Two-Step Prop Firm Comparison

E8 Markets vs FTMO – Two-Step Evaluation

Side-by-side breakdown of E8 Markets’ “E8 Classic” and FTMO’s two-step Evaluation program – including targets, risk rules, time limits, payouts and scaling – so you can see which model really fits your trading style.

Positioning

E8 Markets

Profile: Lower total targets, no minimum trading days, fast first payout.

Best for: Traders who want an easier path to funding and more freedom in timing.

Positioning

FTMO

Profile: Higher leverage, balance-based drawdown, strong track record.

Best for: Traders who prioritize trading conditions and brand reputation once funded.

Critical Decision Factors

These are the key points that usually decide whether traders choose E8 Markets or FTMO for a two-step challenge.

1. Profit Targets – Advantage: E8 Markets
Phase E8 Markets FTMO Edge
Phase 1 8% 10% E8
Phase 2 4% 5% E8
Total Target 12% 15% E8 (≈20% less)

With roughly 20% less total profit required, E8 Markets is noticeably easier to complete in terms of pure percentage targets.

2. Time Rules & Flexibility – Advantage: E8 Markets
Rule E8 Markets FTMO
Minimum Trading Days None 4 days per phase
Maximum Trading Days Unlimited Unlimited
Flexibility Pass as fast as you can trade Must spread trades across days

E8 Markets lets you pass in very few sessions if your strategy performs well. FTMO’s minimum day requirement slows the process but may encourage more measured trading.

3. Leverage – Advantage: FTMO
Metric E8 Markets FTMO
Max Leverage 1:50 1:100
Trading Power Standard Roughly double position size potential

FTMO is more suitable if your approach relies on higher leverage or larger position sizing.

4. Drawdown & Risk Limits – Both Strong, Slight Edge FTMO
Metric E8 Markets FTMO
Daily Loss Limit 4% 5%
Max Overall Loss 8% 10%
Calculation Type Equity-based Balance-based

E8 offers tighter limits, while FTMO’s balance-based drawdown can feel more forgiving for certain styles. Many experienced traders prefer balance-based rules for comfort and clarity.

Complete Feature Comparison

Feature E8 Markets FTMO Edge
Phase 1 Profit Target 8% 10% E8
Phase 2 Profit Target 4% 5% E8
Total Profit Required 12% 15% E8
Minimum Trading Days 0 4 per phase E8
First Payout ~8 days ~14 days E8
Maximum Leverage 1:50 1:100 FTMO
Daily Loss Limit 4% 5% Depends on preference
Max Loss 8% 10% Depends on preference
Drawdown Type Equity-based Balance-based FTMO for many traders
Profit Split 80% 80–90% FTMO (up to 90%)
Scaling Compounding growth +25% every 4 months (conditions apply) Different models
Max Account Size $400,000 $200,000 E8
Price (example 100k) $588 €540 (≈$585) Similar
Free Trial Yes Yes Tie

When E8 Markets Makes More Sense

Choose E8 Markets if your main goal is to maximise your chances of actually getting funded.

  • You prefer lower overall profit targets (12% vs 15%).
  • You like the idea of no minimum trading days – pass as soon as your edge delivers.
  • Early payout (around 8 days) is attractive for your cashflow.
  • You want the option to scale to larger accounts (up to $400k).
  • You’re comfortable working within tighter risk limits (4% / 8%).

When FTMO is the Better Fit

Choose FTMO if conditions after funding and brand strength matter more than ease of passing.

  • Your strategy benefits from higher leverage (1:100).
  • You like balance-based drawdown rules and how they are calculated.
  • You value a long-standing reputation and a widely recognised brand.
  • Potentially higher profit split (up to 90%) is important to you.
  • You don’t mind fulfilling minimum trading days and slightly higher targets.

The Only 4 Numbers Most Traders Care About

Metric E8 Markets FTMO Edge
Total Profit Needed 12% 15% E8 (≈20% easier)
Minimum Trading Days 0 8 total E8
Max Leverage 1:50 1:100 FTMO
First Payout Wait ~8 days ~14 days E8

Key question: “Is it more important for me to make it to funded status quickly, or to have the most favourable conditions once I’m funded?”

If your priority is to get funded: E8 Markets usually gives most traders the higher probability of success thanks to lower targets and timing flexibility.

If your priority is conditions once funded: FTMO stands out with higher leverage, balance-based drawdown and a very strong track record.

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