respecting drawdown and consistency rules. - Step 2 – Confirming Consistency
Once you meet the target in Step 1, Step 2 ensures you can trade consistently without violating rules.
If you successfully pass both steps, you’re offered a Topstep Funded Account, where you can trade real futures markets and withdraw profits.
Account Sizes and Pricing
Topstep offers multiple account options:
- $50K account: $165/month
- $100K account: $325/month
- $150K account: $375/month
Each account comes with specific profit targets, daily loss limits, and maximum trailing drawdowns.
Example: $50K Account Rules
- Profit Target: $3,000
- Daily Loss Limit: $1,000
- Max Trailing Drawdown: $2,000
These rules are designed to promote risk management discipline, which is central to Topstep’s philosophy.
Topstep Review: Key Features
1. Realistic Trading Conditions
Topstep uses real market data and integrates with platforms like NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and TopstepX, giving traders a realistic experience.
2. Reset Option
If you fail an evaluation, you can reset your account for $99 and start over — a valuable feature for traders refining their strategy.
3. No Time Limits
Unlike many other prop firms, Topstep does not impose time restrictions. You can take as long as you need to pass, provided your subscription remains active.
4. Risk Management Focus
Topstep emphasizes discipline and consistency, penalizing over-leveraging or emotional trading. This approach helps traders build sustainable habits.
5. TopstepX Trading Platform
TopstepX, the firm’s proprietary platform, allows traders to access charts, trade directly, and manage performance analytics all in one interface.
Pros of Topstep
- Reputation and Trust: One of the oldest and most established prop firms.
- No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing with clear rules.
- Flexible Evaluation: No minimum trading days or deadlines.
- Educational Support: Includes coaching, webinars, and trader development tools.
- Payout Opportunities: Up to 100% profit split on early withdrawals.
Cons of Topstep
- Monthly Subscription: Continuous evaluation costs may add up if you take longer to pass.
- Strict Rules: Violating drawdown or daily loss limits can reset progress.
- Limited Instruments: Focused mainly on futures, not forex or crypto.
- No One-Time Fee Option: Some competitors offer lifetime access; Topstep does not.
Topstep Payout Rules
Topstep allows traders to withdraw profits weekly after meeting minimum performance milestones.
- Traders keep 100% of their first $5,000 profits.
- Beyond that, they receive 90% profit share.
Withdrawals are processed via bank transfer or PayPal, and there are no payout delays as long as compliance is maintained.
Who Is Topstep Best For?
Topstep is ideal for:
- Beginner traders seeking structure and accountability.
- Futures traders who prefer regulated markets.
- Disciplined individuals aiming to trade professionally.
- Traders needing funding without risking personal capital.
However, if you primarily trade forex, crypto, or stocks, other firms may offer more asset diversity.
Comparison with Other Prop Firms
Feature Topstep Apex Trader Funding Earn2Trade Market FocusFuturesFuturesFuturesFee ModelSubscriptionOne-TimeOne-TimeEvaluation Steps212Payout Split90%90%80%Time LimitNoYesYes
From this comparison, Topstep stands out for flexibility and trader development, though its monthly model may be costlier over time.
Topstep Review: Real User Experience
Many traders report positive experiences with Topstep due to its consistent rules, responsive support, and fast payouts. Others note that strict drawdown enforcement requires careful trade management — a valuable lesson for long-term trading success.
The firm’s coaching programs and TopstepX analytics help traders identify weaknesses, making it more than just a funding provider — it’s a training ecosystem.
Is Topstep Legit or a Scam?
Topstep is 100% legitimate. It has been operating for over a decade and holds a strong reputation in the futures trading industry. The firm is registered in Chicago, adheres to regulatory standards, and has funded thousands of traders globally.
Final Verdict – Topstep Review
To conclude this Topstep Review, Topstep stands out as a reputable and educational prop firm designed to help traders succeed in the futures market. It emphasizes risk management, consistency, and accountability — all vital traits for long-term profitability.
While the monthly fee model may deter some traders, the flexibility, support, and fast funding process make it one of the most reliable choices in 2025.
If you value structure, coaching, and real-world trading discipline, Topstep is an excellent platform to prove your skills and access professional funding.