Prop Firm Comparison: Where They Truly Differ
The table below lists each firm’s hard numbers. This article highlights the differences that actually change your trading experience—so you can spot which firm fits your strategy in seconds.
FTMO
Active CZ 5+ yrs
FTMO is a Czech Republic-based, globally recognized proprietary trading firm, established in 2015. It offers a structured evaluation program to identify talented traders and fund them with accounts up to $200,000, rewarding up to 90% profit split. FTMO provides education, coaching, and premium trader programs with wide platform and asset coverage.
Finotive Funding
Active HU 2–4 yrs
Finotive Funding, headquartered in Hungary, is an innovative proprietary trading firm launched in 2021 with a focus on trader empowerment through transparent rules, scalable funding, and fast payouts. Their unique salary program (Finotive Pro) offers a steady income alongside profit sharing.
Key Differences
Note: Information is for reference only; please visit the firm’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date details.
Criteria
FTMO
Active CZ 5+ yrs
Finotive Funding
Active HU 2–4 yrs
Scaling:
Yes, structured multi-step evaluation followed by scaling and premium program
Yes, multi-level scaling plan with upgrades tied to performance
Max Allocation:
Up to $200,000 initial funded account balance
Up to $3,000,000 (via scaling)
Model / Profit Targets:
FTMO Challenge, Verification phase, FTMO Rewards Account with simulated trading and performance rewards
1-step and 2-step Challenge; Instant Funding and Finotive Pro salary program
Time Limits:
Time-bound challenges but unlimited trading days during funded account phase
No strict time limits; progress tracked through trading days and consistency metrics
DD (Daily/Overall):
Daily loss and maximum loss limits strictly enforced to build discipline
Daily drawdown 5%; max drawdown 10%; max risk varies by account type
Max Loss:
As per risk management rules in challenge phases
10% max loss
News Trading:
Allowed with specific guidelines
Allowed
Payout:
Up to 90% profit split; fast and easy withdrawals; mobile app available
Weekly payouts possible; instant payout processing available; minimum withdrawal not specified
Split:
Up to 90% profit split
Up to 95% profit split depending on account type
Platforms:
Mt5 / CustomplatMetaTrader 5, FTMO proprietary platform
MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5
Tradable Assets:
Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Forex, Metals, Indices, Energy, Crypto, Stocks
Pros & Cons
FTMO — Pros
- Profit split up to 90%, competitive with top-tier firms.
- No hard time maximums beyond minimum-day rules per track.
- Multiple tracks (1-step and 2-step) are available across account sizes.
- Frequent payout cycles with fast processing reported.
- Scaling plan is available after meeting targets.
- Supports MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradeLocker.
- Broad instrument coverage across FX, indices, commodities, metals, stocks, and crypto.
FTMO — Cons
- Minimum trading-days requirement applies during evaluation.
- Daily and total drawdown rules are strict and enforced.
- News-trading restrictions may apply depending on phase and instrument.
Finotive Funding — Pros
- Up to 95% profit split depending on account type and performance.
- No evaluation time limit, allowing flexible pacing.
- Multiple tracks including 1-step and 2-step challenges.
- Instant/direct funding style products are available in some programs.
- Fast payout processing with bi-weekly options and same-day methods reported.
- Scaling program is available to expand allocation over time.
- Supports MetaTrader platforms (MT4/MT5).
- Broad instrument coverage across FX, indices, commodities, metals, stocks, and crypto.
Finotive Funding — Cons
- Daily and overall loss limits can be strict relative to some peers.
- Certain strategy restrictions may apply depending on the program.
- Regional access may be limited depending on brokerage and compliance.
Model & Time Limits: Pace vs. Pressure
- Instant / One-step models favor traders who want quick funding and minimal phases—usually higher fees but faster start.
- Two-phase models trim upfront cost and add verification, but Time Limits can add pressure if you need more trades to realize edge.
- No time limit or lenient windows reduce forced trades; tight windows reward fast, high-activity approaches.
Risk Rules: DD (Daily/Overall) & Max Loss
- Stricter Daily DD = tougher for scalpers during volatility; looser Daily DD = more room for heat intraday.
- Higher Overall DD / Max Loss cushions swing holds; lower buffers suit disciplined, tight-stop systems.
- News Trading allowed favors event traders; restricted news reduces gap risk but limits catalysts.
Payout & Split: Cash Flow vs. Percentage
- Earlier first payout (7–14 days) + frequent cycles = smoother cash flow—even if the split is slightly lower.
- Higher splits shine only if timing, caps, and fees don’t slow you down.
- When two firms tie on split, choose the one with fewer payout frictions (methods, fees, thresholds).
Scaling / Max Allocation: Real Path vs. Big Number
- Clear, incremental scaling (defined profit targets & min days) beats a flashy Max Allocation you’ll rarely reach.
- Shorter milestones reward consistent returns; longer gates suit patient compounding.
Platforms & Tradable Assets: Execution Fit
- Multiple platforms (MT4/MT5/cTrader/TradingView) = flexibility. Single-platform firms can be fine if execution is stable.
- Broader asset lists (indices, FX, commodities, crypto, stocks) unlock more setups; narrow menus force concentration risk.
Commissions: Quiet Edge Eroder
- Lower per-lot/contract commissions preserve edge for active traders; higher costs can negate a better split.
- When two firms feel identical, pick the cheaper fill—it compounds every session.
Restricted Countries: Eligibility & Payout Practicalities
- Check Restricted Countries first—eligibility, KYC friction, and payout rails differ by region.
- If your country is borderline, choose firms with clear guidance and multiple withdrawal methods.
Pros & Cons: How to Read Them Quickly
- Generous drawdown but stricter news → great for non-event strategies.
- Fast payouts but higher commissions → suits low-turnover setups.
- Big scaling but tight time limits → favors high-activity traders.
Make the Call in 5 Checks
- Model & Time — need speed (instant/1-step) or flexibility (no/lenient limits)?
- Risk Rules — DD & Max Loss align with your drawdown profile?
- Payout Mechanics — first payout timing & cycle fit your cash flow?
- Scaling Reality — milestones you can actually hit?
- Costs & Execution — commissions + platform stability ok for your style?
Then use the table’s Discount link, check Trustpilot sentiment, and Visit website for fine print.
FAQs
What’s the fastest path to first payout?
Firms with early first payout windows (often 7–14 days) and weekly/bi-weekly cycles. Confirm fees and caps.
Which firms suit news/event traders?
Those explicitly allowing news trading or with clearly defined windows. If restricted, plan around releases.
How do I break a tie between two similar firms?
Pick the one with looser Daily DD, cheaper commissions, or simpler payout rules—whichever matters most to your P&L.
