For traders looking to scale their careers with proprietary trading firms, selecting the right funding provider is crucial. Two major players in the prop trading industry are FTMO and FundedSquad. Both firms offer traders access to capital, but they differ in evaluation processes, profit-sharing models, and trader benefits. This blog will provide an in-depth comparison of FTMO vs. FundedSquad, analyzing funding criteria, fee structures, profit splits, trader support, and educational resources.
By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of which firm aligns best with your trading style and goals.
Key Criteria for Evaluating Prop Firms
When choosing a proprietary trading firm, traders should consider:
- Funding Options – Does the firm offer instant funding or require an evaluation process?
- Profit Sharing Model – How much of your earnings do you keep?
- Trading Rules & Restrictions – Are there strict requirements on daily drawdowns, lot sizes, and trading styles?
- Educational & Trader Support – Does the firm offer guidance, coaching, or a supportive trading community?
- Scaling Plan – How much capital can traders grow their accounts to over time?
- Payout System – How quickly and efficiently can traders withdraw their profits?
FTMO vs FundedSquad
1. Evaluation Criteria and Funding Options
FTMO
- Evaluation Process: Two-step challenge (FTMO Challenge & Verification)
- Minimum Trading Days: 10 (in Challenge & Verification)
- Profit Target: 10% in Challenge, 5% in Verification
- Maximum Drawdown: 10%
- Account Size: Up to $200,000
- Refundable Fee: Starts at $155 for a $10K challenge
- Time Restriction: 30 days (Challenge), 60 days (Verification)
FundedSquad
- Evaluation Process: 1-step or 2-step challenge options
- Minimum Trading Days: 0 (trade at your pace)
- Profit Target: 6% for instant funding, 10% for challenges
- Maximum Drawdown: 6%
- Account Size: Up to $1M with scaling
- Pricing: Instant funding starts at $249 for $25K
- No Time Limit: Flexible trading conditions
Key Takeaway
FundedSquad offers instant funding, meaning traders can start with a funded account immediately without completing a challenge. FTMO, on the other hand, requires traders to pass an evaluation process, making it more restrictive.
2. Fee Structure & Profit Splits
FTMO
- Refundable Challenge Fees: Fees are refunded after successful evaluation.
- Profit Split: 80-90%
- Scaling Plan: 25% account increase after 4 months of consistent performance
FundedSquad
- Instant Funding Cost: $249 for $25K, $449 for $50K
- Profit Split: Up to 100%
- Scaling Plan: 100% account growth with every 10% profit, up to $1M
Key Takeaway
FundedSquad offers up to a 100% profit split, significantly higher than FTMO’s 80-90%. Additionally, its scaling plan is more aggressive, allowing traders to double their account size with every 10% profit.
3. Trader Support & Educational Resources
FTMO
- FTMO Academy: Comprehensive educational tools
- Performance Coaches: 1-on-1 coaching for traders
- Trading Psychology Support: Helps traders with mental discipline
FundedSquad
- Discord Community: 24/7 support & mentorship
- Instant Payouts: Seamless withdrawals using RISE & digital assets
Key Takeaway
FTMO provides structured coaching and trading psychology support, while FundedSquad fosters a trader community where members learn from experienced professionals in real time.
4. Payout System & Withdrawal Options
FTMO
- Bi-weekly payouts
- Withdraw via bank transfer or other methods
FundedSquad
- Instant payouts on demand
- Withdraw via RISE, digital assets, and bank transfers
Key Takeaway
With instant payouts, FundedSquad ensures traders can access profits immediately, whereas FTMO operates on a bi-weekly cycle.
Final Verdict:
Feature | FTMO | FundedSquad |
Funding Type | 2-Step Evaluation | Instant Funding & Evaluation |
Profit Split | Up to 90% | Up to 100% |
Profit Target | 10% | As low as 6% |
Daily Drawdown Limit | 5% | Up to 6% |
Evaluation Fee | Starts at $155 | Starts at $107 |
Refundable Fee? | Yes (upon passing) | Yes (on challenge completion) |
Scaling Plan | 25%-40% growth after 4 months | 100% growth with every 10% profit |
Payout Frequency | Bi-weekly | Instant payouts on demand |
Leverage | 1:30 | 1:30 |
Trading Platforms | MT4, MT5 | MatchTrader, TradeLocker |
Choose FTMO If:
✅ You prefer a structured evaluation process before accessing funds.
✅ You want institutional-grade education and coaching.
✅ You are comfortable with higher fees and profit targets.
Choose FundedSquad If:
✅ You want instant access to capital without evaluation stress.
✅ You seek higher profit splits (up to 100%).
✅ You prefer a scalable growth plan with every 10% profit milestone.
✅ You need instant payouts and community-driven support.
Conclusion
While both FTMO and FundedSquad offer solid funding programs, FundedSquad’s instant funding, higher profit splits, and scalable growth options make it a game-changer for traders seeking financial freedom. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting, FundedSquad’s flexibility and trader-first approach set it apart.
Related Blog: Success Stories: Traders Who Conquered the Forex Funded Account Challenge
Ready to start your trading journey with the most competitive funding firm?