RISK

Trading carries substantial risk of loss. Prop evaluation fees are typically non-refundable and the majority of traders do not pass first attempts. This comparison is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Read full risk warning

HEAD-TO-HEAD COMPARISON · 2026

Topstep vs Smart Prop Trader

Side-by-side comparison of trust scores, profit splits, payout speed, and real trader reviews. Independent data — no sponsored rankings.

TOPS

Topstep

✓ VERIFIEDEST. 2012

SMPT

Smart Prop Trader

EST. 2022

TOPSTEP

METRIC

SMART PROP TRADER

66/100—

TRUST SCORE

BETTER73/100

4/5BETTER

RATING

—0/5

90%BETTER

PROFIT SPLIT

—85%

$150,000—

MAX FUNDING

BETTER$800,000

$49BETTER

MIN COST

—$97

7dTIE

PAYOUT DAYS

TIE7d

28%

PASS RATE

—

1BETTER

REVIEW COUNT

—0

TOPSTEP DETAILS

STEPS: 1-phase
DRAWDOWN: Trailing EOD
MARKETS: Futures
PLATFORMS: MT4, MT5
TYPES: futures, beginner

SMART PROP TRADER DETAILS

STEPS: 2-phase
DRAWDOWN: Fixed
MARKETS: Forex, Indices, Commodities, Metals
PLATFORMS: MT4, MT5
TYPES: forex, large-cap

Topstep PROS

+Profit split of 90% is well above the industry average of 84.7%, offering traders a superior earnings share.
+Min challenge cost of $49 is well below the industry average of $186.7, making entry highly accessible.
+Single-step funding is better than the industry average of 1.6 steps, streamlining the path to funded status.
+Founded in 2012, Topstep is one of the most established prop firms, providing strong credibility and track record.

Topstep CONS

−Max funding of $150,000 is far below the industry average of $839,272.7, significantly limiting earning potential.
−Overall drawdown of 10% with trailing EOD type means drawdown limits tighten as profits grow, increasing risk.
−Days to first payout at 7 is slightly above the industry average of 6.5, a minor but notable delay.

Smart Prop Trader PROS

+Profit split of 85% is above the industry average of 84.7%.
+Minimum challenge cost of $97 is well below the industry average of $186.7.
+On-demand payouts, weekend holding, news trading, and EA use are all permitted.
+Supports multiple platforms including MT4 and MT5.

Smart Prop Trader CONS

−Max funding of $800,000 is slightly below the industry average of $839,272.7.
−Days to first payout of 7 is marginally above the industry average of 6.5 days.
−No fee refund offered, adding cost risk for traders who do not pass the challenge.

PROPDNA VERDICT

Topstep

Lower trust score (66/100). Faster payouts at 7d. 90% profit split.

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