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Trading can be challenging, especially for new traders trying to figure out how to become a prop trader. You might feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of prop firms out there. How do you find the one that fits your needs? To help you on your journey, this article identifies the best prop firms for US traders so you can confidently identify and join the best prop firm that matches your trading style and goals.
If you're looking for a great prop trading firm to get you started, FX2 Funding is a valuable resource that can help you achieve your objectives. Their unique approach to prop trading firm is designed to help traders find success by offering a trading environment that suits their needs.
Proprietary trading, or prop trading, is where a firm or financial institution trades stocks, bonds, currencies, commodities, derivatives, or other financial instruments using its capital instead of client funds. In this model, the firm aims to generate profits directly from market activity, capturing 100% of gains (and losses) from its trades instead of earning commissions on behalf of clients.
Prop trading was the domain of banks and large financial institutions that leveraged sophisticated technology, market data, and trading strategies such as arbitrage, global macro-trading, and volatility trading to maximize returns. However, the industry has evolved significantly, and today, many independent proprietary trading firms provide skilled individual traders with access to firm capital, technology, and support, enabling them to trade on behalf of the firm without risking their own money.
For US traders, the appeal of prop trading has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by several key advantages. Prop trading firms provide access to significantly larger capital than most individual traders could afford, allowing them to take bigger positions and earn higher profits while limiting personal financial risk.
Instead of risking their funds, traders use the firm’s capital and share a portion of their profits with the firm, typically retaining a substantial percentage (often between 70% and 90%) of their earnings. This profit-sharing model creates a win-win scenario where the trader and the firm benefit from successful trading.
Imagine you had a million-dollar trading account to use on your next trade. You could take significantly larger positions, earn much higher profits, and still sleep easily at night knowing you would not lose a dime of your own money if the trade went against you. This is the type of opportunity that prop trading firms offer traders.
In addition to providing traders with access to larger capital, prop firms often supply traders with cutting-edge trading platforms, real-time market data, risk management tools, and educational resources, which can be prohibitively expensive or inaccessible to retail traders alone.
For US traders facing regulatory and capital barriers, prop firms offer a structured and supportive environment to develop their trading careers without needing significant upfront investments or exposure to excessive personal losses.
Trading personal capital can create significant financial and psychological pressures that negatively impact a trader’s performance. Since the risk of loss is borne primarily by the firm, traders can focus more on strategy and discipline rather than worrying about depleting their savings. This risk mitigation is particularly attractive given the volatile nature of financial markets.
Many prop firms also implement strict risk management rules, such as maximum drawdown limits and position size restrictions, to protect the firm’s capital and the trader’s account and foster responsible trading behavior.
The increasing availability of remote prop trading programs has further opened opportunities for US traders to participate globally, bypassing geographical constraints and accessing diverse markets, including:
As a result, proprietary trading has become a popular path for US traders seeking to leverage institutional capital, improve their trading skills, and earn consistent income in a professional trading environment.
One of the foremost things to consider for US traders is whether a prop firm explicitly accepts traders based in the United States. Because of stringent US financial regulations and compliance requirements, many prop firms restrict or exclude US residents from their programs. The best prop firms for US traders openly welcome them and have tailored their offerings to accommodate regulatory constraints and legal compliance. This acceptance eliminates the frustration and barriers US traders often face, allowing them to participate fully without risking account closures or legal complications. Firms like:
Have gained popularity because they explicitly support US traders, providing a legal and transparent pathway for Americans to access funded accounts. Such firms often offer clear terms and support addressing US regulatory concerns, giving traders peace of mind and confidence in their partnership.
Prop firms typically require traders to complete evaluation challenges before receiving funded accounts. The structure and difficulty of these challenges vary widely and significantly influence a trader’s ability to succeed. The best firms offer challenge formats that balance rigor with fairness, ensuring traders are tested on risk management and consistency without unreasonable hurdles.
Common challenge structures include one-step challenges (pass one evaluation to get funded), two-step challenges (pass a preliminary phase followed by a verification phase), and instant funding models where traders receive capital immediately but must meet profit targets to retain funding. For US traders, firms that offer flexible challenge durations, reasonable profit targets (often between 6%-10%), and transparent rules are preferable. Instant funding options appeal to traders seeking immediate access to capital without lengthy evaluations. The ideal prop firm provides clear, achievable challenge guidelines and sufficient time for traders to demonstrate skill, reducing stress and increasing success rates.
Profit sharing is a core feature of prop trading, where traders keep a percentage of the profits they generate from the firm’s capital. The best prop firms offer competitive profit splits, typically ranging from 70% to as high as 100% in some cases, rewarding traders generously for their performance.
For US traders, 80% or above profit splits are often considered excellent, as they maximize earnings while maintaining a sustainable firm model. Equally important is the speed and reliability of payouts. Fast payout processes, sometimes within hours or a day, are crucial for traders who rely on trading income for living expenses or reinvestment.
Another vital factor is the diversity of tradable markets. US traders have varying preferences, from forex and indices to stocks, futures, and cryptocurrencies. The best prop firms provide access to various asset classes, enabling traders to diversify their strategies and capitalize on different market conditions.
For example, DNA Funded offers over 800 trading instruments, including:
This gives traders exceptional flexibility. Some firms specialize in futures trading, which appeals to traders focused on that market segment. Access to multiple asset classes allows traders to adapt their trading style, hedge risks, and explore new opportunities, making the firm more attractive and versatile for US traders with diverse interests.
Trading technology and tools are critical to a trader’s success. The best prop firms support popular and reliable trading platforms such as:
With advanced charting, order execution, and risk management features. US traders benefit from firms offering multi-platform compatibility, allowing them to seamlessly trade on desktop, web, and mobile devices.
Access to real-time market data, fast execution speeds, low latency, and advanced order types enhances trading efficiency and strategy implementation. Some firms like FX2 Funding also provide educational resources, analytics dashboards, and community forums to support trader development. A robust technological infrastructure ensures that US traders can operate at professional levels and compete effectively in fast-moving markets.
Regulatory compliance and reputation are paramount for US traders. The best prop firms maintain transparent business practices, clear terms and conditions, and adhere to relevant financial regulations to protect traders’ interests. While many prop firms operate outside direct US regulatory oversight, those that demonstrate strong ethical standards, secure fund handling, and responsive customer support earn higher trust.
Online reviews, Trustpilot scores, and industry reputation provide valuable insights into a firm’s reliability. US traders should prioritize firms with positive feedback regarding payout reliability, fair challenge rules, and professional support. A reputable firm reduces the risk of scams or unfair practices, providing a safe environment for traders to grow their skills and income.
Choosing the right prop trading firm significantly affects your trading success. You must evaluate various factors, including trading conditions and fee structures, to ensure you partner with a firm that aligns with your goals.
Evaluating Trading Conditions When assessing trading conditions, consider the following aspects:
Understanding fee structures is vital when selecting a prop trading firm. Pay attention to these elements:
FX2 Funding is a reputable proprietary trading firm that has steadily gained traction among US traders due to its flexible funding programs and competitive profit splits. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in the Czech Republic, FX2 Funding offers funded accounts ranging from $10,000 to $200,000, providing traders access to institutional capital without risking their funds.
The firm supports multiple trading platforms, including:
Accommodating a wide range of trading styles and preferences. FX2 Funding is known for its transparent fee structure, offering profit splits up to 95%, and bi-weekly payouts that can be accelerated with add-ons, making it an attractive choice for US traders seeking consistent income and fast access to profits.
What sets FX2 Funding apart is its focus on providing a supportive environment for traders at all levels. It combines competitive challenge requirements with educational resources and responsive customer service. The firm’s risk management rules are clear and designed to protect trader and firm capital, fostering disciplined trading habits.
While FX2 Funding may not yet have the brand recognition of some larger firms, its growing user base and positive reviews highlight its reliability and trader-friendly policies. For US traders looking for a well-rounded prop firm with flexible account sizes, solid platform options, and fair profit sharing, FX2 Funding is a compelling option.
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DNA Funded is regarded as the best overall prop firm for US traders in 2025, thanks to its low fees, flexible challenge options, and extensive market access. Backed by DNA Markets, an ASIC-regulated brokerage, DNA Funded offers traders access to over 800 trading instruments, including:
The firm’s evaluation process is designed to be fair and achievable. Profit targets typically range from 6% to 10%, and challenge fees start at just $49. Traders benefit from profit splits up to 90%, fast trade execution, and tight spreads, making DNA Funded an excellent choice for beginners and experienced traders looking to scale.
DNA Funded offers add-ons such as early payouts and profit share upgrades, allowing traders to customise their funding experience. The firm’s transparent policies and strong regulatory backing give US traders confidence and security. Its multi-tiered challenge structure, including one-step and two-step options, caters to different trading styles and risk appetites. DNA Funded combines affordability, flexibility, and market diversity, positioning it as a top contender for US traders seeking a comprehensive prop trading solution.
BrightFunded stands out for its unique profit-sharing model, offering traders up to 100% profit splits under certain conditions. The firm provides scalable accounts ranging from $5,000 to $200,000, catering to traders aiming for gradual growth. BrightFunded’s multi-phased evaluation process allows traders to progress through stages with clear targets and manageable risk parameters. Its loyalty rewards program, Trade2Earn, incentivises consistent performance by offering bonuses and reduced fees for returning traders.
BrightFunded’s flexible add-ons and transparent fee structure make it an appealing choice for US traders. The firm supports a variety of trading instruments and platforms, ensuring traders can operate in their preferred markets and environments. BrightFunded’s focus on rewarding loyalty and performance fosters a supportive community, making it ideal for traders who value long-term growth and partnership.
ThinkCapital is known for its affordable challenge fees and flexible platform options, making it a popular choice among US traders seeking cost-effective funding opportunities. The firm offers a variety of account sizes and challenge types, including one-step and two-step evaluations, to suit different trading styles. ThinkCapital supports platforms like MetaTrader and cTrader, providing traders with familiar and reliable environments.
The firm’s straightforward rules and competitive profit splits (usually around 80%) appeal to traders who want a no-nonsense approach to prop trading. ThinkCapital also emphasises quick funding upon challenge completion and offers scalable funding options, allowing traders to grow their accounts as they demonstrate consistent profitability. Its affordability and simplicity make it a solid choice for traders starting their prop trading journey.
Topstep is widely regarded as the best prop firm for futures traders, particularly popular among US clients due to its US-based operations and regulatory compliance. It specialises in futures and forex trading, offering traders a clear path to funding through its Trading Combine evaluation program. Topstep’s unique feature is that traders keep 100% of their first $10,000 in profits, transitioning to a 90% profit split thereafter, which is highly attractive.
The Trading Combine allows unlimited time to meet profit targets, reducing pressure and encouraging disciplined trading. Topstep also provides extensive educational resources, coaching, and a supportive community, helping traders improve their skills. Its focus on futures markets, transparent rules, and strong reputation make it a top choice for US traders specialising in futures.
Funded Trading Plus (FTP) is known for offering some of the fastest payouts in the industry, with withdrawal cycles every three, five, or seven days. This payout flexibility is a major draw for US traders who rely on consistent income. FTP provides instant funding options alongside traditional challenge programs, catering to traders who prefer immediate access to capital.
The firm supports multiple trading platforms and offers flexible challenge durations and account sizes. Its transparent rules and trader-first approach have earned it high marks in user reviews. FTP’s fast payouts, flexible funding, and trader-friendly policies make it a strong contender for US traders seeking liquidity and convenience.
OFP Funding distinguishes itself by combining funding opportunities with education and mentorship, making it ideal for US traders seeking skill development alongside capital access. The firm offers multiple asset classes, including forex, stocks, and indices, providing a broad trading universe.
OFP Funding’s mentorship programs and educational resources help traders build discipline and refine strategies. Its evaluation challenges are structured to promote consistent, low-risk trading, and the firm supports scalable funding as traders progress. The blend of capital, education, and mentorship makes OFP Funding a comprehensive choice for traders aiming for long-term success.
The5%ers is a globally recognised prop firm with a strong reputation among US traders for focusing on low-risk, long-term growth strategies. It offers funded accounts starting at $6,000 and scales up to $4 million, emphasising consistency over quick profits. The firm imposes no time limits on passing evaluations, allowing traders to develop at their own pace.
The5%ers provide a transparent and supportive environment, with profit splits typically around 50% but with opportunities to scale and improve. Its focus on sustainable trading and risk management appeals to serious traders seeking a stable partnership.
Profitex Funding offers competitive profit splits and a variety of challenge options tailored to US traders. The firm supports multiple asset classes and provides a straightforward challenge process with clear rules.
Profitex emphasises fast funding upon challenge completion and offers scalable accounts for traders demonstrating consistent profitability. Its platform support includes popular trading software, and the firm is praised for responsive customer service. Profitex Funding is a solid choice for traders seeking a reliable and transparent prop firm with flexible options.
FundedPrime is a versatile prop firm offering a comprehensive platform for forex and stock traders. It provides a range of account sizes and challenge types suited to different experience levels and trading goals. FundedPrime strongly emphasises education, offering resources to help traders manage risk and refine strategies.
The firm’s evaluation challenges are designed to be fair and achievable, with profit splits that reward consistent performance. FundedPrime’s educational support, diverse markets, and trader-centric policies make it a valuable option for US traders seeking growth and skill development.
FX2 Funding is a compelling choice for US traders because of its transparent, trader-friendly policies, flexible challenge structures, and robust platform support.
One of its most notable features is its variety of evaluation programs. Five distinct funding plans range from $10,000 to $200,000 in capital and scaling options up to $1 million. This wide range accommodates traders at different experience levels and capital needs. The challenge itself is straightforward.
Traders must achieve a 10% profit target while adhering to strict but fair drawdown limits (4% daily and 6% total). No time limit is imposed to complete the challenge. This no-deadline approach reduces pressure, allowing US traders to focus on consistent, disciplined trading rather than racing against the clock.
FX2 Funding’s refundable initial deposit model (ranging from $95 to $925, depending on the program) provides a low-risk entry point, making it accessible for a broad spectrum of traders.
FX2 Funding also excels in payout speed and transparency, two critical factors for US traders who rely on timely access to profits. Since its launch in 2022, FX2 Funding has maintained a flawless payout record with no denials, processing withdrawals promptly every two weeks, with options for acceleration.
The firm supports multiple withdrawal methods, including Visa, Mastercard, and cryptocurrency wallets, enhancing convenience and flexibility.
Another key advantage is the broad platform support, offering MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, among the most popular and trusted platforms globally. This multi-platform availability enables traders to use their preferred tools and strategies, including:
While FX2 Funding’s educational resources are more limited than those of some competitors, its active blog and community engagement provide valuable market insights and trading tips tailored to its user base.
Compared to top prop firms like DNA Funded, BrightFunded, or Topstep, FX2 Funding holds competitive advantages in several areas. It's a flexible, no-time-limit challenge that contrasts with firms that impose strict deadlines, offering US traders more freedom to trade at their own pace.
The firm’s profit splits, ranging from 75% to 85%, are competitive, especially considering the relatively low initial deposit and absence of reset fees. Unlike some firms that restrict trading styles, FX2 Funding allows a wide range of strategies, including scalping and overnight holds, providing traders greater tactical flexibility.
FX2 Funding’s partnership with Eightcap ensures reasonable trading fees and reliable trade execution, which are crucial for maintaining profitability. While some larger firms may offer more extensive educational programs or broader asset selections, FX2 Funding’s balance of fair challenge rules, rapid payouts, and platform versatility makes it a strong contender for US traders seeking a transparent, reliable, and flexible prop trading environment.
At FX2 Funding, we've built our proprietary trading firm on reliability, transparency, and trader success. We stand apart in a crowded industry by delivering what matters most to serious traders:
Our MT5 platform provides the professional environment traders need to succeed, while our scaling program enables growth from $25,000 to over $400,000 in funding as performance milestones are achieved. We've designed our evaluation process to identify skilled traders and provide them with significant capital without requiring personal financial risk or large upfront investments.
Whether you're an aspiring trader looking to break into the industry or an experienced professional seeking reliable backing, FX2 Funding offers the trustworthy foundation you need to build a successful trading career.
Get started with an evaluation account today and discover why thousands of traders worldwide choose FX2 Funding as their prop trading firm partner.
Proprietary trading firms, or “prop firms,” hire traders to trade their capital. Instead of paying traders a salary, prop firms allow traders to keep a large percentage of the profits they generate trading the firm’s capital. As a result, prop trading firms operate like a business. They look to hire traders who can create consistent profits to help grow the firm’s overall revenue.
This means that prop firms evaluate traders on their performance. The better a trader performs, the more money they can make and the more they can grow their own trading business. Starting at a prop firm can be a great way to kickstart a trading career and significantly shorten the learning curve. Rather than trading a personal account with no outside support, funding, or resources, traders at prop firms get access to both capital and a network of experienced traders to help them succeed.
Not all prop firms are the same, and choosing the right one can make a world of difference to your trading career. Each firm has its own culture, rules, and payout structures, so it’s essential to research and find a firm that matches your goals and trading style. For example, some firms heavily emphasise their evaluation processes and require prospective traders to pass challenging exams to demonstrate their skills.
Other firms are more interested in quickly onboarding new talent, allowing you to demonstrate your abilities while you trade their capital.
In addition to culture, you’ll want to examine each firm's rules and regulations. Some firms have strict guidelines that must be followed to avoid penalties or even being cut from the program.
Others have more relaxed, trader-friendly policies allowing you to trade more flexibly. You’ll want to evaluate the payout structure and understand how profits are distributed. Some firms will only offer a small percentage of profits to traders and will take a significant cut to cover their costs. Others will provide traders with 90% or more of their earnings and have fewer restrictions on trading styles and strategies.
At FX2 Funding, we've built our proprietary trading firm on reliability, transparency, and trader success. We stand apart in a crowded industry by delivering what matters most to serious traders:
Whether you're an aspiring trader looking to break into the industry or an experienced professional seeking reliable backing, FX2 Funding offers the trustworthy foundation you need to build a successful trading career.
Get started with an evaluation account today and discover why thousands of traders worldwide choose FX2 Funding as their prop trading firm partner.
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