The prop trading industry has grown significantly, with dozens of firms competing for traders' attention. But which ones are actually worth your money? We've analyzed over 20 firms based on profit splits, challenge pricing, payout reliability, platform quality, and trader feedback to bring you this definitive ranking.
What Makes a Good Prop Firm?
Before diving into our rankings, let's establish the criteria that matter most:
- Profit Split — How much of your profits do you keep? Industry standard ranges from 75% to 95%.
- Challenge Cost — The upfront fee to attempt an evaluation. Lower is better, but watch for hidden costs.
- Payout Speed — How quickly you receive your money after requesting a withdrawal.
- Trading Rules — Are the rules fair and clearly stated? Watch for hidden restrictions.
- Platform Quality — Execution speed, spread conditions, and platform stability.
- Track Record — How long has the firm been operating? Do they have a history of paying traders?
Our Top 10 Prop Firms for 2025
1. FTMO
FTMO remains the gold standard in prop trading. Founded in 2015, they've paid out over $200 million to traders worldwide. Their 2-step challenge is well-designed, and the 90% profit split is competitive.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Profit Split | Up to 90% |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade |
| Account Sizes | $10K - $200K |
| Challenge Type | 2-step |
Cons: Challenge fee is higher than newer competitors, strict news trading rules.
2. FundedNext
FundedNext has quickly become a top contender with their unique approach of sharing profits from the evaluation phase itself. Their Stellar and Express models cater to different trading styles, and the profit split goes up to 95%.
Pros: Profit sharing from day one, up to 95% split, multiple challenge models.
Cons: Relatively newer firm, some traders report wider spreads during news.
3. The5ers
Operating since 2016, The5ers is one of the most established prop firms. Their Hyper Growth program lets traders scale up to $4 million, making it ideal for serious traders looking for maximum capital.
Pros: Pioneer since 2016, massive scaling potential, instant funding option.
Cons: Lower base profit split (75%), MT5 only.
4. FundedTradingPlus
Known for their no-time-limit challenges, FundedTradingPlus removes one of the biggest stressors in prop trading. Their rules are simple, and the 90% profit split is competitive.
Pros: No time limits, simple rules, instant funding option, multiple platforms.
Cons: Scaling plan could be more aggressive.
5. FXIFY
FXIFY offers both 1-phase and 2-phase challenges, with an instant funding option that skips the evaluation entirely. Their add-on system lets traders customize their accounts.
Pros: Flexible challenge types, instant funding, 90% profit split, no minimum days.
Cons: Add-ons can increase the total cost significantly.
6. Goat Funded Trader
With an 8% profit target and no time limit, Goat Funded Trader makes it achievable for consistent traders to get funded. Their pricing is competitive, and bi-weekly payouts keep the cash flowing.
Pros: Low profit targets, competitive pricing, no time limit, bi-weekly payouts.
Cons: Newer firm with less track record.
7. Alpha Capital Group
UK-based Alpha Capital Group stands out with affordable entry points starting from just $49. Their fast scaling plan and no-time-limit policy make them excellent for budget-conscious traders.
Pros: Very affordable, UK-based, fast scaling, no time limit.
Cons: Smaller maximum allocation compared to top firms.
8. MyFundedFX
MyFundedFX is known for rapid payout processing and transparent rules. With no minimum trading days and straightforward conditions, it's a solid choice for traders who want simplicity.
Pros: Fast payouts, simple rules, no minimum days, add-on options.
Cons: Limited to MetaTrader platforms.
9. Bulenox (Futures)
For futures traders, Bulenox is one of the best options available. Their no-daily-drawdown policy and 90% profit split make them stand out in the futures prop firm space.
Pros: No daily drawdown, 90% split, fast payouts, EOD trailing.
Cons: Futures only — no forex or CFDs.
10. TakeProfitTrader (Futures)
TakeProfitTrader offers an excellent futures program with PRO accounts, fast activation, and built-in journaling tools. Their 90% profit split and strong trader support make them a top futures choice.
Pros: Excellent futures program, 90% split, journaling tools, fast activation.
Cons: Futures only, limited to NinjaTrader/Tradovate/TradingView.
How to Choose the Right Prop Firm
The best prop firm depends on your specific needs:
- For forex traders: FTMO, FundedNext, or FundedTradingPlus
- For futures traders: Bulenox, TakeProfitTrader, or My Funded Futures
- On a budget: Alpha Capital Group or Goat Funded Trader
- Want instant funding: FXIFY, FunderPro, or The5ers
- Maximum capital: The5ers ($4M scaling) or FTMO ($2M)
Final Thoughts
The prop trading industry in 2025 offers more options than ever. Competition has driven profit splits higher, challenge fees lower, and trading conditions better. Whether you're a forex scalper, a swing trader, or a futures specialist, there's a firm that matches your style.
The key is to do your research, start with a challenge size you can afford, and treat the evaluation like a real trading account. The firms on this list have all proven themselves through consistent payouts and fair trading conditions.
Compare all these firms side by side on our comparison tool to find your perfect match.