Prop trading has become one of the most exciting ways to scale your trading capital. Instead of risking your own funds, you can trade with a firm’s capital — and keep a share of the profits. But with so many firms available, how do you pick the right one?
In this article, we’ll compare FTMO, The5ers, and My Forex Funds (MFF) — three of the most popular prop firms in 2025 — and help you decide which one fits your trading style and goals.
🔹 What is a Prop Firm?
A proprietary trading firm, or prop firm, provides traders with access to capital. Traders go through an evaluation or challenge phase to prove they can manage risk and stay profitable. Once funded, they receive a share of the profits — often up to 80–90%.
🔹 Prop Firm Overview
| Prop Firm | Type | Max Capital | Profit Split | Challenge Time | Max Drawdown |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FTMO | 2-step Model | Up to $200K | Up to 90% | 10–30 days | 10% |
| The5ers | Instant & Challenge | Up to $100K | Up to 80% | No time limit (some plans) | 4–6% |
| MFF (status in review) | 1-step & 2-step | Up to $300K+ | Up to 85% | Flexible | 12% |
⚠️ Note: As of 2025, MFF’s status is under review due to regulatory actions. Always check for updates before applying.
🔹 1. FTMO – The Industry Leader
FTMO is one of the most reputable prop firms in the industry, known for strict risk management rules but generous payouts.
Pros:
Up to 90% profit split after first month
Excellent dashboard and analytics
Strong community and support
Free trial available
Cons:
High challenge fee
2-step challenge model
Strict daily drawdown rules
Best For:
Experienced traders who are disciplined and can pass structured challenges.
🔹 2. The5ers – Low Risk, Long-Term Focus
The5ers is known for its instant funding options and long-term trader development programs.
Pros:
Instant funding available (no challenge)
Flexible growth plans
No time limit on evaluation (in some models)
Conservative drawdown = lower pressure
Cons:
Lower maximum capital
Smaller profit splits than competitors
Best For:
Traders who prefer low-pressure evaluations and long-term growth.
🔹 3. My Forex Funds (MFF) – Affordable & Scalable (⚠️ Status Uncertain)
Before regulatory issues, MFF was a favorite for its affordable challenges and generous capital.
Pros:
Very low challenge fees
Up to 85% profit split
Fast scaling options
1-step and 2-step challenges
Cons:
Regulatory scrutiny (check status)
Support may vary
Less structured than FTMO
Best For:
Budget-conscious traders looking for high funding — if and when MFF resumes operations.
🔹 Key Differences
| Feature | FTMO | The5ers | MFF (Past Offering) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evaluation Model | 2-Step | Instant / 1-Step | 1-Step & 2-Step |
| Max Funding | $200K | $100K | $300K+ |
| Scaling Plan | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Refund on Success | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rules Strictness | High | Medium | Medium |
🔹 How to Choose the Right Firm
Ask yourself:
How much pressure can you handle?
– FTMO has time limits. The5ers is more flexible.
Do you prefer instant funding or evaluations?
– The5ers offers instant funding. FTMO and MFF require passing a challenge.
What’s your budget for the challenge fee?
– MFF (formerly) had the cheapest fees, followed by The5ers.
Do you value brand reputation and stability?
– FTMO is the most established and transparent.
🔹 Final Verdict
| Looking for... | Choose... |
|---|---|
| Industry trust & professionalism | FTMO |
| Instant access & low pressure | The5ers |
| High capital with low entry fee | MFF (if available) |
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on your trading style, risk tolerance, and funding goals. Explore their websites, read the fine print, and start with a demo if possible.
📘 Want More Prop Firm Comparisons?
Check out more in-depth prop firm reviews and strategy guides in the Learn section of ENextMarket.
