Two of the most popular prop firms in 2026 ? FTMO (the industry veteran) and E8 Markets (the newer challenger). Each has its strengths, and choosing between them depends on what you value: lenient rules or faster payouts?
Here's my honest comparison after passing challenges with both firms hundreds of times.
Challenge Structure Comparison
FTMO (Standard 2-Step)
Phase 1: 8% profit target ? Unlimited time ? 10% total drawdown ? 5% daily drawdown
Phase 2: 4% profit target ? Unlimited time ? 10% total drawdown ? 5% daily drawdown
Profit Split: Up to 90/10 after passing
Scaling: Up to $4M accounts
E8 Markets (1-Step)
Phase 1: 7% profit target ? Unlimited time ? 5% total drawdown ? 5% daily drawdown
Phase 2: None ? single step to funded
Profit Split: 80/20 standard
Scaling: Up to $2M accounts
Total Profit Target: FTMO 12% (8+4) vs E8 7% (single step)
Total Drawdown: FTMO 10% vs E8 5%
Time Limit: Both unlimited ?
Number of Phases: FTMO 2 vs E8 1
Max Profit Split: FTMO 90/10 vs E8 80/20
Challenge Fee ($100K): FTMO ~$549 vs E8 ~$449
Verdict: E8 is easier to pass (1 phase, lower target). FTMO is better once funded (higher split, larger drawdown buffer).
Which Is Easier to Pass?
E8 Markets, hands down. A single 7% target with no second phase means you only need one good run. Compare that to FTMO where you need 8% + 4% ? even with unlimited time, that's more trading days and more risk exposure.
For a challenge passing service: E8 is usually faster and more predictable. Most of my clients get passed within 1-2 weeks on E8 versus 2-3 weeks on FTMO.
Which Is Better Once Funded?
FTMO, by a clear margin. The 10% total drawdown gives you way more breathing room than E8's 5%. And the 90/10 profit split (versus 80/20) means you keep more of your earnings. Plus, FTMO's scaling program goes up to $4M vs E8's $2M.
When to Choose Each
Choose E8 Markets if:
- You want to pass quickly and get funded fast
- You prefer a single-step challenge (less complexity)
- You want a lower challenge fee
Choose FTMO if:
- You want more drawdown room after funding
- A higher profit split matters to you (90/10)
- You plan to scale up to larger account sizes
My Recommendation
If you're using a challenge passing service (like mine), go with E8 Markets. Lower target, single phase, faster results. If you're passing the challenge yourself or planning to trade long-term, FTMO gives you more room to operate on the funded account.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is E8 Markets better than FTMO?
E8 Markets offers lower challenge fees, faster payouts, and a 3-step challenge option not available at FTMO. FTMO has better brand recognition, more trading instruments, and a larger trader community. E8 is generally considered better for value-conscious traders, while FTMO is better for those wanting a premium platform.
2. How much cheaper is E8 Markets than FTMO?
E8 Markets challenge fees are typically 30-50% cheaper than FTMO for similar account sizes. For example, an E8 $25,000 challenge might cost $150 vs FTMO's $225. E8 also offers more frequent promotions and discounts for multiple account attempts.
3. Can I have both E8 Markets and FTMO accounts?
Yes, you can have accounts with multiple prop firms simultaneously. Many traders do this to diversify risk and maximize earning potential. Just ensure you can manage the rules of each firm separately and don't exceed your personal risk tolerance.
Related Guides
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