Best Prop Firms: Comparison Guide
A neutral, criteria-based overview to help you shortlist firms by rules, costs, payouts, platforms and support quality.
Key comparison criteria
- Rule strictness: daily loss, max DD (static/trailing), min days, news windows.
- Trading conditions: spreads/commissions, execution, allowed products/platforms.
- Payout mechanics: frequency, minimums, methods, processing time.
- Scaling path and profit split improvements.
- Transparency, change logs, support responsiveness.
How to shortlist
- Pick 3–5 firms whose rules match your strategy and time zone.
- Compare costs with your edge; include spreads/commissions.
- Confirm payout methods you can use and typical processing times.
- Scan community feedback for recurring, specific operational issues.
Practical tips
- Avoid firms with frequent silent rule changes and unclear ToS.
- Start with smaller size; scale after clean payout cycles.
- Keep risk templates consistent across phases and funding.
Next steps
Methodology (how to compare objectively)
- Normalize rules: convert loss limits and targets to percentages.
- Quantify costs: fee + average monthly trading costs under your style.
- Assess execution: spreads/commissions and slippage in your sessions.
- Verify payouts: frequency, methods you can access, average timing.
- Rate transparency: public rule changes, support SLA, dispute handling.
Scoring template (downloadable concept)
Assign 1–5 to each category, weight by importance (e.g., Rules 30%, Payouts 25%, Trading conditions 25%, Transparency 20%), then compute a weighted score to rank your shortlist.
Case studies
- Scalper (London): prioritizes spreads/commissions and static DD.
- Swing trader: favors wider holding allowances and flexible news rules.
- Futures intraday: checks trailing DD specifics and exchange fees.
FAQ
Why do rankings differ across websites?
Different weightings and update cadence. Use a rubric tailored to your style and time zone.
Are fees refunded after passing?
Some firms refund partially or fully upon funding or first payout. Check policy details.
How important is support?
Critical when clarifying rules and handling payouts. Prefer firms with documented SLAs and clear comms.