Most retail traders today already understand the fundamentals of prop trading. The challenge has shifted from asking “What is a prop firm?” to the far more practical question: “Which firms are safe, fair, and genuinely compatible with my trading approach?” This guide is designed to help you answer exactly that and to know best options prop firms.
One firm consistently stands out whenever traders discuss transparency, balanced rules, fee refunds, and responsive customer support: OneFunded. In this article, OneFunded holds the top overall position, while the remaining firms occupy specific niches based on account size, evaluation style, and long-term trading objectives.
This is not a promotional list. All information presented in this piece is taken from publicly available resources, official rule pages, FAQs, product descriptions, and broad trader sentiment from established review platforms and forums. Still, it is important to verify the latest details on each firm’s website before making any payment, as terms and pricing may change.
List of Top 8 Options Trading Prop Firms
Below is a list of the top 8 prop trading firms in 2026:
- OneFunded: The easiest and transparent trading rules and affordable entry costs
- FTMO: Advanced trader analytics with long-term reputation.
- CTI: Built-in one-on-one mentoring and education-focused funding.
- The5ers: High scaling plan, allowing traders to grow accounts up to $4M+
- ThinkCapital: Strict automated rule enforcement across all accounts.
- FXIFY: Multiple evaluation models, including static drawdown and instant funding
- RebelsFunding: Highly active trader community, especially through Discord
- BrightFunded: Affordable entry costs for beginners
1. OneFunded (Top Overall Choice)
OneFunded is a UK-registered proprietary trading firm built around a straightforward evaluation model. Traders pay a fee to enter a challenge, trade on a simulated account with live pricing, and, if they pass under the rules, move into a funded stage where performance leads to real payouts. All trading takes place on demo accounts only, and traders do not deposit trading capital with the firm.
Several details make OneFunded stand out:
- A fee refund after the first successful payout on funded accounts
- No time limits on challenges
- A rule set that stays consistent across account sizes
- Strong support through email, live chat, and Discord
Account sizes start from $2,000 and go up to $100,000 in virtual capital, with profit splits going up to 90% on funded stages. For a trader who wants a clear rulebook, reasonable costs, and a stable payout routine, this mix puts OneFunded at the top of the list.
Key Features of OneFunded
OneFunded’s key features include:
- Clear profit split structure, up to 90%
- Refund of the challenge fee once the trader reaches a first payout
- Small starting accounts from $2,000, rising to $100,000
- No time pressure on any challenge phase
- Payout cycle set to every 14 days by default, with a weekly add-on for those who want faster withdrawals
- Support for cTrader and TradeLocker, with MT5 announced on the roadmap
- Flexible rules for strategies: news trading, overnight holding, swing trading, and EAs allowed (with monitoring for abuse).
Account Types and Challenges
OneFunded offers three main evaluation styles: 1-Step, 2-Step, and 1F Limited. Each one targets a different profile.
1-Step challenge
This is the simplest way forward:
- One phase only
- Profit target around 10%
- Daily loss limit near 4% of the starting balance or equity
- Total drawdown around 6%
- No time limit
- Minimum trading days requirement, usually low (for example, five days)
This structure appeals to traders with a tested strategy who prefer a fast route to a funded account and who feel comfortable working toward a single, clear target.
2-Step challenge
The 2-Step challenge spreads risk and pressure across two phases:
- Phase 1: Profit target around 8%
- Phase 2: Profit target around 5%
- Daily loss limit close to 5%
- Total loss limit close to 10%
- No time limit for either phase
- Minimum trading day: 3 days for each phase
The two-step challenge fits traders who prefer slightly lower targets per phase and want the firm to collect more data on their trading before funding. Many traders see this as a calmer path, even if it takes longer calendar time.
1F Limited
1F Limited sits as a higher-level evaluation for traders who already have strong consistency:
- Phase 1: Profit target around 7%
- Phase 2: Profit target around 4%
- Daily loss limit close to 5%
- Total loss limit close to 11%
- Minimum trading day: 2 days
1F Limited model offers lower profit targets per phase than the standard 2-Step. The Risk structure is adjusted for more advanced performance expectations, and it’s often marketed to experienced traders willing to work inside a more technical rule set.
Because this evaluation focuses on serious traders, the firm expects a stronger track record and a stable approach, not experimentation.
OneFunded Data Table
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of OneFunded’s details.
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | 2K, 5K, 10K, 25K, 50K, 100K |
| Challenge types | 1-Step, 2-Step, 1F Limited |
| Profit target | 1-Step: ~10%; 2-Step: ~8% then ~5%; 1F Limited: slightly lower per phase |
| Total drawdown | 1-Step: ~6%; 2-Step: ~10%; 1F Limited: ~11% |
| Daily drawdown | Around 4% for 1-Step, around 5% for 2-Step and 1F Limited |
| Minimum trading days | Low requirement per phase (often around 5) |
| Scaling plan | Multiple funded accounts up to around 200K combined per trader |
| Trading platforms | cTrader, TradeLocker |
| Payout schedule | Every 14 days; optional weekly add-on |
| Refund policy | 100% challenge fee refund with the first payout |
| Fees | From roughly $23 for 2K account; higher for larger accounts |
| Reset options | New challenge purchase once loss limits are breached |
| Unique rule | Fully demo-based trading; no deposits of trading capital by traders |
Pros and Cons
While OneFunded offers impressive features and tools that set it apart, it also comes with a few drawbacks. Let’s take a closer look.
Pros
- Simple, transparent evaluation rules across account sizes
- No time limit reduces pressure, especially during choppy market periods
- Fee refund after first payout improves long-term cost profile
- Friendly to different strategies, including swing, news, and EA approaches
- Strong community support through Discord and a responsive ticket system
Cons
- Some traders prefer live broker execution rather than pure demo
- No automatic scaling ladder that multiplies account size by fixed steps
- Newer firm than long-standing names such as FTMO or The5ers
Customer Experience and Reputation
Public reviews for OneFunded include fast payout processing on USDT and bank transfers, clear communication from support, especially when traders ask about rules, and a helpful dashboard that shows live drawdown and equity
Negative reviews usually relate to misunderstandings around daily drawdown or maximum loss, rather than payment issues. Those cases often receive direct replies from staff. For traders who rank support and clarity above marketing campaigns, this kind of response matters more than promotional offers.
Who Does OneFunded Suit Best?
A trader who:
- Trades gold or major Forex pairs intraday
- Uses clear stop losses
- Aims for a monthly target of around 5–8%
- Has some experience with demo and small live accounts, but limited personal capital
2. FTMO
FTMO is one of the most established Forex and CFD prop firms. Many traders treat FTMO as the “reference standard” for two-phase evaluation. The company runs a mature operation with detailed rule documentation, a stable funding structure, and a proprietary analytics suite.
The firm does not market itself as the easiest path to funding. It emphasizes discipline, precise risk management, and strict adherence to rules. In return, traders receive access to large account sizes, scaling up to $2 million, and an environment that feels more institutional than promotional.
Key Features of FTMO
Below are the key features that make FTMO stand out:
- Two-step challenge model as the core product
- Profit split, usually up to 90%
- Scaling plan that increases capital over time for profitable, rule-abiding traders
- Detailed analytics portal that tracks trade statistics and behaviour
- Multiple platform options: MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade
- Unlimited time to pass each phase, with a minimum of four active trading days
Account Types and Challenges
The FTMO challenge consists of two main phases:
Phase 1
- Profit target: 10% of starting balance
- Maximum daily loss: 5%
- Maximum loss: 10%
- Minimum trading days: 4
- No hard end date, though most traders aim to complete this phase in a reasonable period
Phase 2
- Profit target: 5%
- Risk parameters remain similar: daily and total limits stay in place
- Minimum trading days: 4
FTMO also provides Standard and Aggressive plans. Aggressive options expand loss limits at a higher fee, which encourages larger swings but comes with the same strict enforcement.
FTMO Data Table
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of FTMO’s trading information
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | 10K, 25K, 50K, 100K, 200K |
| Challenge types | 2-Step evaluation (Standard and Aggressive) |
| Profit target | Phase 1: 10%; Phase 2: 5% |
| Total drawdown | 10% (slightly higher for Aggressive plans) |
| Daily drawdown | 5% |
| Minimum trading days | 4 per phase |
| Scaling plan | Increases up to 2M via balance growth milestones |
| Trading platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade |
| Payout schedule | Standard monthly cycle, with a 14-day option |
| Refund policy | Challenge fee refunded with first profit split |
| Fees | From around €89 for a 10K account; higher for larger sizes |
| Reset options | New challenge purchase required after loss breach |
| Unique rule | Comprehensive analytics suite for post-trade review |
Pros and Cons
These are the Pros and Cons of FTMO:
Pros
- Long history and strong reputation
- High transparency on rules and conditions
- Advanced trade analytics that help refine strategies
- Large scaling potential for traders with consistent profits
Cons
- Daily and total loss rules leave little room for aggressive intraday swings
- The evaluation structure can feel demanding for early-stage traders
- Entry fees sit higher than budget-focused firms
Customer Experience and Reputation
Traders frequently highlight reliable payouts over many years, detailed communication on rule breaches and account closures, and regular updates on tools and dashboards
On the negative side, some traders feel that the firm’s strict risk parameters clash with higher-volatility strategies, particularly for news trading or indices. This reflects FTMO’s profile: a prop firm tailored more for professional-style trading than for experimental, high-octane systems.
Who Does FTMO Suit Best?
A trader who:
- Already trades full-time or part-time with serious intent
- Has a backtested strategy with hundreds of logged trades
- Uses consistent position sizing and risk limits
- Wants to grow into a six-figure funded account and beyond
3. City Traders Imperium (CTI)
This firm positions itself as more than a funding source. The firm offers coaching, webinars, and dedicated learning paths along with its funded programs. The goal is to support traders in developing a skill set rather than simply passing a test once.
With scaling potential up to $4 million, CTI stands out among education-focused prop firms. It targets traders who want a structured environment with clear expectations on risk and behaviour.
Key Features of City Traders Imperium (CTI)
The following are key features of CTI:
- Several funding models: 1-Phase, 2-Phase, Instant Funding, and higher-tier Instant Funding Pro
- Emphasis on coaching, webinars, and community learning
- Profit splits reaching up to 100% on certain advanced tiers
- Absolute or balance-based drawdown, helpful for swing strategies
- Clear rule that encourages responsible risk, such as mandatory stop losses
Challenge Types
Two-phase challenges from CTI commonly include:
- Phase 1 profit target: Around 10%
- Phase 2 profit target: Around 5%
- Drawdown rules are expressed on a balance or absolute basis
- Minimum trading days are small, with no narrow deadline
Instant Funding and Instant Funding Pro provide shortcuts for traders ready to start with a funded account right away, once again at higher cost and with more demanding rules.
CTI Data Table
The table below shows the breakdown of CTI’s trading rules and challenge types
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | From around $2,500 to $100K per account, with scaling to 4M |
| Challenge types | 1-Phase, 2-Phase, Instant Funding, Instant Funding Pro |
| Profit target | Often 10% then 5% on 2-Phase; other tracks use adjusted targets |
| Total drawdown | Around 10% absolute or balance-based |
| Daily drawdown | Around 5% |
| Minimum trading days | Low requirement; time flexibility for most programs |
| Scaling plan | Structured ladder reaching 4M in total funding |
| Trading platforms | MT5, Match Trader, TradingView |
| Payout schedule | Weekly or bi-weekly on higher levels |
| Refund policy | Refund on some tracks, tied to performance milestones |
| Fees | From $29 |
| Reset options | Program-specific restarts or new purchases |
| Unique rule | Stop loss required on each trade within a short time after entry |
Pros and Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the benefits and setbacks of CTI
Pros
- Strong education and mentoring environment
- Scaling path to large capital levels
- Absolute drawdown structure supports longer trades
Cons
- Mandatory stop loss rules limit some experimental approaches
- Pricing reflects the educational value, not only capital access
- Program selection needs careful reading before checkout
Customer Experience and Reputation
Traders who choose CTI often mention helpful support staff who give detailed answers, a supportive community and education channels, and positive experiences with withdrawals after stable performance.
Traders who prefer a self-directed environment without coaching might view CTI as too structured; those who want accountability and guidance often see that as a major benefit.
Who Does CTI Suit Best?
A trader who:
- Has some live trading experience but wants deeper guidance
- Appreciates mentorship, feedback, and community
- Trades swing or intraday setups and uses stop losses
- Aims for long-term growth, not short-term challenges
4. The5ers
The5ers has built a brand around patience and gradual growth. Rather than pushing for quick passes, The5ers encourages traders to think in terms of multi-month or multi-year progress, with the prospect of scaling up to $4 million.
Instead of chasing high-frequency challenges, traders work through programs that emphasize capital preservation and controlled growth. The firm offers evaluation paths and instant funding options, providing flexibility for different levels of experience.
Key Features of The5ers
The5ers’ key features include:
- Strong focus on swing and position trading
- Growth plans that gradually raise capital after consistent performance
- Profit splits that can reach 100% on some advanced tiers
- Programs without strict time limits, useful for longer holding periods
- Multiple program families, including Hyper Growth, High Stakes, and Bootcamp
Challenge Types
The5ers’ catalogue changes over time, yet several themes stay consistent:
1-step (Hyper Growth)
- Profit target of 10%
- Total loss limits of around 6%
- Daily limits of around 3%
- No time limits
2-step (High Stakes)
- Step 1: Profit target around 8%
- Step 2: Profit target around 5% and 10% for scaling
- Total loss limits of around 10%
- Daily limits of around 5%
- Minimum trading days: 3 days
3-step (Bootcamp)
- Profit target around 6%
- Total loss limits of around 5%
- Daily limits of around 3%
The5ers Data Table
Here’s a detailed breakdown of The5ers’ features
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | Entry accounts around 5K, with growth pathways toward larger balances |
| Challenge types | Evaluation (High Stakes and others), Instant Funding, long-term growth tracks |
| Profit target | Often 10% early stages, lower in later stages |
| Total drawdown | Around 10% on many programs |
| Daily drawdown | Around 3-5% |
| Minimum trading days | Often low or none; emphasis falls on consistency rather than speed |
| Scaling plan | Path toward 4M funded capital for traders who follow growth rules |
| Trading platforms | MT4, MT5 |
| Payout schedule | Often monthly; varies by program |
| Refund policy | Fee policies differ by track; some include partial refunds or discounts |
| Fees | From around $95 for selected entry programs |
| Reset options | Program-specific restarts or fresh purchase |
| Unique rule | Design philosophy centred around patience and long-term growth |
Pros and Cons
The advantages and disadvantages of The5ers include:
Pros
- Clear long-term growth path with large potential for capital
- Gentle pace for those who trade higher timeframes
- Flexible program selection for different experience levels
Cons
- Slower payout rhythm than more aggressive intraday-focused firms
- Lower leverage on some tracks can limit aggressive strategies
- Catalog of programs requires careful reading; new traders might feel overwhelmed
Customer Experience and Reputation
Traders praise The5ers for stable support responses, clear explanations of growth and payout rules, and reliable handling of withdrawals
However, Many reviews emphasize that the firm rewards patience. Traders who try to treat it as a short-term sprint tend to burn accounts quickly, while those who accept a slower pace report positive experiences.
Who Does The5ers Suit Best?
The5ers is suitable for traders who:
- Trade swing setups on daily or 4H charts
- Hold positions across sessions and sometimes across weekends
- Prefer modest leverage and steady risk over high-octane intraday styles
- Want a realistic path to large capital without constant pressure
5. ThinkCapital
ThinkCapital is closely linked with ThinkMarkets, a multi-regulated broker. This connection allows ThinkCapital to present a prop program backed by infrastructure many traders already know. Rules are enforced through a strict, automated system which reduces room for subjectivity.
Programs such as Nexus, Lightning, and Dual Step share the same goal: To provide clear requirements and a pathway to a combined capital cap of $1.5 million.
Key Features of ThinkCapital
ThinkCapital’s key features include:
- Structural backing from a broker with multiple licences
- Automated enforcement of daily and total loss limits
- Platform choice between MT5 and ThinkTrader
- Profit splits of up to 90%.
- Professional execution environment.
Challenge Types
ThinkCapital has 3 different challenge types:
Lightning (One-Phase Evaluation)
- Profit target: 10%
- Daily loss around 3%
- Total loss around 6%
- Minimum trading days: 3 days
Dual Step Challenge(Two-Phase Evaluation)
- Phase 1 profit target: 8%
- Phase 2 profit target: 5%
- Daily loss around 4%
- Total loss around 8%
- Minimum trading days: 3 days
Nexus Challenge(Three-Phase Challenge)
- Phase 1 profit target: 7%
- Phase 2 Profit target: 6%
- Phase 3 profit target: 5%
- Daily loss around 4%
- Total loss around 8%
- Minimum trading days: 3 days
Other programs, such as Lightning, use different total targets and risk limits, so traders must read each rule section carefully.
ThinkCapital Data Table
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of ThinkCapital’s details
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | 5K, 10K, 25K, 50K, 100K, 200K |
| Challenge types | Nexus, Lightning, Dual Step |
| Profit target | Dual Step: 8% then 5%; other plans use slightly different totals |
| Total drawdown | Around 8% on Dual Step; varies on other programs |
| Daily drawdown | Around 3–4%, depending on the selected plan |
| Minimum trading days | Around 3 trading days on Dual Step |
| Scaling plan | Growth toward $1.5M in combined funding |
| Trading platforms | MT5, ThinkTrader |
| Payout schedule | Fourteen-day payout cycle |
| Refund policy | Fee refund or credit structures tied to program-specific conditions |
| Fees | From $39 |
| Reset options | New program purchase once the rules are broken |
| Unique rule | Restrictions on news trading on some plans unless unlocked by an add-on |
Pros and Cons
ThinkCapital’s Pros and Cons include:
Pros
- Strong underlying broker infrastructure
- Automated rules reduce ambiguity
- Good platform quality through MT5 and ThinkTrader
Cons
- Tight drawdown rules leave smaller room for high-volatility styles
- Add-ons required for features like unrestricted news trading
- Smaller selection of challenge styles compared with hyper-flexible firms
Customer Experience and Reputation
Traders who run accounts with ThinkCapital often highlight a high execution quality on MT5 and ThinkTrader, clear dashboards and trade reports, and fast support through broker-linked channels
Those who prefer more relaxed risk rules might decide to pair ThinkCapital with another, more forgiving prop firm, especially when testing experimental setups.
Who Does ThinkCapital Suit Best?
A trader who:
- Already trades with ThinkMarkets or another large broker
- Uses modest leverage and clear risk rules
- Wants an evaluation linked to a multi-regulated environment
- Places a high value on execution speed and platform stability
6. FXIFY
FXIFY targets traders who want choice. The firm provides a range of challenge types, multiple drawdown styles, and several platform options, including integration with TradingView. At the same time, FXIFY tries to keep core rules transparent enough so traders can map them onto their own methods.
Its offering includes both evaluation challenges and instant funding, which allows traders to skip the test phase in exchange for a higher initial cost and stricter controls.
Key Features of FXIFY
Here are the features that make FXIFY a top trading firm.
- Five major challenge models, such as 1-Phase, 2-Phase, 3-Phase, instant funding, and lightning model for direct funded accounts
- Static and trailing drawdown options
- Profit split up to 90% on funded accounts
- Payouts are made on demand after minimum conditions are met
- Platform choice covering MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView connections
Challenge Types
FXIFY challenge models include:
1-Phase
- Profit target: 10%
- Daily loss limit: 3%
- Total loss limit around 6%
- Minimum trading days: 5 days
2-Phase
- Phase 1: Profit target of 5%
- Phase 2: Profit target of 10%
- Daily loss limit: 4%
- Total loss limit around 10%
- Minimum trading days: 4 days
3-Phase
- Profit target: 5%
- Daily loss limit: 5%
- Total loss limit around 5%
- Minimum trading days: 5 days
Instant Funding
- No profit target
- Daily loss limit: 8%
- Total loss limit around 8%
- No minimum trading days
Lightning Model
- Profit target: 5%
- Daily loss limit: 3%
- Total loss limit around 4%
- Minimum trading days: 3 days
The static drawdown option keeps the maximum loss at a fixed level, while the trailing drawdown moves upward as equity grows. Many traders favour static drawdown for funded stages because it reduces the risk of sudden breaches after successful periods.
FXIFY Data Table
Here’s a summary of FXIFY’s trading details
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | Entry accounts around 5K, larger accounts up to 400K |
| Challenge types | 1-Phase, 2-Phase, 3-Phase, Instant funding, Lightning |
| Profit target | 1-Phase: ~10%; 2-Phase: 5% then 10%; 3-Phase: around 5% per phase |
| Total drawdown | Around 10% (static or trailing, depending on model) |
| Daily drawdown | Around 3–5% |
| Minimum trading days | 3-5 days. Low requirements |
| Scaling plan | Growth path up to 4M capital for consistent traders |
| Trading platforms | MT4, MT5, DXtrade, TradingView |
| Payout schedule | Withdrawals are available on demand after meeting minimum trading conditions |
| Refund policy | Refunds or credits on some programs; terms vary by challenge type |
| Fees | From around $38 for smaller three-phase accounts |
| Reset options | Fresh challenge purchases and occasional promotional restarts |
| Unique rule | Static drawdown add-on for traders who dislike trailing drawdown |
Pros and Cons
Below are the advantages and drawbacks of FXIFY
Pros
- High degree of customisation in rules and account structures
- Instant funding option for confident, well-capitalised traders
- Multiple platform choices for different workflows
Cons
- Its large menu of options can confuse new traders during selection
- Relatively young compared with long-standing firms
- Trailing drawdown on some funded programs raises difficulty for certain strategies
Customer Experience and Reputation
Many FXIFY clients emphasize that they enjoy tight spreads and strong execution through partner brokers, responsive customer support, and flexibility in choosing accounts that match strategy goals
But questions often cluster around the difference between static and trailing drawdown and the impact on risk. Once traders understand those mechanics, most feedback focuses on matching the right challenge to personal goals.
Who Does FXIFY Suits Best?
A trader who:
- Uses different strategies across instruments and timeframes
- Wants direct control over drawdown style and account structure
- Prefer strong platform choice and fast execution
- Plans to grow toward multiple six-figure funded accounts
7. RebelsFunding
RebelsFunding positions itself as a prop firm for traders who value a strong community and manual trading. Programs revolve around a multi-stage training path. After passing a series of training stages, the trader receives a funded RCF account with a high profit split and a growth ladder.
The brand leans into high engagement, frequent communication, and a long-term relationship between trader and firm.
Key Features of RebelFunding
Key features of RebelsFunding include:
- Structured four-stage training path before funding
- Manual trading environment; no EAs allowed
- Profit split range usually 75–90%, depending on performance tier
- Growth plan that increases account size by 25% blocks after sustained profits
- Evaluation and trading on simulated accounts
Challenge Types
RebelsFunding’s training model uses multiple stages:
Corper and Bronze
- Profit target: 5%
- Daily loss limit: 5%
- Total loss limit around 10%
Silver
- Profit target: 8%, then 5%
- Daily loss limit: 5%
- Total loss limit around 10%
Gold
- Profit target: 10%
- Daily loss limit: 4%
- Total loss limit around 6%
Diamond
- Profit target: 10%
- No daily loss limit
- Total loss limit around 6%
Once all stages are complete, the trader moves to an RCF-funded account. Success at funded stages unlocks higher profit splits and capital increases
RebelsFunding Data Table
The table explores RebelsFunding data from trading rules to payouts
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | Multiple training account sizes leading into funded RCF accounts |
| Challenge types | Corper, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond |
| Profit target | Around 10% per stage, except for Corper and Bronze |
| Total drawdown | Around 6-10% |
| Daily drawdown | Stage-specific; relatively strict |
| Minimum trading days | Stage-based rather than fixed; performance over time carries more weight |
| Scaling plan | Growth plan with 25% account size increases once certain profit and month counts are met |
| Trading platforms | RF Trader |
| Payout schedule | First reward request possible after 14 days on the RCF-funded account |
| Refund policy | 100% refund of the challenge fee after making profit |
| Fees | From €23 |
| Reset options | Stage restarts or a new training program |
| Unique rule | Manual trading only; EAs restricted |
Pros and Cons
The advantages and disadvantages of RebelsFunding are:
Pros
- Structured development path encourages discipline
- High profit split progression for successful manual traders
- Community support that helps maintain motivation
Cons
- Longer, multi-stage path before funding
- No EA allowance; automated strategies need another firm
- Shorter operating history than older prop brands
Customer Experience and Reputation
Traders who align with RebelsFunding’s philosophy report positive interactions with support, good communication around rule clarifications, and an appreciated sense of community
Those who prefer quick funding paths or rely on automated strategies will likely step away and select a different firm.
Who Does RebelsFunding Suits Best?
A trader who:
- Trades manually on Forex and indices
- Likes structured goals and stage-by-stage progression
- Wants a clear growth ladder with transparent targets
- Prefers a community where traders trade manually
8. BrightFunded
This firm focuses on making entry-level challenge costs more approachable. Instead of pushing high-priced evaluations, BrightFunded encourages traders to start small, prove a method, and then scale through progressive steps.
The firm keeps its core rules traditional: two-phase challenges with familiar targets and drawdown levels. Advanced add-ons provide extra flexibility on payouts, news trading, or other parameters.
Key Features of BrightFunded
Below are the features that make BrightFunded a top choice:
- Competitive challenge fees for small account sizes
- Two-phase challenges with well-known targets and drawdown limits
- A scaling structure that extends over time for consistent traders
- Use of add-ons for features such as more frequent payouts
Challenge Types
Standard BrightFunded evaluations include:
- Phase 1 profit target: Around 8%
- Phase 2 profit target: Around 5%
- 5% daily loss limit
- 10% total loss limit
- Minimum trading days per phase: 5 days with no tight deadline
- Option to add features via paid add-ons
BrightFunded Data Table
Below is a breakdown of Brightfunded‘s details
| Field | Details |
| Account sizes | Entry around 5K, larger accounts available |
| Challenge types | Two-phase evaluation |
| Profit target | Phase 1: 8%; Phase 2: 5% |
| Total drawdown | Around 10% fixed |
| Daily drawdown | Around 5% |
| Minimum trading days | 5 days |
| Scaling plan | Long-term scaling without a rigid upper cap is listed |
| Trading platforms | cTrader, MT5, DXTrade |
| Payout schedule | Monthly standard, with add-ons for more frequent payouts |
| Refund policy | Some fee structures include partial refunds or credits |
| Fees | From around €55 for small starting accounts |
| Reset options | New evaluation or promotional restarts |
| Unique rule | Heavy use of optional add-ons to customise payout frequency and other features |
Pros and Cons
Although BrightFunded offers amazing tools and features, it still has drawbacks. Here’s a look at its pros and cons
Pros
- Relatively low entry fees
- Traditional rule set that feels familiar to most traders
- Path to long-term scaling from a small starting point
Cons
- Many feature upgrades sit behind paid add-ons
- BrightFunded has a short history and few public reviews
- Limited platform diversity compared with some competitors
Customer Experience and Reputation
Early trader feedback emphasizes quick account delivery, user-friendly dashboards, and simple, readable rule sets.
Since the firm remains relatively new, traders who select BrightFunded often combine it with a more established options prop firm to diversify risk.
Who Does BrightFunded Suit Best?
A trader who:
- Has a small personal budget for challenges
- Wants a traditional two-step model with no complicated features
- Trades with moderate risk on Forex and major CFDs
- Plans to test a method while controlling costs carefully
Full Comparison Table: Top 8 Options Prop Firms
The table below brings everything together so you can compare key metrics side by side.
| Feature | OneFunded | FTMO | The5ers | FXIFY | CTI | RebelsFunding | BrightFunded | ThinkCapital |
| Profit Target | 10%, 8%+5%, 7%+4% | 10%, 5% | 10%, 8% + 5%, 6% | 10%, 10%+5%, 5%/phase | 10%+ 5% | 5%, 10% | 8% + 5% | 10%, 8%+5%, 7%+6%+5% |
| Max/DD & Daily DD | 6–11% / 4–5% | 10% / 5% | Trailing | Static/ Trailing | Absolute | 6-10% / 4-5% | 10% / 5% | 6–8% / 3–4% |
| Payout Split | Up to 90% | 80–90% | Up to 100% | Up to 90% | Up to 100% | 75–90% | 80% to 90% | Up to 90% |
| Payout Frequency | 14 days / weekly | 14 days | Monthly | On-demand | Weekly | 14 days | Monthly | Bi-weekly |
| Challenge Fee | From $23 | From €89 | From $95 | From $38 | From $29 | From €23 | From €55 | From $39 |
| Platforms | cTrader, TradeLocker | MT4, MT5, cTrader,DXtrader | MT4, MT5 | MT4, MT5, DXtrade, TradingView | MT5, Match Trader, TradingView | RF Trader | cTrader, MT5, DXTrade | MT5, ThinkTrader |
| Minimum Days | 2-5 days | 4 days | None | 3-5 days | None | Stage-based | 5 days | 3 days |
| Funding Model | 1-step, 2-step | 2-step | 1-step, 2-step,3-step | 1-Phas, 2-Phas, 3-Phase,Instant funding, Lightning | 1-step, 2-step, Instant | 5-stages | 2-step | 1-step & 2-step |
| Standout feature | Clear rules, refunds, no time limits | Industry reference firm | Patience and growth focus | High flexibility and static DD add-on | Mentoring and education at core | Manual-only and stage-based growth | Budget-friendly entry | Broker-backed and automated enforcement |
| Best For | All-rounders | Professionals | Long-term growth | Scalpers & flexible traders | Swing traders | Community-driven traders | Budget-conscious traders | Rule-focused traders |
FAQs
Which Prop Firm has the Highest Payout Split?
Several firms in this list reach toward the top of payout share. The5ers promotes profit splits that climb up to 100% on some advanced growth tiers. City Traders Imperium lists programs where traders keep the full profit share after specific milestones.
Even so, a headline profit split only matters if rules remain realistic and payouts run on time. A lower split with generous rules often beats a headline 100% split paired with harsh drawdown constraints.
Which Prop Firm Suits Beginners Best?
For those at the beginning of their prop journey, two names are worth a closer look:
OneFunded offers a clear rule set, modest account sizes, a fee refund after the first payout, and no time limits. This structure lowers the psychological pressure and financial risk that beginners tend to experience
BrightFunded offers lower challenge fees than many older firms, with a straightforward two-phase model that resembles what traders already see in the broader prop landscape.
Beginners still need a tested plan. A prop challenge is not the right place for random experimentation. Demo trading and small personal accounts remain the training ground before any evaluation.
Which Prop Firm has the Most Forgiving Rules?
No prop firm truly runs “easy” rules, yet several designs feel more forgiving in day-to-day practice:
- OneFunded and The5ers offer no time limit on many programs, which lowers stress when market conditions are slow.
- CTI uses absolute drawdown for many plans, a structure that suits swing and position traders who keep risk moderate but deal with natural fluctuations.
Traders should compare profit targets, daily loss limits, and total loss limits in context. A modest target and static drawdown, combined with no deadline, usually gives a more forgiving environment than a low fee with high drawdown pressure.
Which is the Most Reputable Options Prop Firm Overall?
Reputation shows up in three places: time in business, review history, and payout track record.
FTMO stands out for age, scale, and visibility. A long record of payouts and tens of thousands of reviews position FTMO as an industry reference point. The5ers follows with a stable presence and strong feedback around support and growth plans.
Newer firms such as OneFunded, Fxify, BrightFunded, ThinkCapital, RebelsFunding, and CTI build a reputation on transparency, public communication, and the quality of their support. Traders often combine one established firm with one newer firm to balance trust and flexibility.
What Platforms do Most Prop Firms Support?
Across this list, a few names are:
- MetaTrader 4 and 5 (MT4 / MT5): Still the core choice for many forex prop firms, including FTMO, The5ers, Fxify, CTI, BrightFunded, and ThinkCapital.
- cTrader: Supported by OneFunded, Fxify, and FTMO; popular among traders who prefer depth-of-market features and a modern interface.
- TradeLocker: Used by OneFunded and Fxify, especially among traders who want browser-based charts.
- ThinkTrader: Main platform option for ThinkCapital programs linked to ThinkMarkets.
Traders usually stay with a platform they already know from retail trading to avoid learning new workflows while under pressure.
What Should Traders Look for When Choosing an Options Prop Firm?
Traders should look for clear and transparent rules, ensuring they fully understand the requirements and restrictions before signing up. It’s also important to confirm that the firm’s trading style, risk parameters, and evaluation model align with their personal strategy.
Cost matters too, so traders should weigh the challenge fees against the overall value and potential returns. A proven payout record is essential for verifying the firm’s credibility, while reliable customer support and access to preferred trading platforms help ensure a smooth and efficient trading experience.
Are Prop Firm Challenges Refundable?
Refund policies differ widely. OneFunded and FTMO, for instance, return the initial challenge fee after the trader completes a successful payout at the funded stage. RebelsFunding, on the other hand, offers fee refunds on some tiers after performance milestones. Other firms use partial refunds, credits, or discounts on future challenges.
Traders should read the refund section in each firm’s terms before purchase. Refunds usually depend on reaching a certain profit level without breaking rules.
Conclusion
The prop trading scene in 2026 provides a wide range of choices, yet a careful look reveals clear patterns. OneFunded rises as the top overall choice for many Forex and CFD traders, thanks to straightforward rules, a fee refund model, strong support, and no time limits. FTMO remains a foundation stone for traders who want a strict, professional environment and a high ceiling on capital growth.
The5ers and CTI stand out for traders who favour long-term growth, education, and swing-style strategies. Fxify, RebelsFunding, BrightFunded, and ThinkCapital fill specialised roles: greater flexibility, manual-only communities, budget entry routes, or tight integration with a multi-regulated broker.The best prop firm for option trader may not suit another. The right match depends on your trading style (scalping vs swing), risk appetite, time available for trading, desire for coaching vs independence, and comfort with newer vs long-established brands. Before you pay for any challenge, take time to read each rule page line by line. Compare and select one or two firms whose rules match your preference, not the other way around.
