For traders seeking a funded account, the two-step evaluation is the industry standard. Both FundingPips and E8 Markets offer robust programs, but their philosophies, rules, and long-term value propositions differ significantly. This deep dive goes beyond the surface to dissect every critical aspect, helping you make a strategically informed decision.
- FundingPips: The “Proving Ground to Partnership” Model
FundingPips structures its two-step program as a rigorous but fair proving ground. The goal is not just to pass but to demonstrate consistency and risk management worthy of a long-term partnership. This is evidenced by their scaling plan that increases not only your capital but also your drawdown limits and profit share, culminating in the “Hot Seat” with a monthly salary. It’s a career path. - E8 Markets: The “Efficient & Empowered” Model
E8 Markets focuses on efficiency and trader empowerment. Their E8 Classic program is designed to be a streamlined, straightforward path to funding. By eliminating friction points like minimum trading days, they empower traders to pass at their own pace. The model is built on a high, fixed profit split and clear, compounding scaling, putting the trader in control from the start.
Phase-by-Phase Objective Analysis
Let’s break down the journey to becoming funded, phase by phase.
| Phase | FundingPips Two-step Evaluation | E8 Markets E8 Classic | Strategic Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 Profit Target | 8% | 8% | Identical starting hurdle. Both firms require a solid initial performance. |
| Phase 2 Profit Target | 5% | 4% | Key Difference. E8 Markets’ lower target makes the final hurdle psychologically and technically easier. |
| Total Profit Required | 13% | 12% | While a 1% difference seems small, in a high-pressure evaluation, it can be significant. |
| Max Daily Loss | 5% | 4% | E8 Markets is stricter. This demands more precise daily risk management but provides a larger buffer from the breach point. |
| Max Loss | 10% | 8% | Major Difference. FundingPips allows for deeper drawdowns, which can be a double-edged sword: more room for recovery but closer to the edge. E8’s 8% rule is a tighter safety net. |
Verdict on Objectives: E8 Markets presents a marginally easier profit target in Phase 2 but enforces stricter overall risk management. FundingPips offers more leeway in drawdowns, which may suit traders who use strategies that involve deeper retracements.
The Deal-Breaker: Time & Trading Constraints
This is often the most decisive factor for traders.
| Constraint | FundingPips | E8 Markets | Impact on Your Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Trading Days | 3 Calendar Days (Per Phase) | None | The Fundamental Differentiator. FundingPips forces a minimum timeframe, preventing a “lucky” single-day pass and encouraging consistency. E8 Markets offers total freedom, allowing a highly skilled trader to pass in hours. |
| Maximum Trading Period | Unlimited | Unlimited | Both firms eliminate the pressure of a ticking clock, a huge advantage over firms with 30-day limits. |
Verdict on Constraints: E8 Markets is the undisputed winner for flexibility and speed. If you want to trade intensively and pass quickly, E8 is your only choice. If you believe a minimum day rule enforces better habits, FundingPips provides that structure.
Funded Account Terms: The Real Earning Potential
Reaching a funded account is just the beginning. The real test is how you are treated as a funded trader.
| Feature | FundingPips Two-step Evaluation | E8 Markets E8 Classic | Long-Term Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profit Split | 60% (Weekly) -> 80% (Bi-weekly) -> 100% (Monthly) | 80% (Fixed) | FundingPips has a vastly higher ceiling (100% + salary), but E8 Markets offers a better starting split without conditions. |
| Scaling Plan | Comprehensive: Account size + Drawdowns + Profit Split all increase. | Direct: Account size increases via profit compounding. Drawdown can also scale. | FundingPips’ scaling is more rewarding and transformative, directly improving your trading conditions. E8’s is simpler and effective. |
| Payout Frequency | First payout on the first Tuesday. Then Weekly, Bi-weekly, or Monthly. | First payout after 8 calendar days. Then Bi-weekly. | FundingPips offers more frequent and flexible payout options, which can be crucial for traders relying on consistent income. |
| Leverage | Up to 1:100 | Up to 1:50 | A major advantage for FundingPips if your strategy (e.g., certain forex or crypto trades) requires higher leverage. |
Verdict on Funded Terms: FundingPips is built for the long haul, with a scaling plan that truly grows your business. E8 Markets provides an excellent, stable, and high-value partnership from day one.
Pricing & Affordability
This is a practical consideration that cannot be ignored.
| Account Size | FundingPips Price | E8 Markets Price | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| $25,000 | $156 | $228 | +$72 for E8 |
| $50,000 | $266 | $338 | +$72 for E8 |
| $100,000 | $444 | $588 | +$144 for E8 |
Verdict on Pricing: FundingPips is significantly more affordable across all account sizes. For traders on a budget or those who frequently re-take evaluations, this cost difference is substantial.
Final Strategic Conclusion: Who is Each Program For?
Choose FundingPips’ Two-step Evaluation if you are the “Long-Term Grinder”:
- You are highly cost-conscious and want the most affordable evaluation fee.
- Your trading strategy requires high leverage (1:100).
- You are motivated by long-term goals and the potential to earn a 100% profit split and a monthly salary.
- You don’t mind the 3-day minimum trading rule and may even see it as a beneficial discipline.
- You want the most comprehensive scaling plan that grows your capital, risk limits, and profit share.
Choose E8 Markets’ E8 Classic if you are the “Efficient Professional”:
- Speed and flexibility are your top priorities. The “No Minimum Trading Days” rule is a non-negotiable advantage for you.
- You prefer stricter, clearer risk parameters (4%/8% drawdown) that provide a larger safety net.
- You value a simple, high, and fixed profit split of 80% from your very first payout without any cycle management.
- You are willing to pay a premium price for the superior flexibility, speed, and risk buffer.
- You appreciate a streamlined, professional dashboard and experience.
The Bottom Line: There is no “best” firm, only the best firm for your specific profile. FundingPips rewards patience and long-term performance with unparalleled earning potential. E8 Markets respects trader autonomy and offers a faster, safer, and more efficient path to consistent, high-value payouts. Choose based on which philosophy and set of rules align with your trading style and career goals.
Beyond the Two-Step: Final Verdict and Strategic Choice
While the two-step evaluation is a core offering, your choice of a prop firm should also consider the bigger picture. Both FundingPips and E8 Markets offer a diverse ecosystem of programs. Your ideal firm isn’t just about one challenge; it’s about the long-term partnership and opportunities it provides.
The Big Picture: Unique Programs & Overall Ecosystem
Here’s a look at what else each firm brings to the table beyond their standard two-step evaluation.
| Program Type | FundingPips | E8 Markets | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Step Evaluation | ✅ (One-step Evaluation) | ✅ (E8 One & E8 Pro) | E8 Markets has more variety: “E8 One” offers trailing drawdown, while “E8 Pro” has a daily profit cap, catering to different disciplined styles. |
| Instant Funding | ✅ (Zero Program) | ❌ | Major Advantage for FundingPips. Skip the evaluation altogether and start earning, albeit with specific rules like a consistency score. |
| Three-Step Evaluation | ❌ | ✅ (E8 Track & E8 Track 1:1) | Major Advantage for E8 Markets. Offers a potentially more gradual and affordable path to very large accounts (up to $400,000). |
| Free Trial / Test Drive | ❌ | ✅ (E8 Markets Free Trial) | Major Advantage for E8 Markets. The ability to test their platform and rules risk-free is an incredible value for new or cautious traders. |
| Customization | ❌ | ✅ (Extensive Customization) | Major Advantage for E8 Markets. You can tailor your drawdown, profit split, and even the profit targets for your evaluation, creating a truly personalized challenge. |
Ecosystem Verdict: E8 Markets offers a more diverse and flexible suite of products. If you value choice, customization, and the ability to test before you buy, E8 Markets has a clear edge. FundingPips counters with its unique and popular Zero Program for instant funding.
The Trust & Community Factor
A prop firm is only as good as its reputation for paying out.
| Aspect | FundingPips | E8 Markets | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trustpilot Score | 4.4/5 (from 22,745 reviews) | 4.3/5 (from 2,641 reviews) | Both have Excellent ratings. FundingPips has a larger volume of reviews, reflecting its massive community. |
| Community Sentiment | Known for a very large, active, and enthusiastic community, particularly on Discord. | Highly regarded for professional service, quick support, and a clean, reliable dashboard. | FundingPips has a “viral” community feel. E8 Markets cultivates a reputation for professional reliability. |
| Payout Proof | Abundant payment proofs and interviews shared across social media. | Strong payment proof shared on platforms like Telegram, with an emphasis on smooth, hassle-free withdrawals. | Both firms have a strong, verifiable track record of paying their traders. This is not a differentiating factor; both are trustworthy. |
Strategic Decision Matrix: Making Your Final Choice
Use this matrix to guide your decision based on your personal priorities.
You Should CHOOSE FundingPips IF…
- Your #1 Priority is: Maximum Long-Term Earning Potential (100% split + salary) or Lowest Entry Cost.
- Your Trading Style: Requires High Leverage (1:100) or you want to skip the evaluation entirely with the Zero Program.
- You Value: A vibrant, large community and a “gamified” progression system that rewards long-term loyalty.
- You Are Okay With: Minimum trading day rules and a lower starting profit split (60%) that you must work to increase.
You Should CHOOSE E8 Markets IF…
- Your #1 Priority is: Maximum Flexibility & Speed (No Minimum Trading Days) or Total Customization of your challenge.
- Your Trading Style: Is disciplined and benefits from tighter drawdown rules or you want to test the platform for free first.
- You Value: A straightforward, professional experience, a high fixed profit split (80%) from day one, and access to larger accounts through three-step evaluations.
- You Are Okay With: Paying a premium price for the above benefits and not having an instant funding option.
The Final, Final Word
Imagine the choice as selecting a vehicle for a long journey:
- FundingPips is like a moddable performance car. You start with a solid, affordable base model. Through your skill and consistency, you unlock upgrades—more power, better suspension, a premium interior (more capital, higher drawdown, 100% split). The journey of building it is part of the appeal.
- E8 Markets is like a luxury SUV off the lot. You pay a higher price, but you immediately get all the premium features: all-wheel drive (safety net), a comfortable interior (excellent dashboard), and the freedom to go anywhere, anytime (no minimum days). It’s a refined, powerful, and ready-to-go experience.
Both will get you to your destination reliably. Your choice depends on whether you enjoy the process of building up your vehicle or you prefer to start your journey in a fully-loaded model today.
Recommendation: If you are still on the fence, the most logical approach is:
- Take the E8 Markets Free Trial. It costs nothing and gives you direct experience.
- If you love the platform and rules, invest in an E8 Classic evaluation.
- If you find you’d prefer a lower-cost option or are drawn to the instant funding concept, then go with FundingPips.
