Topstep Review 2026 - The Most Affordable Option
Our honest Topstep review covers their ultra-low $49 starting price, 2-step evaluation process, trusted reputation, and whether it's still competitive in 2026.
Profit Split
90%
Max Funding
$150K
Starting From
$49
Platforms
TopstepX
Key Takeaways
- Topstep has the lowest starting price at just $49/month for a 50K account.
- March 2026 Update: All new accounts exclusively use their proprietary TopstepX platform.
- Shifted to a 1-step evaluation (Trading Combine) with 2 payout pathways once funded.
- The profit split is now a flat 90/10 from day one for all new accounts.
What is Topstep?
Topstep is one of the original prop trading firms, operating since 2012. As one of the longest-running firms in the space, they have built an unmatched reputation for reliability and trustworthiness. Tens of thousands of traders have been funded through their program.
Topstep’s Trading Combine is their signature evaluation process. While historically a 2-step system, Topstep has evolved it into a streamlined 1-Step evaluation. They require traders to show discipline through consistency rules (no single day can make up more than 50% of the profit target).
Massive Change in 2026: Topstep has gone all-in on their proprietary platform, TopstepX. They no longer support Tradovate, NinjaTrader, or Quantower for new accounts. While controversial for some, TopstepX has been heavily upgraded and optimized for their risk management rules.
Pricing & Account Options
Pricing & Account Options (2026 Update)
Topstep offers the most affordable pricing in the industry. As of early 2026, they introduced two paths: the Standard Path (lower monthly fee, but a $149 activation fee upon passing) and the No Activation Fee Path (higher monthly fee, but free activation).
Here is the pricing for the Standard Path:
| Account Size | Monthly Fee | Profit Target | Max Loss Limit (EOD) | Max Contracts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $49 | $3,000 | $2,000 | 5 |
| $100,000 | $99 | $6,000 | $3,000 | 10 |
| $150,000 | $149 | $9,000 | $4,500 | 15 |
At $49/month for a 50K account, Topstep is literally the cheapest entry into prop trading. Use code START20 for an additional 20% off.
How the Evaluation Works
How the Evaluation Works
Topstep uses a 1-step evaluation called the Trading Combine.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Trade the Combine - Hit the profit target with an End-of-Day (EOD) Max Loss Limit.
- 50% Consistency Rule - Verify discipline. Your best day cannot account for more than 50% of the total profit target.
- Pass and Get Funded - Pay the activation fee ($149) or $0 if you chose the No Activation Fee path.
- Express Funded Account - Trade with real rules.
Topstep changed to the 1-Step model to remain competitive while relying on their strict consistency rules to weed out lucky traders.
Payout Policy & Speed
- Profit Split: Flat 90% (the old “100% of first $10K” rule was removed in Jan 2026)
- Standard Payout Path: Request payouts after 5 winning days (Net P&L > $150).
- Consistency Payout Path: (New in 2026) Request payouts after 3 winning days with a 40% consistency target.
- Payout Frequency: Up to weekly
- Minimum Withdrawal: $125
- Payment Methods: ACH, PayPal, Wire
The new Dual Payout Pathway allows you to choose between faster (but smaller) payouts or larger payouts that require higher consistency.
Pros & Cons
What We Like
What We Like
- Cheapest Starting Price - $49/month is unbeatable
- Established Since 2012 - Longest track record in the industry
- Choice of Payout Paths - Standard vs Consistency
- No Activation Fee Option - New tier lets you skip the $149 pass fee
- TopstepX Tooling - Proprietary platform has built-in risk management
What Could Be Better
- No Third-Party Platforms - Forced to use TopstepX (RIP Tradovate/NinjaTrader access)
- No More 100% Split - The first $10K is no longer 100% yours
- Intraday Drawdown on Live Accounts - Max Loss is EOD during evaluations, but switches to Intraday Trailing when you reach the final Live tier
- Strict Consistency Rules - Requires methodical trading rather than home runs
Who Should Use Topstep?
Best for:
- Traders on a tight budget who want the lowest entry cost
- Those who value reputation and longevity in a firm
- Traders who prefer structured evaluation with built-in discipline
- Anyone who wants weekly payout access
Not ideal for:
- Impatient traders who want quick 1-step funding
- Those seeking the highest profit splits (90%+)
- Traders who need the maximum possible funding
Our Verdict
Topstep earns a solid 4.6/5. As the OG of prop trading firms, their track record and affordability remain compelling in 2026. The shift to a 1-step model and the new TopstepX platform streamline the experience, though the loss of third-party platforms and the “100% first $10K” rule might disappoint seasoned users. Still, at $49 to start, it’s arguably the lowest-risk entry point in the industry.
Rating Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Pricing | 5.0 / 5 |
| Evaluation Rules | 4.0 / 5 |
| Payout Speed | 4.5 / 5 |
| Platform Quality | 4.5 / 5 |
| Customer Support | 4.5 / 5 |
| Overall | 4.6 / 5 |
Use code START20 at checkout to save 20% on any Topstep account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Topstep legit and trustworthy?
Absolutely. Topstep has been operating since 2012, making them one of the longest-running prop firms. They have funded tens of thousands of traders and have an excellent track record for payouts. They are one of the most trusted names in the industry.
What happened to the 100% of first $10K profit split?
In January 2026, Topstep removed this promotional split for new users. All new traders now start at a flat 90% profit split from their very first payout.
Can I use Tradovate or NinjaTrader on Topstep?
No. As of mid-2025, Topstep migrated completely to their proprietary TopstepX platform for all new Trading Combines. Third-party platforms are no longer supported.