EntryLab
Head-to-Head

E8 Markets vs Smart Trader Funds

Two prop firms compared on funding, profit splits, challenge rules, and payouts.

Last updated: March 21, 2026

E8 Markets

E8 Markets

9.0/10

★ Winner
vs
Smart Trader Funds

Smart Trader Funds

8.4/10

Quick Verdict

E8 Markets wins this comparison 5 out of 6 categories.

Our analysts reviewed both options across pricing, reputation, and trading conditions. E8 Markets came out ahead based on our scoring criteria. Read each category below for the full breakdown.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature
WinnerE8 Markets
Smart Trader Funds
Our Rating9.0/108.4/10
Profit Split100%70–90%
Max Funding$1M$300K
Evaluation Fee$From $38 to $750+$$99 (10k account)
Max Drawdown8–10%6–10%
PayoutsOn DemandBi-weekly
1

Pricing

Smart Trader Funds wins

On pricing, Smart Trader Funds offers better value. Its challenge fee starts at N/A, which is lower than E8 Markets's From $38 to $750+. For traders watching their costs, Smart Trader Funds represents a more affordable path to funded trading.

E8 MarketsE8 MarketsFrom $38 to $750+
VS
Smart Trader FundsSmart Trader Funds$99 (10k account)
✓ WINS
2

Drawdown Rules

E8 Markets applies more lenient drawdown rules, giving traders more room to manage losing periods. Its daily drawdown limit is 5% (Classic) / Customisable (E8 One) and maximum drawdown is 8-10% (Classic) / Customisable (E8 One). By contrast, Smart Trader Funds enforces a N/A daily limit and N/A max, which is stricter and can lead to more failed challenges.

E8 MarketsE8 Markets8-10% (Classic) / Customisable (E8 One)
≡ DRAW
VS
Smart Trader FundsSmart Trader Funds6-10% (varies by programme)
≡ DRAW
3

Trading Platforms

E8 Markets wins

E8 Markets supports more trading platforms, giving traders greater choice in how they execute their strategy. It offers Match Trader, cTrader, TradeLocker, while Smart Trader Funds offers standard platform access.

E8 MarketsE8 Markets
✓ WINS
VS
Smart Trader FundsSmart Trader Funds
4

Reputation & Trust

E8 Markets wins

E8 Markets has built a stronger reputation among funded traders. With an EntryLab rating of 4.50/10, it outperforms Smart Trader Funds, which scores 4.20/10 on our platform. Reputation matters especially in the prop trading space where payout reliability is paramount.

E8 MarketsE8 Markets4.50
✓ WINS
VS
Smart Trader FundsSmart Trader Funds4.20
5

Scaling & Max Funding

E8 Markets wins

E8 Markets offers higher maximum funding, making it the better choice for traders looking to scale up. Funded accounts can reach $1,000,000, compared to Smart Trader Funds's maximum of N/A. For serious traders focused on growing their account size, E8 Markets has the edge.

E8 MarketsE8 Markets$1,000,000
✓ WINS
VS
Smart Trader FundsSmart Trader Funds$300,000
6

Profit Split & Payouts

E8 Markets wins

E8 Markets offers a superior profit-sharing arrangement. Traders keep up to 80-100% of profits, with payouts On demand (after 14 days). Smart Trader Funds offers N/A with standard payouts, which is less favourable for traders maximising their earnings.

E8 MarketsE8 Markets80-100%
✓ WINS
VS
Smart Trader FundsSmart Trader Funds70% (Fast Track), 80-90% (Regular/Pro)
7

Challenge Structure

E8 Markets wins

E8 Markets provides more flexibility in how traders can get funded. It offers {"E8 One (1-Step)","E8 Classic (2-Step)","ELEV8 (2-Step + Scaling)"}, compared to Smart Trader Funds's standard evaluation. With a profit target of 8% (E8 One), 8% + 5% (Classic), ~16% (ELEV8), E8 Markets also sets a more achievable bar for traders looking to pass their evaluation.

E8 MarketsE8 Markets
✓ WINS
VS
Smart Trader FundsSmart Trader Funds

Our Pick

E8 Markets Wins This Round

Based on our side-by-side analysis, E8 Markets edges ahead in this matchup. Get started today.

Visit E8 Markets

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is E8 Markets better than Smart Trader Funds?

Based on our analysis across 7 categories, E8 Markets wins overall. It outperforms Smart Trader Funds in areas including Challenge Structure and Profit Split & Payouts. That said, both firms are reputable options for funded traders.

Which has better profit split, E8 Markets or Smart Trader Funds?

E8 Markets offers the higher profit split. E8 Markets offers up to 80-100% while Smart Trader Funds offers N/A.

Is E8 Markets trustworthy?

E8 Markets holds an EntryLab rating of 4.50/10 based on our editorial review. We evaluate prop firms on payouts, challenge fairness, support quality, and regulatory standing. Always conduct your own due diligence before funding a challenge.

Which has a cheaper challenge fee, E8 Markets or Smart Trader Funds?

Smart Trader Funds offers the more affordable challenge. E8 Markets starts at From $38 to $750+ and Smart Trader Funds starts at N/A.

What is the maximum funding at E8 Markets vs Smart Trader Funds?

E8 Markets offers maximum funded accounts of $1,000,000, while Smart Trader Funds offers up to N/A. Both allow traders to scale their accounts over time.

Which is better for beginner traders, E8 Markets or Smart Trader Funds?

E8 Markets may be more beginner-friendly due to its lower entry fee and clear challenge structure. Both firms have challenges suitable for traders at different skill levels.