Topstep vs Tradeify
The established name vs the no-monthly-fee challenger. Both run end-of-day drawdown.
Topstep is the incumbent; Tradeify is a fast-rising challenger with a clean pitch: one-time account purchases, no monthly fees, and an end-of-day trailing drawdown that locks in early. Both use the trader-friendly EOD drawdown, so this comparison comes down to cost model, payout speed, and how each fits an automated workflow. Prop rules and prices change often, so weigh structure over sticker.
The bottom line
Topstep wins on track record, an official automation API, and brand trust. Tradeify wins on cost model (one-time, no monthly fees) and payout speed (a daily-payout option). Both use an end-of-day trailing drawdown. Pick Topstep for the proven, API-friendly path; pick Tradeify to avoid recurring fees and get paid faster.
Feature by feature
| Feature | Topstep | Tradeify |
|---|---|---|
| Fee model | Monthly subscription (~$49–149) | One-time purchase, no monthly fees |
| Account paths | Trading Combine → Express/Live Funded | Growth, Select, Lightning (incl. straight-to-funded) |
| Drawdown type | End-of-day trailing | End-of-day trailing, locks early |
| Profit split | 90/10 (legacy 100% of first $10K) | 90% simulated funded (80% Elite Live) |
| Payout speed | 5 winning days, weekly cadence | 5 winning days; on-demand / daily option (24–48h) |
| Activation fee | None on standard path | None (Select); one-time purchase covers it |
| Platform + data | TopstepX (ProjectX) | Tradovate/Rithmic-style; free non-pro data |
| Automation / API | Official TopstepX (ProjectX) API | EAs allowed with proof of ownership; no HFT bots |
FAQ
Is Tradeify better than Topstep?
Different strengths. Tradeify avoids monthly fees (accounts are a one-time purchase) and offers faster, even daily, payouts. Topstep has the longer track record and an official API for building automation. If recurring fees bother you, Tradeify; if you want proven infrastructure and clean automation, Topstep.
Does Tradeify charge monthly fees like Topstep?
No. Tradeify accounts are a one-time purchase with no monthly subscription and, on its Select path, no activation fee. Topstep charges a monthly subscription per account until you are funded. Over a long evaluation, the cost models diverge sharply.
Which pays out faster?
Tradeify, generally: it offers on-demand payouts and a daily-payout option on some accounts, often within 24–48 hours. Topstep requires 5 winning days and pays on a weekly cycle. Both require a minimum number of qualifying days first.
Can you automate on Tradeify?
Yes, with a caveat: Tradeify allows expert advisors and automated strategies if you can prove you are the sole owner of the strategy, and it prohibits high-frequency-trading bots. Topstep exposes an official TopstepX (ProjectX) API, which is the more builder-friendly automation path of the two.
Which should a systematic trader pick?
Topstep if you want the official API and a proven firm; Tradeify if you want to skip monthly fees and get paid quickly, and are comfortable with a newer firm. Both use an EOD trailing drawdown, which is the trader-friendly kind for systems that ride intraday pullbacks.
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