You have decided you have got what it takes to be profitable as a futures trader, but because you lack substantial capital or funds, or because you want to get paid for your skills, you are looking for the perfect prop trading firm to trade with. A simple Google search is leaving you more confused than you were before the search, and not only are you lost on the best prop trading firm for you, you do not even know what you should be looking for.

If this is you, then this article is for you to help you choose the best futures prop trading firm to start your professional trading career.

Meaning of Prop trading firms

Proprietary trading firms, commonly known as "prop firms," are financial institutions that trade using their own capital rather than client funds. Unlike hedge funds that primarily manage investor money, prop trading firms deploy their own resources across various markets including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. These firms operate with a distinct business model where traders use the firm's capital to execute trades, with profits typically shared between the trader and the firm through predetermined split arrangements. 

The structure of prop trading firms varies widely, from large institutional operations offering traders salaries plus performance bonuses to smaller firms requiring traders to contribute initial capital or complete evaluation challenges. All prop trading firms emphasise strict risk management protocols to protect their capital, often implementing specific drawdown limits and trading rules. For traders, prop trading firms offer the significant advantage of accessing substantial trading capital without risking their personal savings, though the industry can be notoriously competitive with underperforming traders frequently facing termination or greedy traders blowing their account.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Futures Prop Trading Firm

So what are the things to need to consider and check when choosing a futures prop trading firm?

1. Profit Split Arrangements

Profit splits is one of the most critical components of the prop trading relationship, determining how trading profits are divided between traders and the prop trading firms backing them. In the futures prop trading industry, these arrangements typically favour traders significantly, with most firms offering between 70% to 90% of profits to the trader.

Unlike traditional brokerages that generate revenue through commissions and spreads, prop trading firms primarily earn through their percentage of trading profits. This creates a more aligned incentive structure where both parties benefit from successful trading outcomes rather than transaction volume.

Among the leading futures prop trading firms, several stand out for their competitive profit split arrangements:

• Topstep offers a generous 90% profit split for their $100K accounts, combined with a favorable profit target to drawdown ratio of 1:0.50, making them particularly attractive for traders seeking larger account sizes.

• Apex Trading Funding provides bi-weekly payouts with profit splits reaching up to 90%, offering traders frequent access to their earnings.

• FX2 Funding structures their profit splits on a sliding scale, typically ranging from 70/30 to 80/20 (trader/firm), with the possibility of improved terms for consistently successful traders.

• Goat Funded Trader stands out because of its industry-leading profit split arrangements of up to 95%, which is among the highest available in the prop trading space. This exceptional profit-sharing model ensures traders retain the vast majority of their earnings, creating substantially higher income potential compared to competitors. Combined with their on-demand payout system that processes withdrawals within 48-72 hours, Goat Funded Trader has established itself as the best choice for profit-motivated futures traders picking or choosing prop trading firms they want trade with.

When evaluating profit split arrangements, traders should look beyond the advertised percentage figures to understand the complete financial picture. Some firms with seemingly attractive profit splits may impose hidden fees, restrictive withdrawal policies, or challenging scaling requirements that diminish the actual value of the arrangement.

The structure of these arrangements typically involves a pre-determined percentage division of net profits, with payouts occurring on regular schedules ranging from weekly to monthly depending on the firm's policies. Most established prop trading firms maintain transparent profit calculation methodologies and consistent payout schedules, which builds trader confidence and facilitates reliable income planning.

2. Reputation and Track Record Analysis

When evaluating futures prop trading firms, reputation and track record should be your first consideration. Trustpilot ratings can provide valuable insights, with firms like My Funded Futures (4.8/5 from 3,100+ reviews) and Alpha Futures (4.8/5 from 124 reviews) demonstrating strong trader satisfaction. However, be cautious of artificially inflated reviews. Some firms may have too many 5 star reviews that are forced or bought.

Look beyond the ratings to examine specific trader experiences and payout history. Firms like Take Profit Trader and TopStep are highly regarded based on user experiences and transparent policies. Red flags include a high percentage of recent negative reviews, lack of trader testimonials, or absence from trusted review platforms. A firm without established credibility like Funded Futures Network, which lacks FPA reviews and partnerships with regulated brokers, presents higher risk despite positive Trustpilot feedback. Remember that past performance doesn't guarantee future reliability as some previously reputable firms may implement stricter rules that damage their reputation over time.

Goat Funded Trader also excels in this area. With a Trustpilot rating of 4.1 from nearly 3,000 reviews and 68% of traders awarding the maximum 5-star rating, Goat Funded Trader has rapidly built a reputation in prop trading industry despite being a newer addition to the market compared to other competitors.

3. The evaluation process requirements

Futures prop trading firms typically implement structured evaluation processes to assess traders' skills before granting access to funded accounts. 

1.  One-Step and Two-Step Evaluations

Prop trading firms generally offer either one-step or two-step evaluation models:

• One-Step Evaluation: Requires traders to pass a single phase by reaching a profit target of approximately 8-10% without exceeding maximum drawdown limits (typically around 6%). This streamlined approach allows qualified traders to access funded accounts more quickly.

• Two-Step Evaluation: Involves two distinct phases where traders must achieve specific profit targets while adhering to strict risk management rules. The first phase usually focuses on demonstrating profitability, while the second tests consistency and discipline over a longer period.

2.  Common Evaluation Requirements

Regardless of the evaluation structure, most prop trading firms enforce these key requirements:

• Minimum Trading Days: Traders are typically required to complete a specific number of active trading days (often 5-10 days) during the evaluation period. This ensures consistent market participation rather than attempting to pass through sporadic trading.

• Profit Targets: Evaluations include predetermined profit objectives that must be achieved within the specified timeframe, usually ranging from 8-10% of account value.

• Maximum Drawdown Limits: Traders must avoid passing or crossing the daily and overall account drawdown limits, which serve as critical risk management parameters.

• Position Sizing Restrictions: Many firms impose limits on trade sizes to prevent excessive risk-taking, such as maximum lot sizes for different instrument categories (e.g., 100 lots per order for indices). 

• Independent Evaluation Completion: Each trading evaluation must be completed independently without coordination between multiple accounts or traders.

• Server Request Limitations: Technical restrictions may include caps on the number of order modifications (typically around 2,000) to prevent algorithm abuse.

3.  Evaluation Process Components

The comprehensive evaluation process often includes:

• Simulated Trading Challenges. Traders operate in controlled environments that mirror real market conditions to demonstrate their abilities under pressure.

• Risk Management Assessment. Firms closely monitor how traders handle losses and manage risk across various market conditions.

• Trading Psychology Evaluation. Some firms incorporate assessments of a trader's emotional discipline and mental approach to trading under pressure.

Successful completion of these evaluations typically leads to a funded account where traders can begin trading with the firm's capital while receiving a significant percentage of generated profits, usually between 70-90%.

List of futures prop trading firms 

1. GOAT Funded Trader

At GOAT Funded Trader, we pride ourselves on offering the most trader-friendly conditions in the industry. Our evaluation process is designed to identify truly skilled traders while maintaining reasonable drawdown limits. We offer account sizes ranging from $25,000 to $200,000 with an industry-leading 90/10 profit split in your favor. Our platform stands out with same-day payouts, no minimum trading days requirement, and free resets for accounts that narrowly miss targets. Our dedicated support team is available 24/7, and we provide comprehensive educational resources including daily market analysis and weekly webinars to help our traders succeed.

2. TopStep

TopStep has established itself as one of the most reputable futures prop trading firms since its founding in 2012. They offer a two-step evaluation process with account sizes ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. Their monthly subscription model starts at $165 for smaller accounts and increases based on account size. TopStep provides traders with 80% of profits and offers additional benefits like coaching sessions and market analysis. Their platform is particularly suitable for traders focusing on E-mini S&P 500, crude oil, and treasury futures.

3. Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding offers some of the most flexible trading parameters in the industry. Their one-step evaluation process allows traders to qualify for funded accounts ranging from $25,000 to $300,000. Monthly subscription fees range from $147 to $250 depending on account size. They provide a competitive 80/20 profit split and allow trading of all CME, CBOT, NYMEX, and COMEX futures products. Their platform is particularly popular among aggressive traders due to their relatively generous maximum daily loss limits.

4. My Funded Futures

My Funded Futures has gained significant popularity with a 4.8 Trustpilot rating across 3,100+ reviews.  They offer a straightforward one-step evaluation with account sizes from $10,000 to $200,000. Their profit-sharing model provides traders with 80% of profits, and they're known for their responsive customer service. My Funded Futures allows trading across all major futures markets with particular strength in supporting traders focused on index futures.

5. Take Profit Trader

Take Profit Trader distinguishes itself with one of the most trader-friendly evaluation processes. They offer account sizes from $10,000 to $250,000 with an 80/20 profit split. Their platform features no time limits on evaluations and allows trading during major economic news events-a restriction common with many competitors. They support all major futures markets and provide comprehensive educational resources for traders at all experience levels.

6. TradeDay

TradeDay offers a unique hybrid evaluation model that combines aspects of both one-step and two-step processes. Their account sizes range from $50,000 to $200,000 with an 85/15 profit split-slightly above industry average. Monthly subscription costs average $175 for standard accounts. They're particularly well-regarded for their trading platform integration options and responsive technical support team.

7. UProfit

UProfit provides a streamlined evaluation process with account sizes ranging from $25,000 to $400,000. They offer an 80/20 profit split and are known for their clear, transparent rules regarding trading parameters. Their platform excels in supporting traders who focus on energy and agricultural futures contracts. UProfit's monthly subscription model is competitively priced at approximately $150 for mid-sized accounts.

8. Elite Trader Funding

Elite Trader Funding stands out with the most affordable monthly subscription at just $75, making them an excellent option for traders on a budget. They offer account sizes from $25,000 to $150,000 with a standard 80/20 profit split. Their evaluation process focuses on consistency rather than aggressive returns, making them suitable for methodical traders with disciplined approaches to risk management.

9. Legends Trading

Legends Trading offers a comprehensive futures trading program with account sizes ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. Their evaluation process emphasizes risk management alongside profitability. They provide an 80/20 profit split and offer additional benefits including advanced analytics tools and regular market commentary. Their platform is particularly well-suited for traders focusing on index and treasury futures.

10. BluSky

BluSky provides a flexible evaluation framework with account sizes from $50,000 to $300,000. They offer competitive profit splits of 85/15 and are known for their transparent fee structure with no hidden costs. Their platform supports all major futures markets with particular strength in currency and metals futures. BluSky's evaluation process balances reasonable profit targets with practical risk parameters.

Red Flags to Watch For When Picking a Futures Prop Trading Firm

When picking or choosing the best futures prop trading firm to trade with, you need to recognize some warning signs can save you from potential disappointment and financial loss. Here are critical red flags to identify before committing your time and resources:

1.  Vague or Ambiguous Contract Terms

Poorly defined rules regarding trading conditions, profit-sharing arrangements, or account scaling policies should immediately raise concerns. Some firms intentionally keep their terms ambiguous to allow for subjective interpretation, particularly when traders attempt to withdraw earnings. Always request and thoroughly review the complete terms and conditions, paying special attention to sections about maximum drawdown limits, scaling policies, and payout procedures.

2.  Aggressive Pricing and Unrealistic Conditions

Be wary of prop trading firms offering massive discounts (like 80% off) or trading conditions that seem too good to be true. While steep discounts are common in futures trading, excessively easy evaluation criteria often indicate unsustainable business models. Firms offering unusually favorable conditions may be prioritizing short-term customer acquisition over long-term viability. Look instead for balanced trading conditions that reflect market realities.

3.  Instant Funding Programs

Instant funding options, where traders receive immediate access to funded accounts without completing evaluations, often signal problematic business models. These programs have been linked to pyramid scheme structures where new trader payments fund existing trader withdrawals rather than legitimate trading operations. The recent shutdown of several prop trading firms offering instant funding programs demonstrates the inherent sustainability issues with this approach.

4.  New Firms Without Proper Backing

While new prop trading firms aren't inherently problematic, those without broker backing or at least one year of operational history present significantly higher risks. Firms lacking established financial partnerships may not have the resources to honor large withdrawals or weather market volatility. Before signing up, investigate the firm's financial backing, operational history, and early adopter experiences.

5.  Suspicious Marketing Claims

Be skeptical of firms claiming to offer high-frequency trading capabilities without providing detailed explanations of their infrastructure. When questioned about their HFT support for evaluations and funded accounts, legitimate firms should provide specific, consistent answers rather than vague or contradictory responses. 

6.  Poor Reputation Management

A pattern of negative reviews specifically mentioning payment delays, denied withdrawals, or account terminations just before profit targets should be taken seriously. While occasional negative feedback is normal for any business, consistent complaints about the same issues from multiple traders indicate systemic problems. 

7.  Frequent Rule Changes

Firms that regularly modify their trading rules, particularly after traders have already begun evaluations or received funding, demonstrate questionable ethics. These changes often create moving targets designed to make success more difficult or to provide justification for account terminations. 

8.  Lack of Transparency About Broker Relationships

Legitimate prop trading firms maintain clear relationships with regulated brokers who execute their trades. Firms that are evasive about their execution partners or claim to be their own liquidity providers without proper licensing may be operating questionable business models.

Conclusion 

The futures prop trading industry offers tremendous opportunities for traders seeking to leverage institutional capital, but success hinges on selecting the right partner for your trading journey. As the industry continues to evolve in 2025, traders must carefully evaluate each firm's reputation, profit-sharing arrangements, evaluation processes, and operational transparency before making commitments.

When researching potential prop trading firms, prioritize those with established track records of honoring withdrawals, consistent rule enforcement, and responsive support systems. Be wary of firms offering unrealistic conditions or lacking proper broker relationships, as these often indicate unsustainable business models. Remember that the ideal prop trading firm isn't necessarily the one with the lowest entry fees or highest profit splits, but rather the one whose trading conditions, available instruments, and risk parameters align most closely with your personal trading style and objectives. By conducting thorough due diligence and approaching the selection process methodically, you can identify a reliable prop trading partner that genuinely supports your development and success as a futures trader.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a futures prop trading firm?
Proprietary trading firms, also known as prop shops, are specialised entities that trade using their own capital rather than client funds. They provide traders access to significant funding while offering profit-sharing arrangements, typically ranging from 70% to 95% of profits going to the trader. 

How do prop trading firm evaluations work?
Most prop trading firms require traders to pass evaluation challenges that test trading skills and discipline. These typically involve reaching specific profit targets (usually 8-10%) while adhering to maximum drawdown limits (around 6%) and following trading rules like minimum trading days requirements. 

What are the typical costs associated with prop trading?
Prop trading firms generally charge either one-time evaluation fees or monthly subscription costs. For example, a typical structure might include a maximum account balance of $150,000 with a 90% profit split for successful traders, costing approximately $165/month to access the firm's resources and capital. 

Can I trade any futures markets with prop trading firms?
Most futures prop trading firms allow trading across various sectors including equity indices, commodities, and foreign exchange futures, though specific available markets may vary by firm. Always verify that your preferred trading instruments are supported before joining. 

What happens if I lose money while trading for a prop trading firm?
Prop trading firms implement strict risk management protocols including maximum drawdown limits. If you exceed these limits (typically 5-10% of account value), your account may be terminated or reset, requiring you to restart the evaluation process or pay a reset fee. 

How quickly can I withdraw profits from a prop trading firm?
Withdrawal timeframes vary significantly between firms, ranging from weekly to monthly processing cycles. Reputable firms typically process withdrawals within 2-7 business days, though some may offer expedited options. Always verify the withdrawal policy before committing. 

What trading styles are permitted by prop trading firms?
Most firms allow various trading approaches including day trading, swing trading, and in some cases, algorithmic trading. However, specific restrictions may apply regarding overnight positions, news trading, or holding through major economic events. Review each firm's trading rules carefully. 

Are prop trading firms legitimate?
Legitimate prop trading firms do exist and operate successfully, though the industry also contains questionable operators. Look for firms with transparent terms, established broker relationships, consistent payout histories, and positive trader reviews to identify reputable options.