FTMO vs SeacrestFunded: Which Prop Firm is Best for You?

If you’re comparing FTMO vs SeacrestFunded, you’re probably wondering: Which one gives me the best chance to get funded and make real money? The problem? Hidden rules, complex challenges, and fine print that could cost you. Don’t risk choosing the wrong firm. This breakdown reveals the real differences—so you can pick the best one, pass the challenge, and start withdrawing profits in 2025.

FTMO vs SeacrestFunded: Quick Comparison

Founded	2015	2025 (Rebranded)
Evaluation Steps	2-Step (Challenge + Verification)	1-Step, 2-Step, or 3-Step
Profit Target	10% (Phase 1), 5% (Phase 2)	6% (All Steps)
Time Limit	30 Days (Phase 1), 60 Days (Phase 2)	No Time Limit
Daily Drawdown	5%	4%
Overall Drawdown	10%	8%
Profit Split	Up to 90%	Up to 80%
Scaling Plan	Yes (Gradual, strict criteria)	Yes (25% increase every 3 months)
Max Account Size	$2,000,000	$1,000,000 (with scaling)
Allowed Strategies	Limited (No martingale, strict risk rules)	Flexible (Scalping, hedging, martingale allowed)
Payout Frequency	Monthly (FTMO Traders get bi-weekly)	Every 5 days
Reputation	Well-established, trusted	Newer, growing fast
Website	Visit FTMO →	Visit SeacrestFunded →

Both firms offer great opportunities, but FTMO is ideal for traders who prefer strict structure, while SeacrestFunded is better for those who want more freedom and a faster scaling plan.

FTMO vs SeacrestFunded: Company Background

FTMO and SeacrestFunded are two of the most well-known proprietary trading firms, each with its unique approach to funding traders.

FTMO, founded in 2015, is one of the oldest and most reputable prop firms in the industry. It has a strong global presence, serving traders in over 180 countries. Known for its structured and disciplined approach, FTMO has built a reputation for reliability, high payout consistency, and well-defined rules. Traders trust FTMO for its proven track record and transparent operations.

SeacrestFunded, formerly MyFundedFx, is a newer but rapidly growing competitor. It rebranded in 2024 and continues to attract traders with its flexible trading rules and innovative scaling plans. With over 92,000 active users across 190+ countries, SeacrestFunded has gained popularity for allowing traders more freedom in their strategies, including scalping, hedging, and martingale. While it may not have the same legacy as FTMO, its fresh approach and trader-friendly policies make it an appealing option for those looking for a less restrictive trading environment.

Evaluation & Challenge Process

Getting funded by a prop firm requires proving your trading skills through an evaluation process. FTMO and SeacrestFunded both use challenge-based models, but they differ in structure, flexibility, and difficulty.

FTMO’s challenge is a two-step process:

1. Phase 1 (Challenge) – Traders must hit a 10% profit target within 30 days while staying within a 5% daily drawdown and 10% total drawdown limit.
2. Phase 2 (Verification) – Traders need to make an additional 5% profit within 60 days under the same risk rules.

After passing both phases, traders receive a funded account and can start withdrawing profits, with a standard 80% profit split. FTMO is known for its structured approach, making it a solid choice for disciplined traders who can meet the set targets within the time limits.

SeacrestFunded offers more options with One-Step, Two-Step, and even Three-Step challenges. The core difference is that its profit targets are generally lower at 6%, and there are no time limits to complete the challenge. This means traders can take their time, reducing pressure and improving their chances of passing. Additionally, SeacrestFunded’s drawdown limits (4% daily and 8% total) are slightly more forgiving than FTMO’s.

One of SeacrestFunded’s standout features is its instant scaling plan. Unlike FTMO, which has strict scaling criteria, SeacrestFunded increases a trader’s funded account balance by 25% every 3 months if they achieve a 12% gain—with a maximum balance of $1,000,000.

In summary, FTMO is ideal for traders who prefer structure and have a disciplined, rule-based approach. SeacrestFunded, on the other hand, is more flexible, giving traders multiple challenge options and a more relaxed evaluation process. The choice ultimately depends on whether you value structure or freedom in your trading journey.

Trading Platforms

A good trading experience depends on platform reliability and asset variety. Both FTMO and SeacrestFunded provide access to popular trading platforms, but their platform choices and available instruments differ.

FTMO supports MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), DXTrade, and cTrader. MT4 and MT5 are industry standards, known for their stability, advanced charting tools, and support for automated trading via Expert Advisors (EAs). DXTrade and cTrader offer modern interfaces, deep market analysis, and faster execution speeds. FTMO’s platform selection ensures compatibility with a wide range of trading styles, from scalping to swing trading.

SeacrestFunded offers DXTrade, Match-Trader, cTrader, and MT5. While it does not support MT4, it provides Match-Trader, a rising alternative known for its cloud-based trading and smooth mobile experience. Like FTMO, it also includes cTrader and DXTrade, both excellent for high-speed order execution and algorithmic trading.

When it comes to trading instruments, both firms offer a wide range of assets. Traders can access Forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. SeacrestFunded slightly edges ahead in variety by supporting 175+ trading assets, while FTMO offers a slightly more limited but still comprehensive selection.

For traders who prefer MT4, FTMO is the better choice. For those looking for Match-Trader or a fast-growing platform alternative, SeacrestFunded provides more options. Both firms ensure that traders can execute trades efficiently across a diverse set of markets.

FTMO vs SeacrestFunded: Trading Rules & Restrictions

Both FTMO and SeacrestFunded enforce trading rules to maintain risk control, but their approaches differ.

FTMO follows a structured risk management system. It enforces a 5% daily drawdown and a 10% total drawdown, ensuring traders stay within strict loss limits. FTMO also prohibits copy trading, arbitrage, and high-frequency trading (HFT). Holding trades over the weekend is not allowed on standard accounts, but traders can choose a swing account if they prefer to hold positions long-term. FTMO also requires traders to complete a minimum of 10 trading days in the evaluation phase, making it less suitable for traders who pass challenges in just a few trades.

SeacrestFunded takes a more flexible approach. It has a 4% daily drawdown and 8% total drawdown, slightly more forgiving than FTMO’s limits. Unlike FTMO, SeacrestFunded allows all trading styles, including scalping, hedging, and martingale strategies, as long as traders follow risk management guidelines. There’s no minimum trading day requirement, meaning traders can pass the challenge in a single trade if they meet the profit target. SeacrestFunded also allows traders to hold positions overnight and over the weekend, making it an excellent choice for swing traders. However, prohibited activities include copy trading, group hedging, and external signal copying.

FTMO appeals to traders who prefer structured rules and discipline, while SeacrestFunded offers more freedom for traders who want fewer restrictions on their strategy. The choice depends on whether a trader values flexibility or prefers a well-defined framework.

FTMO vs SeacrestFunded: Costs & Fees

Both FTMO and SeacrestFunded charge a one-time challenge fee, but they differ in refund policies, affordability, and challenge structure.

FTMO Challenge Fees

FTMO’s pricing depends on the chosen account size. Here’s a breakdown:

• $10,000 account – €89 (~$95)
• $25,000 account – €155 (~$170)
• $50,000 account – €250 (~$275)
• $100,000 account – €540 (~$595)
• $200,000 account – €1,080 (~$1,190)

The biggest advantage of FTMO’s pricing is its full refund policy—once traders pass both the Challenge and Verification stages, they receive their fee back with their first profit split. While this makes FTMO attractive, the higher upfront cost and stricter challenge conditions mean many traders never see that refund.

SeacrestFunded Challenge Fees

SeacrestFunded offers multiple challenge types, allowing traders to choose the best fit for their style and budget. Their pricing is generally more affordable than FTMO, with frequent discounts. Here’s the breakdown for key challenge types:

📌 1-Step & 2-Step Challenges

• $5,000 account – $50
• $10,000 account – $100
• $25,000 account – $200
• $50,000 account – $300
• $100,000 account – $500

📌 2-Step Max Challenge (Lower Fees)

• $5,000 account – $38
• $10,000 account – $75
• $25,000 account – $140
• $50,000 account – $210
• $100,000 account – $425

📌 3-Step Challenge (Advanced Traders)

• $10,000 account – $70
• $25,000 account – $150
• $50,000 account – $225
• $100,000 account – $375

SeacrestFunded’s most budget-friendly option is the 2-Step Max Challenge, which lowers entry costs while maintaining competitive profit splits. Unlike FTMO, SeacrestFunded does not refund the challenge fee, but it compensates with lower profit targets, no time limits, and an easier challenge structure, increasing a trader’s chance of success.

Additional Costs

• FTMO covers all withdrawal fees, ensuring traders receive their full profit share.
• SeacrestFunded may charge minor withdrawal fees, depending on the chosen payout method.

Funded Account & Profit Split

Once traders pass the evaluation, they receive a funded account where they can start making real withdrawals.

FTMO offers a standard 80% profit split, which can increase to 90% after consistent performance. Traders can withdraw profits every 30 days, but those who scale their accounts successfully get paid every 14 days. FTMO also has a scaling plan, where traders can increase their account size by 25% every four months, provided they generate a 10% profit and follow risk management rules.

SeacrestFunded matches FTMO’s 80% standard profit split but offers payouts every 5 days, significantly faster than FTMO’s 30-day cycle. There’s no limit on profit potential as long as traders stay within drawdown limits. SeacrestFunded also has a more aggressive scaling plan, increasing a trader’s account balance by 25% every three months, with a max balance of $1,000,000.

FTMO is great for traders who value long-term stability and structured scaling. SeacrestFunded is better for those who want faster payouts and more aggressive growth potential. Both firms offer competitive funding, but their payout structures cater to different trader preferences.

FTMO vs SeacrestFunded: Payout

Getting paid is one of the most critical aspects of any prop trading firm. Both FTMO and SeacrestFunded offer profit splits and structured payout systems, but they differ in payout speed and flexibility.

FTMO follows a bi-weekly payout cycle. Traders can request their first payout 30 days after their first trade and then receive payments every 14 days after that. The standard profit split is 80%, but traders who maintain consistency and scale their accounts can reach 90% profit share over time. FTMO processes payouts quickly and offers various withdrawal methods, including bank transfers and cryptocurrencies.

SeacrestFunded offers even faster payouts. Traders can withdraw profits every 5 days, making it one of the quickest payout systems in the industry. Like FTMO, the standard profit split starts at 80%, but SeacrestFunded does not yet offer a 90% tier. Instead, its advantage lies in its high payout frequency, which benefits traders who want faster access to their funds.

For traders who value higher long-term profit splits, FTMO has the edge with its 90% payout potential. But for those who prefer quicker withdrawals, SeacrestFunded’s 5-day payout cycle provides a major advantage.

Risk Management & Drawdown Limits

Effective risk management is the foundation of any successful prop trading experience. Both FTMO and SeacrestFunded enforce strict drawdown limits, but their approaches differ in ways that can impact a trader’s strategy.

FTMO enforces a 5% daily drawdown limit and a 10% overall drawdown limit across both the evaluation and funded account stages. These limits ensure traders maintain strict risk control, preventing reckless trading. FTMO also offers an account reset option, but traders must pay for a new challenge if they fail. While these rules promote disciplined trading, they can be restrictive for traders who use high-risk strategies.

SeacrestFunded, on the other hand, offers a 4% daily drawdown and an 8% overall drawdown limit. While the total drawdown is tighter than FTMO’s, SeacrestFunded allows more flexibility in risk-taking with its no-time-limit challenge options. This gives traders more time to recover from small losses instead of rushing to meet profit targets. Another key difference is SeacrestFunded’s scaling plan, which lets traders grow their simulated account size over time—an advantage for those aiming for long-term sustainability.

Customer Support

Customer support and trader resources can make or break the experience with a prop firm. Both FTMO and SeacrestFunded provide solid support, but their community engagement and educational tools vary.

FTMO offers 24/7 live chat support, email assistance, and a comprehensive FAQ section. Its large, active community is a huge advantage, with traders sharing insights in forums, Discord, and social media groups. FTMO also provides high-quality educational content, including trading psychology courses, webinars, and performance coaching. This makes it ideal for traders who value structured learning and mentorship.

SeacrestFunded also provides live chat and email support, but response times may not be as fast as FTMO’s. However, its Discord community is one of its strongest assets. Traders engage in real-time discussions, sharing strategies and experiences. While SeacrestFunded lacks the extensive educational resources FTMO offers, it compensates with flexible trading rules and a strong trader-driven support network.

Pros & Cons of Each Firm

To make an informed decision, traders should weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each firm based on their individual trading styles and goals.

FTMO – Pros & Cons

✅ Reputation & Trust – Established in 2015, FTMO is one of the most respected and reliable prop firms.
✅ Structured Payouts – Pays out consistently with an 80% profit split (scalable to 90%).
✅ Challenge Fee Refund – Traders get their evaluation fee back after passing both phases.
✅ Excellent Support & Trading Tools – Provides a performance tracker, trading journal, and psychological coaching.
✅ Strict Risk Management – Encourages disciplined trading habits.

❌ High Profit Targets – 10% in Phase 1 and 5% in Phase 2 can be challenging for some traders.
❌ Time Limits – 30 days for Phase 1 and 60 days for Phase 2 create pressure.
❌ No Instant Scaling – Requires consistent profits over several months to qualify for account growth.

SeacrestFunded – Pros & Cons

✅ Lower Profit Targets – Only 6% required to pass the challenge, making it easier to succeed.
✅ No Time Limits – Traders can take as long as they need to pass the evaluation.
✅ Multiple Challenge Options – Offers 1-step, 2-step, and even 3-step challenges to fit different strategies.
✅ Flexible Trading Rules – Allows scalping, hedging, grid, and martingale strategies.
✅ Faster Payouts – Traders can request payouts every 5 days instead of waiting a full month.
✅ Scaling Plan – Funded accounts can grow by 25% every 3 months, reaching up to $1M.

❌ No Challenge Fee Refund – Unlike FTMO, traders do not get their money back after passing.
❌ Slightly Lower Profit Split – Offers up to 80%, while FTMO scales up to 90%.
❌ Less Established – Still growing its reputation compared to FTMO.
❌ Potential Withdrawal Fees – Some payout methods may have small processing costs.

FTMO vs SeacrestFunded: Which Prop Firm to Choose?

Choosing between FTMO and SeacrestFunded comes down to your trading style, risk tolerance, and personal preferences. From the comparison so far, both firms offer strong funding opportunities and cater to different types of traders.

So if you prefer a structured, time-tested prop firm with a proven track record, FTMO is the better choice. Its well-defined two-step evaluation process ensures disciplined trading, and its consistent payouts, strict risk management, and industry-leading reputation make it a reliable option for serious traders. However, its 10% profit target and time constraints can be challenging, making it more suitable for skilled traders who thrive under pressure.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for more flexibility, multiple evaluation options, and a trader-friendly scaling plan, SeacrestFunded stands out. With a lower 6% profit target, no time limits, and a 25% account growth system, it provides a more accessible path to funding. The ability to trade with various strategies, including scalping and martingale, also gives traders more freedom compared to FTMO’s stricter rules. However, as a newer firm, SeacrestFunded is still building its long-term reputation.

Take Away

Success in prop trading isn’t just about choosing the right firm—it’s about aligning with a model that complements your strengths. FTMO rewards discipline and consistency, while SeacrestFunded offers flexibility and rapid growth potential. Neither is inherently better; the edge comes from how well you adapt to their structure. Before committing, assess your trading style, risk tolerance, and long-term goals. The best prop firm is the one that empowers you to trade confidently and profitably in the markets.

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FAQs

1. Is FTMO better than SeacrestFunded?
   It depends on your trading style. FTMO offers a structured and proven system with strict risk management, while SeacrestFunded provides more flexibility, lower profit targets, and faster scaling. Choose based on what suits your strategy.

2. Which firm has an easier challenge to pass?
   SeacrestFunded is easier due to its lower 6% profit target and no time limit, while FTMO requires 10% in Phase 1 within 30 days and 5% in Phase 2 within 60 days.

3. Which prop firm offers better profit splits?
   FTMO offers up to 90%, while SeacrestFunded provides up to 80%. If maximizing payouts is your priority, FTMO has a slight edge.

4. Can I use any trading strategy on both firms?
   No. FTMO restricts certain high-risk strategies like martingale and excessive hedging, while SeacrestFunded allows more flexibility, including scalping, hedging, and martingale.

5. Which firm pays out faster?
   SeacrestFunded processes payouts every 5 days, while FTMO pays monthly or bi-weekly for FTMO Traders. If frequent withdrawals matter, SeacrestFunded is faster.

6. Which firm has a better scaling plan?
   SeacrestFunded offers 25% account growth every 3 months, while FTMO has a gradual scaling model with stricter criteria. SeacrestFunded’s plan allows for faster growth.