In the Apex vs Funded Trading Plus comparison, the main difference lies in tradable assets and drawdown rules. As of May 2026, Apex leads futures trading with both Intraday and End-of-Day (EOD) trailing drawdowns. Meanwhile, Funded Trading Plus (FTP) focuses on Forex and CFDs, using trailing drawdowns and static balance-based drawdown for its evaluations.
This H2T Funding guide breaks down their latest evaluation phases, payout structures, and specific trading rules. We provide a direct, data-driven comparison to help you quickly choose the right prop firm for your risk management strategy.
Key takeaways
- Apex is the premier platform for aggressive futures scaling, supporting native copy trading for up to 20 accounts and offering maximum profit retention.
- Funded Trading Plus (FTP) is a highly flexible environment for Forex and CFD traders, providing instant funding and safer drawdown rules for long-term growth.
- Apex utilizes strict trailing drawdown mechanics (Intraday or EOD) for fast-paced trading, while FTP offers a static balance-based system that provides more breathing room.
- FTP removes psychological pressure with a no-time-limit policy and 24/7 live support, whereas Apex focuses on high-speed evaluations that can be passed in just 1 day.
- Choose Apex if you are a high-precision scalper or intraday trader specializing in futures and have the ability to scale multiple accounts via copy trading.
- Choose Funded Trading Plus if you are a swing trader or a conservative beginner preferring Forex and CFDs, safer static drawdowns, and a stress-free environment with no expiration dates or time pressure.
1. At-a-glance: Apex vs Funded Trading Plus comparison table
Apex caters strictly to futures traders with a 1-step evaluation, a 30-day time limit, and option trailing drawdowns. Funded Trading Plus offers a more flexible environment for Forex and CFD traders. They provide 1-step, 2-step, and instant funding models with no time limits, flexible drawdown types, and allow overnight holding.
| Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Funded Trading Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Primary assets | Futures | Forex, indices, metals, crypto |
| Funding models | 1‑step evaluation | 1‑step, 2‑step, instant funding |
| Account size | $25K – $150K | $5K – $200K |
| Profit target | 6% | 7% – 10% |
| Time limit | 30 days | No time limit |
| Minimum Trading Days | None | None |
| Drawdown type | EOD Trailing and Intraday Trailing | Trailing/ Static drawdown, depending on the program |
| Profit split | 100% | 80 % – 100% based on program & add‑on |
| News trading | Allowed | Allowed |
| Overnight holding | Prohibited (All trades must be closed before 4:59 PM ET) | Allowed (As of 2026) |
| Platforms | Rithmic, Tradovate, NinjaTrader | MT5, cTrader, MatchTrader, DXTrade |
| Trustpilot score* | 4.4/5 from 19 k+ reviews (updated in May, 2026) | 4.4/5 from 2,6 k+ reviews (updated in May, 2026) |
Disclaimer: Rules, pricing, and trading conditions may change over time. Traders should always verify the latest terms directly on the official Apex vs Funded Trading Plus websites before purchasing any challenge.
Apex Trader Funding
#1
Account Types
1-step
Trading Platforms
Tradovate, Rithmic, WealthCharts
Profit Target
6%
Our take on Apex Trader Funding
Apex Trader Funding is a U.S.-based proprietary trading firm that has carved out a dominant position in the Futures funding space. Their standout feature is a simple 1-step evaluation process with 100% profit split, making it attractive to futures traders looking for a streamlined path to a funded account.
With a strong reputation in the futures community, Apex regularly runs deep discounts (often 80–90% off evaluation fees), making it one of the most affordable options for new entrants.
The firm allows news trading, overnight holding, and provides access through platforms like Rithmic, Tradovate, and NinjaTrader, a combination that caters well to experienced futures traders.
However, its exclusive focus on futures can be limiting for those looking to trade forex, crypto, or CFDs. Additionally, the trailing drawdown model, where the allowed loss threshold moves up with unrealized gains, requires careful position sizing and consistent profit-taking to avoid account termination.
| 💳 Challenge Fee | $199 – $799 |
| 👥 Account Types | 1-step |
| 💰 Profit Split | 100% |
| 💵 Account Size | $25K – $150K |
| ⏱️ Time Limit | 30 days |
| 🎯 Profit Target | 6% |
| 📊 Trading Platforms | Tradovate, Rithmic, WealthCharts |
| 🛍️ Asset Types | Equity Indices, Currencies, Commodities, Interest Rates, Crypto |
Funded Trading Plus
#2
Account Types
1-Step, 2-Step, and Instant Funding
Trading Platforms
MT5, cTrader, Match Trader, DXTrade
Profit Target
5% – 10%
Our take on Funded Trading Plus
Funded Trading Plus is a UK‑based proprietary trading firm known for its flexible funding programs and broad asset class support, including forex, indices, commodities, and crypto CFDs.
The firm sets itself apart by offering not just one, but three funding models: 1‑step, 2‑step, and instant funding, making it suitable for both cautious traders who prefer structured evaluations and aggressive traders looking to bypass the challenge phase.
FTP supports a wide range of trading platforms such as MT5, cTrader, DXtrade, and MatchTrader, allowing traders to stay within familiar interfaces and strategies. However, the firm’s wide range of options can also be overwhelming for newcomers, and evaluation fees may be higher if promotions are not active. Understanding the nuances between each model is crucial to avoiding costly missteps.
| 💳 Challenge Fee | $119 – $4,500 |
| 👥 Account Types | 1-Step, 2-Step, and Instant Funding |
| 💰 Profit Split | 80% – 100% |
| 💵 Account Size | $5K – $200K |
| ⏱️ Time Limit | No time limit |
| 🎯 Profit Target | 5% – 10% |
| 📊 Trading Platforms | MT5, cTrader, Match Trader, DXTrade |
| 🛍️ Asset Types | Forex, Indices, Commodities, Metals, Crypto |
Read more:
2. Apex vs Funded Trading Plus: A detailed comparison
Choosing between Apex and Funded Trading Plus requires more than just knowing their names; you need to understand the rules, platforms, and financial frameworks that will shape your trading experience.
In this section, we’ll break down every essential element side by side, so you can confidently decide which firm aligns best with your strategy and expectations.
2.1. Funding models & core evaluation rules
Apex offers a lightning-fast, single-step path for futures traders, whereas FTP provides multiple evaluation models (1-step, 2-step, and Instant) tailored to different risk appetites in the Forex and CFD markets.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of how their account models and core trading rules compare:
| Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Funded Trading Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Tradable Assets | Futures | Forex, Indices, Commodities, and Crypto (CFDs) |
| Available Models | 1-Step Evaluation only. | 1-Step, 2-Step, and Instant Funding. |
| Profit Target | 6% across all account sizes (e.g., $6,000 on a $100K account). | 10% (1-Step Express) 7% per phase (2-Step Classic) None (Instant Funding) |
| Drawdown Mechanics | Trailing Drawdown. You must choose between an Intraday Trail (tracks open profits) or an EOD Trail. | Varies by program. Trailing drawdown for 1-Step/Instant, but a much safer Static Balance-Based drawdown for the 2-Step. |
| Daily Loss Limit | Depends on the rule type. No daily limit on the Intraday Trail; strict limit applied to the EOD Trail. | Strictly enforced (4% to 6%). Based on the starting balance, depending on the program. |
| Time Constraints | Min 1 day / Max 30 days. You can pass in a single day, but evaluation accounts typically expire after 30 days. | Unlimited time. No max days to pass, but the account will expire if left inactive for 30 consecutive days. |
2.2. Evaluation cost, payouts & profit split
Apex Trader Funding stands out with an industry-leading 100% profit split and reliable weekly payouts. In contrast, Funded Trading Plus offers a wider range of entry costs and ultra-fast withdrawals starting on Day 0.
| Financial aspect | Apex Trader Funding | Funded Trading Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation cost | $199 – $799 | $89 – $4,499 |
| Profit split | 100% | Starts at 80% or 90% (add-on), and scale up to 100% |
| Payout frequency | Weekly (Subject to Safety Net buffer and consistency rules) | Day 0, then every 7 days (1-step and Instant programs), or every 10 days (2-step) |
| Payout method | Plane or ACH direct deposit | Cryptocurrency and bank transfers |
2.3. Trading style flexibility
While both Apex and Funded Trading Plus allow news trading and weekday overnight holding, they take completely opposite stances on copy trading and strictly prohibit holding any trades over the weekend.
| Trading rule | Apex Trader Funding | Funded Trading Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Is news trading allowed? | Yes. Fully allowed. | Yes. Allowed, subject to their transparent risk review policy. |
| Holding overnight? | No. | Yes. Allowed during regular weekdays. |
| Holding over the weekend? | No. All positions and pending orders must be closed by 4:59 PM (ET) on Friday. | No. All positions must be closed by 4:30 PM (EST) on Friday to avoid slippage. |
| Copy trading allowed? | Yes. Highly encouraged. You can use native trade copiers to manage up to 20 accounts simultaneously. | No. Strictly prohibited. Having the same positions open across multiple accounts will result in nullified profits. |
2.4. Trading platforms & tools
Platform compatibility is crucial, especially for traders using automation, EAs, or specific charting tools. Apex focuses on futures trading, offering access through professional platforms like Rithmic, Tradovate, and NinjaTrader.
Funded Trading Plus (FTP), on the other hand, supports popular CFD trading platforms such as MT5, cTrader, MatchTrader, and DXTrade, giving traders more flexibility depending on their preferred setup.
| Platform | Apex Trader Funding | Funded Trading Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Rithmic / Tradovate | Supported (primary connection) | Not supported |
| NinjaTrader | Supported (via Rithmic) | Not supported |
| WealthCharts | Supported | Not supported |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | Not supported | Supported (Not for U.S. traders) |
| cTrader | Not supported | Supported (Not for U.S. traders) |
| MatchTrader | Not supported | Supported |
| DXTrade | Not supported | Supported |
2.5. Reputation & customer support (Trustpilot score & service quality)
Apex has built a strong reputation as one of the most prominent futures funding firms in the U.S. With a 4.4-star Trustpilot score based on over 19,000 reviews, the platform is frequently praised for its efficient payouts, streamlined processes, and consistency in handling high volumes of funded accounts.
Funded Trading Plus, while smaller in scale, has built a reputation for exceptional service quality. With a Trustpilot rating of approximately 4.4 out of 5, based on approximately 3,000 reviews, FTP is widely appreciated for its responsive live chat, direct communication from founders, and fast turnaround on both support and payouts.
Here’s a summary comparison of how both firms rank in terms of public reputation and service quality:
| Aspect | Apex Trader Funding | Funded Trading Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Trustpilot rating | 4.4/5 (19,000+ reviews) | 4.4/5 (3,000+ reviews) |
| Support channels | Email ticket system, Discord community | 24/7 live chat, email, and Discord community |
| Support responsiveness | Moderate (typically same-day or within 48 hours) | High (often replies within minutes on live chat) |
| Strengths highlighted by users | Efficient payouts, consistency under load | Personal support, fast communication, and clear trading rules |
| Common user concerns | Delays during platform outages (e.g., Tradovate downtime) | Still relatively new; limited track record compared to Apex |
Both firms score well in reputation and customer care, but they serve slightly different trader profiles. Apex prioritizes scalability and infrastructure, while Funded Trading Plus emphasizes human touch and real-time assistance.
3. Apex vs Funded Trading Plus Reddit and Trustpilot reviews
As of 7 May, 2026, both firms hold an “Excellent” 4.4-star rating on Trustpilot, reflecting high user satisfaction across the board. In contrast, Apex Trader Funding leads in sheer volume with over 19,000 reviews; Funded Trading Plus stands out for superior customer care, replying to 73% of negative feedback compared to Apex’s 11%.
On Reddit, traders like 80sCrckbaby highlight Funded Trading Plus for 3-day payout system and attractive scaling plan. These features make it a popular choice for those seeking fast liquidity and long-term account growth without the extended wait times common in traditional prop firms.
Conversely, some community members express concerns about FTP’s evolving rules, specifically the addition of consistency requirements and trailing drawdowns. Experienced traders advise beginners to meticulously compare commissions and drawdown types, noting that firms can look good on paper while having tricky execution rules.
While Apex is praised for its massive discounts and market dominance in futures, Funded Trading Plus earns points for transparency and support. Social proof suggests that Apex suits high-volume futures traders, whereas FTP is favored by those prioritizing active communication and flexible Forex/CFD trading environments.
4. Apex vs Funded Trading Plus: Which prop firm is easier to pass?
Based on my experience testing both platforms, Apex Trader Funding is easier to pass quickly due to its low 6% profit target, but its trailing drawdown is popular for being difficult to manage. Funded Trading Plus (FTP) is objectively easier for long-term consistency because it offers unlimited time and a safer Static Balance-Based drawdown on its 2-Step program.
Based on our testing, here is why one might feel easier than the other:
At first glance, Apex appears mathematically easier. You only need to hit a 6% profit target and can pass the evaluation in a single day. If you choose the Intraday Trail account, there is no daily loss limit to worry about.
However, this setup is a double-edged sword. The trailing drawdown constantly chases your highest open equity. If a trade goes deeply into profit but retraces before you close it, you could fail the account without ever hitting your initial stop loss. This makes Apex ideal for high-precision scalpers who take profits quickly, but extremely punishing for swing traders.
FTP provides a much more forgiving environment for beginners and swing traders. While the profit target might be higher (10% on the 1-Step, or 7% on the 2-Step), the lack of a 30-day time limit completely removes psychological pressure.
More importantly, if you choose the 2-Step Classic program, you benefit from an 8% Static Balance-Based drawdown. Your max loss limit does not move up as you make money. This gives your trades the crucial breathing room needed to survive normal market pullbacks without triggering a technical failure.
So, easy is subjective to your strategy. If you rely on speed, high leverage, and rapid profit-taking in the futures market, Apex is your best bet. But if you want a stable, stress-free evaluation where your drawdown stays firmly in place, the Funded Trading Plus 2-Step Classic is our top recommendation for long-term success.
5. The verdict: Which is better, Apex Trader Funding or Funded Trading Plus?
When comparing two strong contenders like Apex Trader Funding and Funded Trading Plus, it’s important to understand that there is no universally “better” choice. Each prop firm is built around a different philosophy, tailored for distinct trading styles, risk tolerances, and platform preferences.
I recommend that you use the checklist below to finalize your decision.
You should choose Apex Trader Funding if…
- You are a dedicated futures trader and feel comfortable with platforms like NinjaTrader or Tradovate.
- You prefer a simple, one-step evaluation process with 100% profit share.
- You are price-sensitive and want to benefit from regular 80–90% discounts.
- You want to use native trade copiers to manage up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously.
- You value consistent infrastructure over real-time support availability.
You should choose Funded Trading Plus if…
- You want the flexibility to trade a wide variety of assets like Forex, Indices, and Crypto.
- You prefer using popular platforms like MT5, cTrader, MatchTrader, or DXTrade.
- You prefer safer drawdown options (static or trailing, depending on plan).
- You’re interested in instant funding options to skip evaluations entirely.
- You want 24/7 support and transparency from a hands-on, responsive team.
6. FAQs
Funded Trading Plus (FTP) is generally easier and less stressful for most traders because it offers unlimited trading days and a safer Static Balance-Based drawdown (on its 2-Step plan). Apex is faster (1-day pass, 6% target) but much harder to manage due to its strict trailing drawdown that constantly tracks your open profits.
Funded Trading Plus is the fastest. You can request your first payout on Day 0 (immediately after making a profit on 1-Step and Instant accounts), then every 7 to 10 days. Apex processes payouts weekly, but you must first meet its strict consistency rules and minimum trading day requirements.
Yes, FTP applies a trailing drawdown to its 1-Step Express and Instant Funding accounts. If you want to avoid trailing drawdowns, you should choose their 2-Step Classic model, which uses a safer Static Balance-Based drawdown.
No, Apex only funds Futures trading. If you want to trade Forex, you’ll need to choose a firm like Funded Trading Plus that supports multiple asset classes.
Yes, Apex requires a Performance Account (PA) activation fee once you get funded, which is a one-time fee ranging from $89 to $159, depending on your account size. In contrast, Funded Trading Plus charges a one-time upfront fee; there are no hidden activation, monthly data, or platform fees after you pass the evaluation.
7. Conclusion
In the comparison of Apex vs Funded Trading Plus, there is no universal winner; only the firm that best aligns with your trading style and strategic needs. Apex Trader Funding excels in its simplicity, aggressive discounts, and structured futures programs, making it ideal for traders who are confident with trailing drawdowns and committed to futures as an asset class.
On the other hand, Funded Trading Plus delivers exceptional flexibility, supporting multiple asset classes, various funding models, and a user-first support experience that many beginners and diversified traders will appreciate.
The key is to understand what you value most:
- Cost efficiency, simplicity, and a clear-cut structure? Apex is likely the better fit.
- Platform variety, drawdown flexibility, and broader asset exposure? FTP could be your ideal match.
Choosing the right prop firm is a foundational decision for any serious trader. As you weigh your options between Apex vs Funded Trading Plus, we encourage you to explore more of H2T Funding’s in-depth comparisons and insights. Our content is designed to help you navigate the funded trading landscape with confidence, no noise, no bias, just clarity.
