Proprietary trading firms (prop firms) provide traders with access to company capital after they successfully pass an evaluation challenge.
Instead of risking large amounts of personal funds, traders follow predefined risk rules (drawdown limits, profit targets, consistency rules) and keep a percentage of the profits they generate.
If you’re looking for low-cost funded accounts with high profit splits and strong Trustpilot ratings, this guide breaks down six trusted prop firms with detailed analysis.
1. FTMO – Industry Benchmark for Reliability
Minimum Challenge Cost: ~$155 for $10,000 account
Profit Split: 80% (up to 90% with scaling)
Trustpilot Rating: ~4.8–5.0 ⭐
Maximum Scaling: $400,000+
About FTMO
Founded in 2015, FTMO is widely regarded as one of the most reputable prop firms globally. It offers structured two-phase evaluations and consistent payout systems, making it a trusted choice for serious traders.
Key Features:
- Two-step evaluation process
- 80% base profit split
- Scaling plan up to 90%
- Bi-weekly payouts
- Strong global reputation
Best For:
Traders who prioritize long-term stability and industry credibility.
2. The Funded Trader – Affordable Entry with High Split Potential
Minimum Challenge Cost: ~$59 for $10,000 account
Profit Split: Up to 95%
Trustpilot Rating: Mixed reviews (check latest updates)
Maximum Scaling: $1.5M+
About The Funded Trader
The Funded Trader offers flexible evaluation models including one-step and two-step challenges. It is popular among traders who want lower entry costs and competitive profit splits.
Key Features:
- Up to 95% profit share
- Weekly payouts
- Multiple challenge types
- MT4/MT5 support
Best For:
Traders looking for affordability and aggressive payout structures.
3. Funding Pips – Ultra-Low Cost with High Profit Share
Minimum Challenge Cost: ~$29 for $5,000 account
Profit Split: Up to 100%
Trustpilot Rating: ~4.4–4.7 ⭐
Maximum Scaling: $2M
About Funding Pips
Funding Pips is known for offering one of the lowest evaluation costs in the industry. It appeals to beginner traders and those wanting to test funded trading without major financial commitment.
Key Features:
- Very low-cost challenges
- Up to 100% profit split (based on program)
- Refundable evaluation fees
- No strict time limits
Best For:
Budget-conscious traders seeking maximum profit retention.
4. The5%ers – Strong Scaling & Long-Term Growth
Minimum Challenge Cost: ~$39+
Profit Split: 50% initially, scaling up to 100%
Trustpilot Rating: ~4.8–5.0 ⭐
Maximum Scaling: $4M
About The5%ers
The5%ers focuses on consistent trader development rather than quick challenge flipping. The firm emphasizes gradual account growth and capital scaling for disciplined traders.
Key Features:
- Strong scaling system
- Long-term trader support
- High Trustpilot credibility
- Growth-focused funding model
Best For:
Traders committed to consistency and gradual capital expansion.
5. FundedNext – Balanced Cost & Excellent Reviews
Minimum Challenge Cost: ~$99 for $15,000 account
Profit Split: 80%–95%
Trustpilot Rating: ~4.7–4.9 ⭐
Maximum Scaling: $4M
About FundedNext
FundedNext has quickly built a strong reputation for flexible trading rules and fast payouts. It offers several account models, allowing traders to choose risk profiles that suit their strategy.
Key Features:
- Fast payout processing
- Multiple funding programs
- High customer satisfaction
- Competitive profit splits
Best For:
Traders seeking a balance between affordability and trust.
Also Read FundedNext Competition Rules, Rewards & How to Join
6. Topstep – Established Futures Funding
Minimum Challenge Cost: ~$99 per month (subscription model)
Profit Split: Around 90%
Trustpilot / Reputation: Very strong industry standing
Markets: Futures only
About Topstep
Topstep is a long-established U.S. prop trading firm focused on futures markets. It uses the “Trading Combine” evaluation, after which successful traders receive funded futures accounts and keep up to ~90% of profits. Founded in 2012, it has a proven payout history and a large, active trader community.
Best For:
Futures traders (e.g., CME contracts) who want a highly reputable funding partner.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right prop firm depends on your goals, budget, and trading style.
- If you want maximum trust and reliability, FTMO and The5%ers are strong choices.
- If you prefer lowest cost entry, Funding Pips stands out.
- If you want a balanced mix of affordability and strong reviews, FundedNext or MyFundedFX are solid options.
Always review the latest trading rules, drawdown limits, and payout policies before purchasing a challenge. A high profit split means little if the rules don’t align with your trading strategy.
The best prop firm is not just the cheapest — it’s the one that matches your risk management, discipline, and long-term trading goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the cheapest prop firm available?
Currently, Funding Pips offers one of the lowest evaluation costs starting around $29 for smaller accounts.
Which prop firm offers the highest profit split?
Some programs from Funding Pips and The Funded Trader advertise up to 95–100% profit splits, depending on performance and account type.
Are Trustpilot ratings important?
Yes. Trustpilot ratings help gauge payout reliability, customer service quality, and overall trader satisfaction.
Can beginners join prop firms?
Yes, but beginners should carefully study risk management rules before attempting evaluations.
Do prop firms refund evaluation fees?
Many firms refund evaluation fees after the first successful payout.
