
Apex Trader Funding Review 2025 – Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons
If you’re looking to become a funded futures trader in 2025, chances are you’ve come across Apex Trader Funding (ATF). It’s one of the fastest-growing prop trading firms and has gained a lot of attention for its high profit splits, quick payouts, and flexible platforms.
But is Apex really the right fit for you? In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know—features, pricing, rules, pros, cons, risks, and real user reviews. I’ll also answer common questions so you can decide with confidence.
Why Traders Choose Apex Trader Funding
In futures trading, getting enough capital is often the biggest challenge. Apex solves this by offering traders accounts ranging from $25,000 to $300,000. You pay a monthly evaluation fee, prove your skills, and if you pass—you get access to funded accounts without risking your own money.
Unlike forex prop firms, Apex focuses entirely on futures markets, which many traders like because of their regulated nature and 24/5 availability.
According to QuantVPS, Apex is currently one of the most searched and visited prop firms worldwide.
Key Features of Apex Trader Funding
Here’s what sets Apex apart:
- Account Sizes: $25K – $300K (plus a static $100K option).
- Platforms: Supports Tradovate, Rithmic, NinjaTrader, TradingView.
- Markets: 46+ futures markets (indices, commodities, currencies, energy).
- Profit Targets: $1,500 (25K account) up to $20,000 (300K account).
- Profit Split:
- 100% of first $25,000 profits.
- 90% after that. (BestPropFirms.com)
- Payouts: Requestable every 8 trading days, usually received within 3–4 days. (LiveStreamTrading)
- Evaluation: One-step evaluation; minimum 7 active days required.
- Drawdown Rules: No daily drawdown. Only trailing drawdown applies.
Pricing & Fees
Pricing depends on the account size and platform:
- Tradovate accounts: $137 – $250 per month.
- Rithmic/NinjaTrader accounts: $277 – $787 per month (includes platform + data fees).
(QuantVPS)
⚠️ Tip: Many traders overlook platform and data fees, which can make Apex expensive if you’re not careful.
Pros of Apex Trader Funding
✅ High profit split – You keep 100% of the first $25,000, then 90% afterward.
✅ Fast payouts – Withdraw every 8 trading days; most receive funds in under a week.
✅ Multiple platforms – Works on web, desktop, and mobile with Tradovate, NinjaTrader, and TradingView.
✅ No daily loss limits – Gives flexibility for scalpers and intraday traders.
✅ Large account choices – From small ($25K) to large ($300K), suitable for different strategies.
✅ Quick funding process – Some traders are funded in just 48 hours.
✅ Strong reputation – 13,000+ reviews on Trustpilot with a 4.5/5 average rating. (Trustpilot)
Cons of Apex Trader Funding
❌ High monthly fees – $137–$787/month adds up quickly.
❌ Hidden costs – Platform and data fees can surprise beginners.
❌ Strict rules – Breaching consistency rules can void your evaluation.
❌ Limited education – Apex doesn’t offer much training; best for experienced traders.
❌ Customer support delays – Some users report waiting 48–72 hours for replies. (Benzinga)
❌ Rule changes – Some complaints about payout denials due to retroactive rules. (Reddit)
Risk Rules & Evaluation
Unlike some firms, Apex requires:
- One-step evaluation – Hit the profit target without breaking rules.
- Trailing drawdown – The account balance must not drop below a set limit.
- Minimum 7 trading days – Prevents passing in one “lucky” day.
- Consistency rule – No single day should make up more than 30% of your profits.
These rules are strict but ensure disciplined trading.
Apex vs. Competitors – Which Prop Firm is Best in 2025?
Apex isn’t the only futures prop firm in town. Let’s compare it with Topstep and Earn2Trade, two of its biggest competitors.
Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Topstep | Earn2Trade |
---|---|---|---|
Account Sizes | $25K – $300K (+ static $100K) | $50K – $150K | $25K – $200K |
Monthly Cost | $137 – $787 (platform/data extra) | $165 – $375 | $150 – $350 |
Profit Split | 100% of first $25K, 90% after | 90% (standard) | 80% – 90% |
Payouts | Every 8 trading days | Weekly | Bi-weekly |
Evaluation | One-step | Two-step | One-step (Gauntlet Mini) |
Platforms | Tradovate, Rithmic, NinjaTrader, TradingView | Rithmic, NinjaTrader | Rithmic, NinjaTrader |
Education | Limited | Strong coaching programs | Strong education & mentorship |
Trustpilot Rating | 4.5/5 (13K+ reviews) | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
Best For | Experienced futures traders wanting fast payouts | Traders who want structure & coaching | Beginners looking for training |
Key Takeaways
- Apex: Best for experienced traders who want fast payouts and big profit splits.
- Topstep: Better if you want coaching and a structured evaluation (good for discipline).
- Earn2Trade: Great choice if you’re a beginner and want educational support.
User Reviews & Reputation
- Trustpilot (4.5/5, 13,000+ reviews): Most praise Apex for fast payouts, reliable accounts, and fair rules.
- Reddit: Mixed. Some users say Apex is “legit and pays fast.” Others claim payouts were denied due to sudden rule changes.
- DailyForex (3.5/5): Appreciates the funding model but warns about evaluation resets and fees.
This shows Apex is generally well-rated, but traders must read the fine print carefully.
Who Should Use Apex Trader Funding?
Apex is ideal for:
- ✅ Experienced futures traders.
- ✅ Traders who want fast funding.
- ✅ Those comfortable with higher fees.
- ✅ Traders who prefer flexible daily trading (no daily loss limits).
It may NOT be the best fit if:
- ❌ You’re a beginner.
- ❌ You want low monthly costs.
- ❌ You dislike strict consistency rules.
Alternatives to Apex
- Topstep – More beginner-friendly, offers coaching.
- Earn2Trade – Strong education programs, lower account sizes.
- Leeloo Trading – Similar futures prop firm, cheaper evaluations.
FAQs About Apex Trader Funding
1. Is Apex Trader Funding legit?
Yes. Apex is a well-established prop firm with a 4.5/5 rating on Trustpilot and thousands of funded traders.
2. How much does it cost?
Plans range from $137/month to $787/month, depending on account size and platform.
3. How do payouts work?
You can request payouts every 8 trading days. First $25K profits are 100% yours, afterward you keep 90%.
4. What’s the biggest risk?
Failing the trailing drawdown or consistency rule. Also, monthly fees can add up if you’re not profitable.
5. Is it beginner-friendly?
Not really. Apex is better for experienced futures traders. Beginners may prefer Earn2Trade or Topstep.
6. What markets can I trade?
Futures across indices (like E-mini S&P 500), commodities (gold, oil), currencies, and more.
Final Verdict
Apex Trader Funding is a powerful option for futures traders in 2025. It offers:
- High profit splits (up to 100%).
- Fast payouts (every 8 days).
- Flexible platform choices.
But it also comes with high monthly fees and strict rules.
If you’re a skilled, disciplined futures trader, Apex can be one of the most rewarding prop firms to scale your career. But if you’re just starting out, you may find the costs and rules overwhelming.
Pro Tip: Start small (like the $25K account), test their system, and scale only if you’re consistent.