Looking to trade futures with more capital than you have in your own account? Prop firms can be a great way to do that. They let you trade with their money after you pass an evaluation. It's a way to get funded without risking your own cash. But with so many out there, how do you pick the right one? We've looked into some of the best futures prop firms for 2025 to help you figure that out.
Key Takeaways
- Prop firms provide traders with access to significant capital, allowing for potentially larger profits without risking personal funds.
- Passing an evaluation is usually the first step, requiring traders to meet specific profit targets while adhering to strict risk management rules.
- Choosing a firm with a solid reputation and transparent rules is important to avoid scams and ensure you get paid.
- Some firms offer automated trading solutions or are compatible with them, which can help traders meet evaluation criteria.
- Understanding the profit split and payout structure is key when comparing different prop firms.
1. Apex Trader Funding
Apex Trader Funding has really made a name for itself in the prop trading world, and for good reason. They've been around since 2021 and are based out of Austin, Texas. What's cool about them is how they approach things, especially with their Apex 3.0 program. They've simplified a lot of the rules, which honestly makes a big difference when you're trying to trade consistently and not stress about breaking some obscure guideline.
One of the biggest draws is their profit split. You get to keep 100% of your first $25,000 in profits, and after that, it's a 90/10 split in your favor. That's pretty generous. They also let you request payouts twice a month, which is nice for cash flow. You don't have to wait forever to get paid.
When it comes to the actual trading rules, they've done away with daily drawdown limits, which is a huge plus for many traders. They do have a trailing threshold, which moves up with your profits, so you still need to manage risk, but it's not as restrictive as some other firms. You need to trade for at least eight days, with at least five of those days hitting a $100 profit target, to qualify for a payout. They also allow trading on holidays and during news events, which is a big deal for strategies that capitalize on volatility.
Here's a quick look at their account sizes and targets:
They also let you trade multiple accounts, up to 20, which is pretty wild if you want to scale things up. It really gives you a lot of flexibility to manage your risk and grow your potential earnings. For traders who want a straightforward path with good profit potential, Apex Trader Funding is definitely worth checking out. It's a solid choice for getting into the prop trading scene. If you're looking for ways to refine your trading approach and stick to prop firm rules, tools like those offered by Lune Trading can be really helpful in automating analysis and execution.
2. Topstep
Topstep has been around for a while, making it one of the more established names in the futures prop trading scene. They offer a pretty clear path for traders who want to get their hands on some serious capital without putting their own savings on the line. It all starts with their 'Trading Combine,' which is basically their evaluation process. You pick an account size – they have $50K, $100K, and $150K options – and then you have to hit a profit target while sticking to their rules.
It’s not just about making money, though. Topstep is big on risk management. You’ve got a daily loss limit and a maximum trailing drawdown to worry about. Hitting these limits means your evaluation account gets closed for the day or, if it’s a hard breach, the account is done. They also have this thing called a 'Consistency Target' in the Combine, which stops you from just getting lucky on one massive trade. It means your biggest winning day can't be more than half of your total profit target. It sounds strict, but it’s designed to make you a more disciplined trader.
Once you pass the Combine, you move to an Express Funded Account (XFA). There’s a one-time fee for this, but then you’re trading with simulated funds and can actually start earning real payouts. They have a pretty sweet deal where you get 100% of your first $10,000 in profits, and then it’s a 90/10 split in your favor after that. They also let you have up to five of these accounts going at once, which is pretty neat for scaling up your potential.
Topstep supports a bunch of trading platforms, including NinjaTrader, TradingView, and Tradovate, so you've likely got your preferred setup covered. They focus on futures contracts, covering major markets like CME, NYMEX, COMEX, and CBOT.
For traders looking to refine their strategies and ensure they meet the strict requirements of firms like Topstep, exploring advanced tools can be beneficial. Solutions that offer automated analysis and execution, like those from Lune Automated Strategies, can help traders stay consistent and manage risk effectively within these evaluation frameworks. This helps traders adapt their approach.
3. BluSky Trading
BluSky Trading is a prop firm that's been getting some attention lately, and for good reason. They focus on futures trading and offer a pretty straightforward path to getting a funded account. It seems like they're trying to make things less complicated for traders, which is always a plus in this industry.
One of the things that stands out is their approach to getting you into a funded account. After you pass their evaluation, there's no extra fee to activate it. That's a big deal because some firms hit you with additional charges at that point. They also let you trade with real money once you're funded, which is the whole point, right?
Here’s a quick look at some of their key features:
- No Funded Activation Fee: Once you pass, you're good to go without extra costs.
- Daily Payouts: You can request payouts every day from your funded brokerage account, which is pretty sweet.
- Free Platforms: They include popular platforms like NinjaTrader and Tradovate at no extra charge.
- 1-on-1 Coaching: This is a nice touch. They offer free coaching sessions to help you improve your trading.
When it comes to the actual trading rules, they have different account types, like their "Premium Evaluations" and "Static Growth Plans." The Premium ones have an end-of-day trailing drawdown, which means your minimum balance goes up as you make profits but doesn't drop if you have losses. The Static Growth plans have a fixed drawdown, which some traders might find simpler to manage. They also have a consistency rule, which they've updated to be a bit more forgiving for those big winning days. It’s important to understand these rules because breaking them means you don't pass the evaluation.
The profit split is a solid 90/10 in favor of the trader, which is pretty competitive. This means for every $100 you make, you get $90. They also have a minimum withdrawal amount of $250 from the brokerage account, and initial payouts have limits depending on the account size, but after that, there aren't really limits, though they do advise being reasonable.
For traders looking for a structured way to get funded and who appreciate support like coaching and a community, BluSky Trading seems like a solid option to consider. It's worth checking out their website to see if their program fits your trading style and goals. If you're exploring different automated trading solutions, you might also find tools like those offered by Lune Trading helpful for executing strategies within prop firm guidelines.
4. Tradeify
Tradeify is another prop firm that's been making some noise in the futures trading space. They're aiming to give traders a shot at bigger capital without having to put up a ton of their own money upfront. It's a pretty common setup these days, but Tradeify has its own way of doing things.
They offer a couple of main paths to get funded. You've got your standard evaluation accounts, which they call 'Advanced' and 'Growth'. These are usually subscription-based, meaning you pay a monthly fee to keep the account active while you work towards hitting their profit targets. If you mess up and break a rule, you can often reset it when you renew your subscription. Then there's the 'Straight to Sim' option, which is more of a one-time fee to jump right into a simulated funded account. This skips the evaluation phase, which can be appealing if you're confident in your trading skills.
When you're in the evaluation phase, you'll need to hit a profit target, which varies depending on the account size you choose. For example, a $50,000 account might have a $3,000 target, while a $150,000 account could be $9,000. You also have to watch out for drawdown limits. The 'Advanced' accounts don't have a daily loss limit, which some traders prefer, but the 'Growth' and 'Straight to Sim' accounts do have a soft daily breach rule that can be removed. Both types have a maximum trailing drawdown, which is something you definitely need to keep an eye on.
The profit split with Tradeify is pretty generous, with traders taking home 90% of the profits.
They allow trading on platforms like Tradovate, TradingView, and NinjaTrader, and you can trade various futures markets, including those from CME Group and Coinbase Derivatives. One thing to note is that they limit you to a total of five funded accounts across all types. It's a decent setup, especially with that 90% profit share, but like any prop firm, you'll want to read all the rules carefully before jumping in. For traders looking for a straightforward path and a good chunk of the profits, Tradeify is worth a look, especially if you're already familiar with platforms like Lune Trading's recommended tools.
5. MyFundedFutures
MyFundedFutures, often shortened to MFFU, is a prop firm that really tries to build a community around its traders. They offer a few different ways to get into their funded program, which is pretty standard for these kinds of places. You've got your evaluation accounts, and they have different levels like 'Starter' and 'Expert', each with its own set of rules and targets. Some plans are subscription-based, while others are a one-time fee, so you can pick what works best for your budget.
The main goal is to pass their evaluation, which means hitting a profit target without breaking their drawdown rules. They have a maximum end-of-day drawdown, and for some plans, there's also a daily loss limit, though it might be a 'soft breach' on the starter accounts. It’s important to really know the specifics of the plan you choose because the rules can change. For instance, the 'Milestone' and 'Eval-to-Live' plans have a consistency rule, meaning your profits need to be somewhat spread out, not just one huge winning trade.
Here's a quick look at some common $50k account options:
Once you pass the evaluation, you move to a simulated funded account. This is where you can start requesting payouts based on your performance. They have a pretty decent profit split, usually 100% on the first $10k and then 90/10 after that for standard plans. If you're consistently profitable and follow all the rules, you might even get to trade a live account with real capital. They also offer a good range of trading platforms like TradingView, NinjaTrader, and others, which is a plus. For traders looking for automated solutions to help manage risk and execute strategies, especially with prop firm rules in mind, exploring options like Lune Automated Strategies could be a smart move to complement your trading approach.
6. E8 Markets
E8 Markets is a prop firm that's been making some waves, especially for forex traders looking to get their hands on more capital. They've got this evaluation system where you prove your trading chops, and if you do well, they hook you up with a funded account. What's pretty neat is how customizable their evaluations are. You can tweak things like the drawdown limits, profit targets, and even how much of the profit you get to keep – sometimes up to 100%, which is pretty generous.
They offer a few different account types, like the E8 One, E8 Pro, and E8 Track, each with its own set of rules. For instance, the E8 One has a daily drawdown limit that's a percentage of your balance, and a trailing drawdown that follows your highest balance. The E8 Pro has this 'daily pause' feature, which is a bit different. It's important to really get into the nitty-gritty of the rules for whichever account you pick, because breaking them means your evaluation is over.
Here's a quick look at some of the general rules you'll find:
- Daily Drawdown: Usually a percentage of your starting balance. For example, E8 One might have a 3-9.2% limit.
- Maximum Drawdown: This is a hard stop, often a trailing drawdown that locks in once you hit a certain profit level.
- Profit Target: You'll need to hit a specific profit goal, which varies by account type, like 10% for E8 One.
- Minimum Trading Days: Most accounts require at least a few days of trading to pass.
- Consistency Rule: Some accounts have a 'Best Day' rule, meaning no single day's profit can be more than 40% of your total profit. This stops traders from taking huge risks on one day.
E8 Markets seems to focus on giving traders flexibility, which is a big deal. Being able to adjust parameters to fit your personal trading style can make a huge difference in passing the evaluation and then performing well in a funded account. It’s not just about hitting a target; it’s about doing it consistently and responsibly.
When you're looking at firms, it's good to see options that offer advanced tools or integrations. For traders who want to automate their strategies, something like Lune Auto Trader could be a game-changer, especially if it's designed to work with the specific rules and platforms of firms like E8 Markets.
7. Lune Automated Strategies
When you're looking to automate your trading, especially with prop firms, you need tools that are reliable and compatible. That's where solutions like Lune Automated Strategies come into play. They've developed a system designed to take your TradingView strategies and make them work automatically across various platforms. This means less time spent manually clicking trades and more time focusing on your strategy's performance.
What's really interesting is how they've built this. It's not just about pushing buttons; it's about advanced tech. They use AI and machine learning to create algorithms that can adapt as the market changes. This is a big deal because markets are always moving, and a strategy that worked yesterday might not work today. Having something that can adjust is pretty neat.
Here's a quick look at what makes their approach stand out:
- AI-Powered Algorithms: Uses real AI and machine learning for smarter, adaptive strategies.
- Rigorous Testing: Strategies are thoroughly backtested and forward-tested to ensure reliability.
- Prop Firm Friendly: Designed to work with the rules of most major prop trading firms.
- Advanced Risk Controls: Includes tools for managing Take Profit, Stop Loss, and Trailing Stops.
The goal here is to remove the emotional aspect of trading and replace it with data-driven execution. This can lead to more consistent results and help traders stick to their plans, which is super important when you're trying to pass evaluations or manage a funded account.
For traders who already have a strategy they trust on TradingView, the Lune Auto Trader acts as a bridge. It connects your alerts to platforms like NinjaTrader or Tradovate, allowing for instant, automated execution. This kind of setup is what many traders are looking for to scale their operations and reduce errors. If you're interested in exploring how automation can fit into your trading, checking out Lune Trading's solutions might be a good next step.
8. Prop Firm Scams
It's a real bummer when you put in the work to pass a prop firm evaluation, only to find out the firm isn't on the level. Unfortunately, the world of proprietary trading isn't without its bad actors. These scam operations can take your evaluation fees and then make it nearly impossible to ever get paid out, or they might just disappear altogether. You really have to be careful.
So, how do you spot these shady operations before you hand over your hard-earned cash? It often comes down to a few key warning signs. First off, if a firm seems too good to be true, it probably is. Think about it: extremely low evaluation fees compared to established players, or promises of guaranteed funding with minimal effort. That's a big red flag.
Another thing to watch out for is a lack of transparency. Reputable firms are usually upfront about their rules, their team, and their history. If a firm is all anonymous, with no clear leadership or contact information, that's not a great sign. Also, check out reviews on independent sites. While some negative reviews are normal for any business, a pattern of complaints about missed payouts or unfair rule enforcement is a serious concern. Some firms might even try to trick you with overly complex rules that are designed for you to fail. It's a good idea to look for firms that have been around for a while, like some of the more established ones we've discussed, rather than jumping on board with a brand-new operation that has no track record.
Here are some common red flags to keep an eye out for:
- Unrealistic Promises: Guarantees of high profits with little effort or extremely low evaluation fees.
- Lack of Transparency: Anonymous teams, unclear rules, or difficulty finding contact information.
- Poor or Non-Existent Reviews: A consistent pattern of complaints about payouts or unfair practices.
- High-Frequency Trading (HFT) Focus: Firms that heavily promote or require HFT strategies can sometimes be a sign of a less legitimate operation.
- Sudden Disappearances: Firms that vanish without notice, taking trader funds with them.
It's also worth noting that while many firms offer automated solutions, be wary of any firm that claims their automated system is the only way to succeed or that it bypasses all standard trading rules. While tools like those offered by Lune Automated Strategies can be incredibly helpful for traders adhering to prop firm rules, they are designed to work within those frameworks, not circumvent them entirely. Always do your homework and stick with firms that have a solid reputation and clear, fair practices. Your trading capital is valuable, and you don't want to risk it on a scam.
9. Virtual Prop Firm Evaluations
So, you're looking into prop firms, huh? It's a pretty common path these days for traders who want to work with more capital than they have on hand. A big part of this world involves what they call 'virtual prop firm evaluations.' Basically, it's a test, a way for these firms to see if you've got the chops to trade responsibly before they hand over their money. Think of it like a job interview, but with simulated trading accounts.
Most of these evaluations have a few key things you need to nail. You'll usually have a profit target to hit, like making 10% on the account. But here's the catch: you also have strict rules about not losing too much. We're talking about limits on how much you can lose in a single day, and an overall limit for the entire evaluation period. If you blow past those limits, you fail the evaluation, and you're usually out until you pay for another try. It's all about proving you can manage risk, not just chase profits.
Here’s a general idea of how it often goes:
- Phase 1: You get a demo account and need to reach a specific profit goal, say 10%, while staying within the daily and overall loss limits. These limits are often around 5% daily and 10% overall.
- Phase 2: If you pass Phase 1, you move to a second phase, which might have a slightly lower profit target, maybe 5%, but the same strict risk rules.
- Funded Account: Pass both phases, and congratulations! You get a funded account. You'll still have to follow those risk rules, but now you're trading with the firm's capital and can actually earn real money. Typically, you get to keep a good chunk of the profits, often 80% or more.
It's not a walk in the park, though. The stats show that only a small percentage of traders actually make it through these evaluations and get funded. It takes discipline, a solid trading plan, and a good understanding of risk management. Some traders find that using tools to help manage their trades can make a difference. For instance, advanced trading platforms and automated strategies, like those offered by Lune Trading, can help traders stick to their plans and manage risk more effectively, which is super important when you're trying to pass these evaluations and trade with real capital. You can find more details on how different firms structure their evaluations on sites like PropFirmMatch.com.
The whole point of these evaluations is to filter out traders who are too risky or undisciplined. They want to partner with people who can consistently make money without blowing up the account. It's a business for them, after all, and they're protecting their capital.
10. Choosing The Right Prop Firm
So, you've made it through the list and are probably wondering how to pick the best prop firm for you. It's not a one-size-fits-all situation, that's for sure. Think about what you're good at and what you need. Do you prefer a firm with really simple rules, or are you okay with a bit more complexity if it means more profit potential? Some traders do really well with firms that have no daily loss limits, like Apex Trader Funding, because it gives them room to breathe. Others might prefer a more structured approach, even if it means tighter rules.
Here are a few things to really zero in on:
- Evaluation Rules: This is huge. Look at the profit targets, the drawdown limits (both daily and overall), and how long you have to pass. Some firms, like Topstep, have specific daily objectives, while others, like Apex, offer more freedom. It's about finding a balance that fits your trading style.
- Costs: Don't forget the fees. Evaluation fees can add up, and some are monthly subscriptions while others are one-time payments. Compare these costs against the potential rewards and the firm's reputation.
- Payout Structure: How do you get paid? Some firms offer 100% of the first chunk of profits, then a split, while others have different models. Regular payouts are important for cash flow.
- Support and Community: A good prop firm will offer some level of support. Maybe it's educational resources, coaching, or even just a community forum where you can connect with other traders. Firms like MyFundedFutures emphasize community.
- Trading Platform and Markets: Make sure the firm supports the platforms you like to use and the markets you want to trade. Most offer futures, but some might have more options.
It's easy to get caught up in the hype of big profit targets, but remember that consistency and risk management are what truly matter in the long run. A firm that helps you build good habits is often better than one that just offers the highest potential payout with impossible rules.
When you're looking at different options, it's smart to check out reviews and see what other traders are saying. Websites that compare prop firms can be a good starting point to get a feel for their reputation and any potential red flags. For instance, if you're interested in automated trading solutions that are designed to work within the strict parameters of many prop firm challenges, you might look into tools like those offered by Lune Trading. They have strategies built with prop firm rules in mind, which could be a game-changer for some traders. Ultimately, the best prop firm is the one that aligns with your trading personality and goals, helping you grow as a trader without unnecessary stress. This guide can help beginners select reliable futures prop firms to get started.
Picking the right trading company can feel like a big decision. You want a partner that helps you succeed, not one that holds you back. Think about what you need most in your trading journey. Do you want tools that make trading easier, or strategies that give you an edge? Finding the best fit is key to reaching your goals. Ready to explore options that fit your style? Visit our website to see how we can help you trade smarter.
Wrapping It Up: Your Path to Prop Trading Success
So, we've looked at a bunch of futures prop firms, and it's clear there are some solid options out there for traders in 2025. Whether you're just starting out or you've been trading for a while, finding the right firm can really change things. Remember to check out the rules, the fees, and especially how they handle payouts. Don't just jump into the first one you see. Do your homework, pick a firm that fits your style, and stick to your trading plan. It takes work, but getting funded and trading with more capital is totally doable. Good luck out there!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a prop firm, and why would a trader want to use one?
A prop firm, short for proprietary trading firm, is a company that gives money to skilled traders to trade with. Think of it like a bank or investment company that has a lot of cash and wants to make more by letting good traders use it. Traders like using prop firms because they can trade with much bigger amounts of money than they might have themselves. This means even a small winning percentage can lead to a lot more money in their pocket, without them having to risk their own savings.
How do I get started with a prop firm?
Most prop firms have a test, kind of like a school exam, to see if you're a good trader. You usually pay a fee to take this test, which is often done on a practice account. You'll need to show that you can make money while following their rules, like not losing too much money too quickly. If you pass the test, they'll let you trade with their money.
What are the common rules I need to follow with a prop firm?
Prop firms have rules to protect their money. Some common ones include not losing more than a certain amount in one day, not losing more than a certain amount overall, and sometimes having to trade for a minimum number of days. They also have rules about how much profit you need to make. It's super important to read and understand these rules for each firm you consider.
Are there fake prop firms out there, and how can I spot them?
Yes, unfortunately, there are some scammy prop firms. Be careful if a firm sounds too good to be true, like promising huge profits with no risk. Always check how long the company has been around and what other traders say about them online. Look for firms that are clear about their rules and payout processes. If they don't have clear contact information or seem shady, it's best to avoid them.
How often do traders actually make money or get paid by prop firms?
It's tough to pass the tests and then consistently make money. Only a small percentage of traders who start the evaluation process end up getting paid. However, the firms that are legit do pay their successful traders. The amount and frequency of payouts depend on the specific prop firm's rules, but many offer regular payment schedules once you're funded and profitable.
Can I use trading software or robots to help me pass the prop firm tests?
Some prop firms allow you to use automated trading software, often called Expert Advisors (EAs) or trading bots. However, you must check the firm's rules first, as some don't permit them or have specific requirements if you do use them. Software like Lune Automated Strategies is designed to work with prop firm rules and can help manage risk and execute trades automatically.
