Head-to-head comparison · 2026
E8 Markets vs Topstep
Side-by-side on the metrics that actually matter: true cost to funded, drawdown type, profit split and payout speed.
Market
Forex / CFD
Futures
Founded
2021
2012
Total cost to funded
Best$160
$198
Eval cost
$160
$49
Activation fee
-
$149
Pricing model
One-time
Monthly sub
Challenge type
1-Step
1-Step
Drawdown type
EOD
EOD
Max profit split
80%
Best90%
First profit
80% split (Signature)
90/10 from day one
Payout speed
First payout in 3 days
Weekly
Max account
Best$500K
$150K
Consistency rule
None on eval, 35% funded
40% rule
News trading
Allowed
Restricted
Platforms
cTraderMT5TradeLocker
NinjaTraderTradovateTradingViewTopstepX
Strengths & watch-outs
E8 Markets
Strengths
- One-time fee, no activation fee
- One phase, can pass in a single day
- First payout possible after 3 days
Watch-outs
- 80% split on Signature, lower than most
- 35% consistency rule once funded
- $1,000 daily pause on the funded account
Topstep
Strengths
- NFA-registered, owns its brokerage
- EOD drawdown is forgiving
- Established since 2012
Watch-outs
- No swing trading
- 40% consistency rule
- Payout caps per cycle
🐨 PropKoala verdict
E8 Markets is cheaper to get funded at $160 total. Topstep offers a higher max split at 90%. Both use EOD or static drawdown, a plus for both.
This verdict is generated from our verified data. Always check each firm's current terms before purchasing.
Figures are list prices for the 50K account, last updated Sep 2026. Verify all details directly with each firm before purchasing. PropKoala may earn affiliate commissions. Trading involves substantial risk.