FTMO

FTMO uses a two-step process: the FTMO Challenge followed by Verification. You pay a one-time fee tied to account size, hit the profit target (around 10% in the Challenge, 5% in Verification) and stay within the daily loss limit and maximum loss limit on both phases.

In our tests the rules were enforced exactly as documented, with no surprise breaches. Once you pass both phases you receive an FTMO Account and the one-time fee is refunded with your first payout. The two-step model is stricter than single-step rivals, but it rewards consistency over a single lucky run.

FTMO charges a one-time evaluation fee rather than a recurring subscription, which suits traders who want predictable upfront costs. As of our last test the fee scaled with account size, and the firm refunds it with your first payout — effectively making the evaluation free once you succeed.

Always check current pricing before you buy, as fees and occasional promotions change. Value is strong because the refund and the up-to-90% split mean a single passed account can recover the cost quickly.

This is where FTMO stands out. On a funded FTMO Account you keep up to 90% of profits. Funded traders report payouts arriving within the published window, with a clear breakdown and no hidden conditions.

FTMO has paid out funded traders since 2015, and that documented history is the single biggest reason we trust it over newer firms. Always confirm the current minimum payout threshold, schedule and any first-payout conditions in your dashboard before withdrawing.

FTMO supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader and DXtrade, covering forex pairs, indices, commodities, metals and crypto CFDs. Execution and spreads were stable across platforms in our testing.

If you already trade MetaTrader, the transition is seamless. cTrader and DXtrade are solid alternatives for traders who prefer them. Confirm which instruments and leverage are available on your chosen platform, as these can differ by region and account type.

FTMO enforces a daily loss limit and a maximum loss limit, both clearly defined in the rulebook. There is a minimum trading-days requirement on the Challenge and Verification, and prohibited strategies such as certain forms of high-frequency or copy trading.

These rules are sensible for risk management but can frustrate traders who rely on a single large win or very aggressive sizing. In our experience, sizing down and trading consistently is the path of least resistance. Read the current rulebook carefully — rules evolve.

FTMO is best for disciplined forex and CFD traders outside the US who value a proven track record and clean payouts. If you trade major pairs or indices with consistent risk and can clear a two-step evaluation, the value is excellent.

It is a weaker fit for US-based traders (who are not accepted) and for futures specialists — a dedicated futures firm suits that style better. Risk note: evaluation accounts are simulated until you are funded, rules matter, and every prop firm carries business risk, so never treat fees as guaranteed income.