FTMO vs. The Funded Trader: Which Prop Firm Challenge Is Easier to Pass?
In the world of prop trading firms, choosing the right challenge can make a huge difference in your trading career. Two of the most popular names in the industry are FTMO and The Funded Trader Program. In this article, we’ll compare FTMO vs. The Funded Trader and help you answer the big question: Which prop firm challenge is easier to pass? We’ll dive into their rules, profit targets, drawdowns, minimum trading days, time limits, and what that means for you.
Overview of Both Firms
FTMO has been operating since 2015 and is widely regarded as a leading prop firm. They offer a two-step evaluation process (Challenge and Verification) where traders prove their skills using simulated funds, then move to a funded account. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
The Funded Trader Program (TFT) is another major player in the industry offering several challenge models: Standard, Rapid, Royal, Classic, etc. Their aim is similar: allow you to get funded by passing their evaluation process. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Key Comparison: Rules & Requirements
Profit Targets
For FTMO, the typical profit target in the Challenge phase is 10% of the initial account balance. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} In the Verification phase, it drops to 5%. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
For The Funded Trader, depending on the challenge type: Standard Challenge has a 10% profit target in Phase 1, 5% in Phase 2. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6} Other challenge types (Rapid, Royal) may have less demanding first-phase targets (e.g., 8%). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Drawdown / Loss Limits
FTMO’s rules: Maximum Daily Loss approx 5% of initial balance. Maximum Overall Loss (or Max Loss) is 10%. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
The Funded Trader’s rules vary by challenge model: e.g., Classic 2-Step Challenge: Daily Drawdown 4% (hard breach), Max Total Drawdown 8%. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9} Standard Challenge: max total loss ~12% and daily drawdown ~6%. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Minimum Trading Days & Time Limits
FTMO requires at least 4 trading days in both Challenge and Verification phases. There is no strict time limit for completing the Challenge (you can take as long as you need). :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
The Funded Trader Standard & other models: Minimum trading days are about 3-5 trading days for Challenge phase. Some models recently removed strict time limits (“unlimited simulated trading days”) for certain challenges. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Which One Is “Easier” to Pass?
Now the real question: between FTMO vs. The Funded Trader, which challenge is easier to pass? “Easier” depends on your trading style, risk management skills, and whether the rules fit you. But from comparing the rules, we can draw some insights.
On one hand, FTMO has stringent drawdown rules (5% daily loss, 10% total) and a solid profit target of 10% in the first phase. If you’re a trader who holds high risk trades or lacks discipline, this can be quite demanding.
On the other hand, The Funded Trader offers several challenge models and even has versions with lower daily drawdown limits (e.g., 4%) and lower total drawdown percentages (e.g., 8%) in some versions. Also, the unlimited time models give you more flexibility. That can make The Funded Trader slightly more “forgiving” for disciplined traders. For example, the Classic 2-Step: Daily Drawdown 4%, Max 8%. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
However, there’s a flip side: The Funded Trader’s profit target is still 10%/5% for Standard, which is similar to FTMO. So the challenge is still real. Also, some discount in “ease” may be offset by other restrictions (like allowed lot sizes, style of trading, etc.).
My Verdict: Which to Choose?
If you’re a trader who values stricter rules (which often means better funded accounts, strong reputation) and you have solid risk control, **FTMO** might be the better choice. The strict rules force you to trade like a professional, which is a plus.
If you’re a trader who wants a bit more flexibility, fewer time pressures, maybe you prefer a challenge that gives you more breathing room, then **The Funded Trader Program** might be “easier” for you. Especially their versions with lower drawdown limits and unlimited days.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Passing
- ✅ Know the rules inside out (for whichever firm you choose). Breaking a rule = automatic fail.
- ✅ Use consistent risk management—keeping daily losses well under the maximum drawdown helps.
- ✅ Focus on steady progress rather than chasing big gains; hit the profit target steadily.
- ✅ Choose the challenge type that fits your trading style (swing vs scalping), since limits and allowed strategies vary.
- ✅ Use demo/trial versions if available (both firms offer demo or free trial windows) to get comfortable before committing.
Conclusion
In summary, when comparing FTMO vs. The Funded Trader, both prop firm challenges are legitimate and offer real opportunities. Neither is “easy” in the sense of no effort required—but from a rules-perspective, The Funded Trader might offer slightly more flexibility for certain challenge types, making it somewhat “easier” for disciplined traders. FTMO carries stricter drawdown rules but also holds strong reputation.
Ultimately, the “easier” firm will depend on your own trading approach, discipline, and how well you fit their rules. Whichever you pick, treat the challenge as real trading practice and manage your risk like a pro. Good luck on your path to getting funded!
Updated comparative guide – Written by Jendelatv.id