FTMO vs Smart Trader Funds
Two prop firms compared on funding, profit splits, challenge rules, and payouts.
Last updated: March 21, 2026
Quick Verdict
FTMO wins this comparison — 4 out of 6 categories.
Our analysts reviewed both options across pricing, reputation, and trading conditions. FTMO came out ahead based on our scoring criteria. Read each category below for the full breakdown.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Pricing
Smart Trader Funds winsOn pricing, Smart Trader Funds offers better value. Its challenge fee starts at N/A, which is lower than FTMO's From €155 (€10K) to €1,080 (€200K). For traders watching their costs, Smart Trader Funds represents a more affordable path to funded trading.
FTMOFrom €155 (€10K) to €1,080 (€200K)
Smart Trader Funds$99 (10k account)Drawdown Rules
FTMO applies more lenient drawdown rules, giving traders more room to manage losing periods. Its daily drawdown limit is 5% and maximum drawdown is 10%. 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.
FTMO10%Smart Trader Funds6-10% (varies by programme)Trading Platforms
FTMO winsFTMO supports more trading platforms, giving traders greater choice in how they execute their strategy. It offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade, while Smart Trader Funds offers standard platform access.
FTMOSmart Trader FundsReputation & Trust
FTMO winsFTMO has built a stronger reputation among funded traders. With an EntryLab rating of 4.80/10, 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.
FTMO4.80Smart Trader Funds4.20Scaling & Max Funding
FTMO winsBoth firms offer equivalent maximum funding levels. Neither has an advantage for traders looking to scale.
FTMO$2,000,000Smart Trader Funds$300,000Profit Split & Payouts
Smart Trader Funds winsFTMO offers a superior profit-sharing arrangement. Traders keep up to 80% (up to 90% with scaling) of profits, with payouts Biweekly. Smart Trader Funds offers N/A with standard payouts, which is less favourable for traders maximising their earnings.
FTMO80% (up to 90% with scaling)Smart Trader Funds70% (Fast Track), 80-90% (Regular/Pro)Challenge Structure
FTMO winsFTMO provides more flexibility in how traders can get funded. It offers {"2-Step Challenge (Standard)","2-Step Challenge (Aggressive)"}, compared to Smart Trader Funds's standard evaluation. With a profit target of 10% (Phase 1), 5% (Phase 2), FTMO also sets a more achievable bar for traders looking to pass their evaluation.
FTMOSmart Trader FundsOur Pick
FTMO Wins This Round
Based on our side-by-side analysis, FTMO edges ahead in this matchup. Get started today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is FTMO better than Smart Trader Funds?
Based on our analysis across 7 categories, FTMO 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, FTMO or Smart Trader Funds?
FTMO offers the higher profit split. FTMO offers up to 80% (up to 90% with scaling) while Smart Trader Funds offers N/A.
Is FTMO trustworthy?
FTMO holds an EntryLab rating of 4.80/10 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, FTMO or Smart Trader Funds?
Smart Trader Funds offers the more affordable challenge. FTMO starts at From €155 (€10K) to €1,080 (€200K) and Smart Trader Funds starts at N/A.
What is the maximum funding at FTMO vs Smart Trader Funds?
FTMO offers maximum funded accounts of ,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, FTMO or Smart Trader Funds?
FTMO 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.