Explore top proprietary trading firms offering free trial accounts, allowing traders to test strategies without financial risk in 2025.

Looking to trade with a proprietary trading firm but hesitant to commit money upfront? Free trial accounts let you test platforms, trading risk-management strategies, and evaluation processes without financial risk. Here’s a quick rundown of the top firms offering free trials in 2026:

Pass Prop Firm Challenges Faster With Ready-to-Use Strategies

LuxAlgo Prop Firm Strategies

Prop firm trials are useful, but the real test begins when you have to hit a profit target while staying inside strict daily and overall drawdown rules. That’s why many traders focus on one core goal: show consistency under evaluation constraints. If you want to accelerate that process, LuxAlgo’s prop-firms portal makes it easy to access ready-to-use prop firm strategies built around the same challenge-style rules you’ll face in live evaluations.

Instead of starting from scratch, you can visit the LuxAlgo prop firm strategies page to quickly find approaches that:

  • Have proven to work in the past based on historical market behavior and repeatable conditions
  • Would have passed historical challenges when applied with realistic risk limits and evaluation-style rules
  • Have a higher probability of passing current challenges because they’re designed around disciplined execution and rule compliance

On the LuxAlgo prop-firms portal, you can quickly compare firms, filter to the prop firm you’re considering, and access strategy options without spending hours piecing together entry/exit logic from scattered sources. This is especially helpful when you’re preparing for evaluations where rule compliance (daily loss, overall drawdown, minimum trading days, consistency requirements) is just as important as the entry signal itself.

It’s also one of the fastest ways to move from “idea” to “evaluation-ready plan.” You can scan the portal, identify the prop firm you want to trade with, and match a strategy style to the firm’s constraints. And when discounts are relevant, the portal is where you’ll typically find the best available offers and promotions—so you can access what you need with high discounts when they’re available.

Suggested Strategies

Suggested Prop Firm Strategies

When you’re choosing strategies for a prop firm trial or challenge, prioritize approaches that are easier to execute consistently under drawdown limits. In practice, that often means selecting a strategy style you can follow without overtrading, and pairing it with strict risk controls (position sizing, stop placement, session filters, and daily loss guards).

To browse evaluation-ready ideas and access strategies quickly, visit the LuxAlgo prop-firms portal here: https://www.luxalgo.com/prop-firms/

  • Rule-first trend continuation: Focus on higher-quality directional moves and avoid forcing trades in chop.
  • Structure-based entries: Prioritize clear market structure confirmation to reduce random entries and improve consistency.
  • Risk-managed mean reversion: Use tight invalidation and conservative targets to keep drawdowns contained.
  • Session-based playbooks: Trade only the sessions that match your strategy’s edge and reduce exposure outside your best hours.
  • TopStep: Offers a 14-day free trial with $150,000 in simulated funds. Focuses on risk management and consistency through its Trading Combine program.
  • FTMO prop firm free trial: Provides a free 14-day trial that mirrors their paid challenge and lets you validate ideas you’ve back- and forward-tested. (Official site)
  • AquaFunded: No free trial, but offers paid evaluation programs with flexible funding options and high profit splits (up to 95%).
  • DNA Funded: No free trial, but allows platform exploration via TradeLocker before committing to paid challenges.
  • FundingPips one-step prop firm evaluation: Unique one-step evaluation with unlimited time to meet targets. Simulated accounts range from $5,000 to $100,000. (Official site)
  • FundedX: No strict time limits on challenges, funding up to $200,000, and scaling plans to grow capital to $5 million.

Quick Comparison

Firm Free Trial Duration Trial Features Funding Options Profit Split
TopStep 14 days $150K virtual funds $50K-$150K accounts Up to 90%
FTMO prop firm evaluation 14 days Simulated market data $10K-$200K accounts Up to 90%
AquaFunded None Paid challenges only $2,500-$2M accounts Up to 95%
DNA Funded None Platform exploration $5K-$600K accounts Up to 95%
FundingPips prop firm challenge None (unlimited eval time) Flexible evaluation models $5K-$300K accounts Up to 100%
FundedX None (unlimited eval time) No strict deadlines $5K-$5M accounts Up to 80%

Free trials are a great way to explore trading conditions and assess firms before committing. Choose the one that aligns with your goals and trading style.

FundedNext Free Trial – Best Way to Start with Prop Firms

FundedNext

FundedNext’s free trial is designed to mirror a real evaluation environment without requiring an upfront challenge purchase. In most cases, you’ll be working inside a simulated account that follows familiar prop-style risk limits (for example, a profit target paired with max daily/overall loss rules). That makes it useful for stress-testing your trade management, journaling, and rule compliance before paying for a full evaluation.

1. AquaFunded

AquaFunded

AquaFunded, based in Dubai, doesn’t provide free trial accounts. Instead, it focuses on paid evaluation challenges to assess traders’ skills. If you’re refining a strategy before paying a fee, try the latest algorithmic-strategy ideas and then validate them with strict rule constraints (daily loss, overall drawdown, and minimum days) so your testing better matches what you’ll face in a paid evaluation.

Virtual Account Size (USD)

Traders who pass AquaFunded’s evaluation challenges can access funded accounts ranging from $2,500 to $200,000. For those who demonstrate consistent performance, funding can grow to $400,000, with the potential to reach $2 million over time. The firm also offers instant funding and various evaluation challenges, giving traders flexibility in their path to funding.

Evaluation Requirements

AquaFunded’s evaluation process includes four challenge types: 1-Step, 2-Step Standard, 2-Step Pro, and 3-Step programs. Profit targets range from 5 % to 12 %, with strict risk controls like a maximum daily loss limit of 5 % and a total drawdown cap of 10 %.

Challenge Type Challenge Fee Profit Target Max Drawdown Profit Split
1-Step From $67 9 % 6 % 90 %
2-Step Standard From $57 8 % / 5 % 8 % / 5 % 90 %
2-Step Pro From $157 10 % / 5 % 10 % 90 %
3-Step From $77 6 % / 6 % / 6 % 8 % 90 %

Tradable Assets and Platforms

AquaFunded supports a wide range of tradable assets, including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access these markets using platforms like MetaTrader 5, TradeLocker, and Match Trader. This variety allows traders to choose their preferred platform and trade across multiple asset classes.

Notable Features and Considerations

One standout feature of AquaFunded is its profit-sharing structure. Traders in evaluation programs receive a 90 % profit split, while those opting for instant funding can earn up to 95 %. For an additional fee, traders can even secure a 100 % profit split.

However, reviews of the platform are mixed, with a TU Overall Score of 2.84. While users appreciate the diverse funding options and responsive support, there are some practical considerations. For example, withdrawals require a minimum of $100 and only apply to closed positions. Additionally, since AquaFunded mandates a paid evaluation from the outset, traders must commit to fees starting at $57.

2. TopStep

TopStep

TopStep stands out for a genuinely risk-free 14-day trial. If you want extra confidence before the Trading Combine, you can replicate similar rule-based conditions inside the LUCID backtesting workflow on TradingView, then compare how your entries/exits behave under consistent risk limits.

Trial Duration

TopStep’s trial runs for 14 days, giving traders ample time to experiment and fine-tune their strategies. The trial also includes a reset option, allowing participants to adjust their approach as needed without any financial risk.

Virtual Account Size (USD)

During the trial, traders are provided with $150,000 in simulated funds to manage. This virtual account lets users experience handling larger positions while keeping their real money safe [1].

Evaluation Requirements

The heart of TopStep’s evaluation process is the Trading Combine program, which emphasizes consistency and risk management. The goal? Hit your profit target while staying within the Maximum Loss Limit. To complete the program, traders need a minimum of two trading days.

For those prepared to move beyond the trial, TopStep offers three Trading Combine plans:

Plan Account Size Monthly Cost Profit Target Max Loss Limit Contract Limit
Small Combine $50,000 $49 $3,000 $2,000 5 contracts
Medium Combine $100,000 $99 $6,000 $3,000 10 contracts
Large Combine $150,000 $149 $9,000 $4,500 15 contracts

Key Features and Restrictions

One of the standout aspects of TopStep is its completely free 14-day trial – no hidden costs, no strings attached. Traders who excel in the Trading Combine can unlock an Express Funded Account in as little as two days, though there’s a $149 activation fee once funding is secured.

TopStep’s focus isn’t just on hitting profit goals; it’s about fostering discipline and building consistent trading habits. This long-term approach helps traders develop skills beyond just making quick gains. Plus, the option to reset the trial account provides a stress-free way to learn and improve without risking any money.

3. FTMO prop firm free trial challenge (Official: ftmo.com)

FTMO

FTMO prop firm free trial is a well-known proprietary trading firm option that offers a free trial program giving traders a realistic preview of the FTMO Challenge and verification process. This trial is designed to simulate real market conditions and help you fine-tune your approach—especially if you’re validating strategy ideas you’ve already tested. For strategy discovery and iteration, LuxAlgo provides an AI agent for creating trading strategies through its AI Backtesting Assistant, which you can use alongside the trial to stress-test entries, exits, and risk rules.

Trial Duration

FTMO free trial challenge lasts for 14 days and mimics the structure of their paid challenge [2]. While traders can only have one active trial at a time, they can reset it by deleting their current trial and starting a new one whenever they wish [2]. This setup provides a practical and immersive trading experience.

Virtual Account Size (USD)

The trial operates on a demo account with simulated funds. Although FTMO prop firm doesn’t specify the exact account size for the trial, it uses real market data to create a trading environment that feels authentic [2][4].

Evaluation Requirements

The trial simplifies the process by reducing the required trading days and profit target by half, making it more approachable for beginners [2]. While completing the trial doesn’t lead directly to a funded account, it equips traders with the skills and mindset needed for the full challenge [3]. The trial emphasizes risk management principles, helping traders build disciplined habits and refine their strategies in a realistic setting [5].

Tradable Assets/Platforms

Traders using the free trial can access MT4, MT5, and DXtrade platforms [2], allowing them to test strategies on their preferred trading software.

Notable Features or Restrictions

FTMO prop firm free trial includes access to their proprietary tools like the Statistical Application, Account MetriX, Trading Journal, and a condensed Account Analysis [3]. These tools provide valuable insights and a glimpse into the resources available to funded traders. With thousands of accounts created daily [3], the trial serves as both a learning experience and a way to assess trading skills, helping traders identify areas to improve before committing to the paid challenge.

4. DNA Funded

DNA Funded

DNA Funded, launched on 30 October 2024 [6], takes a unique approach to its funding process. Instead of offering free trial accounts, the firm provides login access to TradeLocker, allowing traders to explore the platform and test trading conditions before committing to a paid challenge [8]. Unlike competitors like TopStep and FTMO, DNA Funded requires traders to purchase a challenge to begin their journey toward a funded account. This setup combines platform exploration with a structured, paid evaluation.

The company offers three distinct challenge programs – 1 Phase, 2 Phase, and Rapid – with account sizes ranging from $5,000 to $200,000 [7]. Upon successfully completing the evaluation, traders can access funded accounts with a maximum allocation of up to $600,000 [7].

Evaluation Requirements

The starting fee for evaluations is $49 [7]. Each challenge has specific criteria:

  • 1 Phase Challenge: Requires a 10 % profit target, a 5 % daily loss limit, and a 6 % maximum total loss [6].
  • 2 Phase Challenge: Involves achieving a 10 % profit target in Phase 1 and 5 % in Phase 2, with a 6 % daily loss limit and a 10 % total loss [6].
  • Rapid Challenge: Features a 5 % profit target, a 4 % daily loss limit, and a 5 % total loss. This challenge is structured as a 10-day evaluation and requires a minimum of three trading days [7].

Tradable Assets/Platforms

DNA Funded exclusively uses the TradeLocker trading platform [7]. While the firm does not provide educational resources [7], traders can familiarize themselves with the platform through their login access [8].

Notable Features and Restrictions

Trades executed on demo accounts are mirrored in live accounts, ensuring a realistic trading experience [7]. However, DNA Funded enforces strict rules during evaluations. Traders must avoid entering trades 10 minutes before or after major data releases [6], and strategies like copy trading, high-frequency trading, tick scalping, and arbitrage are not allowed [6].

Pricing varies based on the type of challenge and account size. For example:

  • A $5,000 account in the 2 Phase challenge costs $49, while the same account size in the 1 Phase challenge is priced at $59 [6].
  • The Rapid challenge starts at $99 for a $10,000 account, making it the most expensive option relative to the virtual capital provided [6].

5. FundingPips

FundingPips

FundingPips takes a unique approach with its one-step evaluation process, offering traders unlimited time to meet their goals [9]. This relaxed structure removes the pressure of strict deadlines, making it appealing for those who prefer a more measured pace. Combined with its straightforward fee structure and multiple evaluation models, FundingPips stands out as a flexible option.

The platform has gained a solid reputation in the trading community, reflected in its 4.6/5 rating on Trustpilot [12]. Users often praise its support, payout system, and overall reliability.

Virtual Account Size (USD)

FundingPips provides simulated account sizes ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, with traders allowed to manage up to $300,000 in simulated capital [11]. Fees vary based on the evaluation model chosen. For instance, a $5,000 account in some models starts at just $29 [10]. For the Two-Step Challenge Model, the fees are structured as follows:

Account Size Evaluation Fee
$5,000 $55
$10,000 $88
$50,000 $235
$100,000 $400

Evaluation Requirements

FundingPips caters to a variety of trading styles with four evaluation models: Instant (Zero), One-Step, Two-Step, and Two-Step Pro. Each model has its own requirements:

  • One-Step Model: Traders need to hit a 10 % profit target while staying within a 4 % daily loss limit and a 6 % overall loss limit. Additionally, at least three trading days must be profitable [10].
  • Two-Step Model: Broken into two phases with profit targets of 8 % in Phase 1 and 5 % in Phase 2. Loss limits include a 5 % daily cap and a 10 % maximum loss [10].
  • Two-Step Pro Model: A more conservative option, requiring only a 3 % profit target per phase. However, the loss limits are tighter, with a 3 % daily cap and a 6 % overall limit [10].
  • Instant Model: Provides direct access to a master account with a 95 % profit split but enforces stricter consistency rules and drawdown limits [10].

Notable Features and Restrictions

FundingPips offers a profit split starting at 80 %, which can increase to 100 % for top-performing traders [13]. Its unlimited time evaluation period sets it apart from competitors, many of which impose 30- to 60-day deadlines [9].

However, evaluation fees are only refunded after completing the challenge and receiving the first profit split payout [10]. Failing to meet the evaluation criteria results in account termination without a refund [13]. Some users have reported delays in activating master accounts after completing challenges [12], so traders should approach the process with care, as they would with a live funded account.

6. FundedX

FundedX

FundedX brings a unique twist to tackling free trial and evaluation challenges. Since its launch in February 2024 [16], the platform has expanded its reach to over 195 countries and rewarded its top trader with over $50,210 [31,33]. One of its standout features is the flexibility it offers through unlimited-duration challenges, allowing traders to progress at their own pace.

Trial Duration

With FundedX, traders enjoy unlimited time to complete challenges, as long as they meet a simple rule: they need to place at least one trade within 30 days of purchasing a challenge and then every 30 days after that [15].

Virtual Account Size (USD)

FundedX offers funding up to $200,000 and includes a scaling plan that can grow trading capital to as much as $5 million [33,35]. Traders can choose from several account sizes, each with a clear, upfront fee:

Account Size Challenge Fee
$5,000 $69
$10,000 $129
$25,000 $259
$50,000 $319
$100,000 $529
$200,000 $989

Evaluation Requirements

FundedX provides two challenge formats: 1-Phase and 2-Phase programs, both offering an 80 % profit share to successful traders [16]. The 1-Phase challenge requires hitting a 10 % profit target while keeping total losses below 7 % and daily losses under 4 %. The 2-Phase challenge splits the evaluation into two steps: Phase 1 demands an 8 % profit target, while Phase 2 lowers the target to 5 %. Both phases enforce a 10 % total loss limit and a 5 % daily loss limit. Additionally, FundedX calculates daily drawdowns based on the account balance at the end of each trading day, adding a layer of precision to risk management [16].

Tradable Assets/Platforms

Traders on FundedX can access a wide variety of assets, including forex, stocks, commodities, and digital currencies [14]. The platform supports multiple trading environments, such as TradeLocker, cTrader, and Platform 5 [33,34]. With leverage up to 1:50, real-time data, and robust risk management tools, traders have everything they need to make informed decisions.

Notable Features and Restrictions

One of FundedX’s standout features is its scaling plan. If traders achieve a 5 % profit over a three-month period, their trading capital increases by 50 %, with the potential to scale up to $5 million [33,34]. The platform also prides itself on fast payouts, processing payments within 24 hours [31,33].

However, there are some restrictions. FundedX prohibits hedging across multiple accounts, grid trading, and account sharing. It also bans trades within two minutes of high-impact news events. Additionally, traders from certain regions, including North Korea, Afghanistan, Belarus, and others under FATF high-risk or monitored jurisdictions, are not eligible to participate [16]. For newcomers, a free eBook is available to guide them through the process of qualifying for a funded account [14].

Advantages and Disadvantages

After reviewing the trial offerings, weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you need structured study material while evaluating, browse our curated strategy-education hub.

LuxAlgo provides tools on TradingView that can complement evaluation-style trading by helping you standardize entries, manage risk, and confirm market context. For example, traders often pair price-action confirmations from Price Action Concepts with signal-based overlays from Signals & Overlays, and trend/money-flow context from Oscillator Matrix.

TopStep provides a 14-day trial with ample virtual funds, supports multiple asset classes, and integrates smoothly with the Market Structure Oscillator for discretionary confirmation—especially when you want to check whether short-, intermediate-, and long-term structure agree before scaling position size.

FTMO also offers a 14-day trial with strict profit targets and risk controls. While the structure enforces discipline, asset selection excludes futures and equities. You can still backtest those asset classes on the AI Backtesting Assistant docs (Fetching Strategies) to locate strategy conditions that historically fit the market you trade most.

AquaFunded stands out with its profit-sharing model, offering splits up to 95 % and a risk-focused platform. Review its fee schedule alongside this risk-management calculator to stay on budget and keep risk-per-trade aligned with your drawdown limits.

Firm Advantages Disadvantages
TopStep Generous virtual funds, supports multiple asset classes Fixed 14-day period may feel restrictive
FTMO Strong reputation, strict evaluation criteria Limited to certain asset types (no futures or stocks)
AquaFunded High profit splits (up to 95 %), risk-focused platform Trial duration details are unclear

These differences underline the importance of choosing a trial that aligns with your trading style and timeline. Tools like the LuxAlgo AI Backtesting Assistant can be a valuable resource to refine your strategies during these trials—especially if you treat rule compliance (daily loss, overall drawdown, minimum days) as part of the “strategy,” not just the entry signal.

Also consider the plan level you’re using while preparing: LuxAlgo’s Free plan provides lifetime access to the indicator Library, while paid plans add more advanced TradingView features and access to AI Backtesting as part of the Ultimate tier. If you want a quick, current breakdown of what’s included and which plan fits your workflow, review LuxAlgo pricing and features before you commit to a long evaluation cycle.

The biggest advantage of these free trials is the ability to test strategies and get comfortable with each platform before committing real money. However, it’s worth noting that simulated trading doesn’t fully capture the emotional and psychological challenges of live markets. Additionally, the strict evaluation criteria may not suit every trader’s natural approach.

When deciding on a trial account, think about your trading style, the assets you prefer, and how much time you need to demonstrate consistency. Leveraging tools like LuxAlgo’s AI Backtesting Assistant during these periods could boost your chances of progressing to a funded account.

Final Thoughts

A thoughtful plan raises your pass odds well above the industry’s 20 percent average. Leverage LuxAlgo’s AI Backtesting Assistant to rehearse rules, then apply them with real-time discipline.

As discussed earlier, it’s essential to match a firm’s evaluation criteria with your own trading style. Look for trial accounts that offer clear rules, align with your preferred timeline, and fit seamlessly into your trading approach.

These trial accounts are more than just practice – they provide insight into whether a firm’s platform and profit-sharing model are a good fit for you. A successful evaluation could lead to meaningful monthly earnings. Use this trial period to set clear objectives, whether you’re trying out a new strategy or evaluating the firm’s process.

FAQs

What are the benefits of using a free trial account with a prop firm before starting a paid challenge?

Using a free trial account with a prop firm comes with some clear advantages. For starters, it gives traders a chance to familiarize themselves with the firm’s platform, rules, and overall trading environment, all without spending a dime. This way, you can see if it fits your trading approach before committing financially, potentially saving both time and money.

Free trials also offer a no-risk way to test and tweak trading strategies in real market conditions. This practical experience can help traders sharpen their skills, build confidence, and be better prepared for evaluation phases or funded accounts. In short, free trials are an excellent way to practice and refine your trading in a stress-free setting.

What are the differences in evaluation processes among the top prop firms, and how do I choose the right one?

Evaluation processes among top proprietary trading firms in 2026 vary widely. Some firms provide more adaptable evaluation paths, while others adhere to a rigid two-phase system. Important aspects to weigh include the length of the evaluation, profit targets, risk management rules (such as the 2 % rule), and the overall challenge level.

When deciding on a firm, think about how their evaluation process matches your trading style, risk appetite, and long-term goals. Additionally, take into account the firm’s reputation, the level of trader support they offer, and their evaluation pass rate – typically low, hovering around 5-10 %. Picking the right firm can play a crucial role in building a successful trading career.

What are the downsides of using free trial accounts to test my trading strategies?

Free trial accounts are a great way to get hands-on experience with trading, but they do have their drawbacks. For starters, these simulated platforms often fall short of mimicking real market conditions. Things like slippage, execution delays, or sudden price swings – common in actual trading – are usually absent. Because of this, it can be tough to accurately predict how your strategies will perform in a live setting.

Another key difference is the emotional factor. When you’re trading with virtual money, there’s no real financial risk. That lack of pressure can lead to habits or strategies that might not hold up when real money is on the line. This disconnect can sometimes create a false sense of confidence, making the shift from a trial account to live trading more challenging than expected.

References

LuxAlgo Resources

External Resources