Explore Topstep's Trading Combine plans tailored for traders of all levels, focusing on risk management and skill development in futures trading.

Looking to become a funded futures trader? Topstep offers a structured path with three Trading Combine plans ($50K, $100K, $150K accounts) tailored to different skill levels. Here’s what you need to know:

Prop Firm Challenge Strategies: How to Pass Futures Evaluations Faster (Using Ready-to-Use Rules)

Prop Firm Challenge Strategies - LuxAlgo Prop Firms Portal

Prop firm evaluations aren’t won by “more trades” or “more aggression”—they’re won by repeatable execution. The fastest way to improve your odds is to trade a defined ruleset that’s designed around how challenges are actually scored: profit targets, trailing drawdown rules, consistency targets, and contract limits.

That’s why LuxAlgo built a dedicated portal where you can quickly access ready-to-use prop firm strategies and firm-specific details in one place. Instead of building from scratch, you can visit the LuxAlgo website and explore strategies that:

  • Have proven to work in the past across historical market conditions
  • Would have passed historical challenges when applied with the right sizing and discipline
  • Have a higher probability of passing current challenges because they’re rooted in repeatable rules and risk controls

On the LuxAlgo prop firm strategies page, you can quickly navigate to the firm you care about and find structured guidance around evaluation rules, constraints, and how to align your trading plan to them. This is especially useful when you’re trying to avoid common failure points like oversized positions, inconsistent “one big day” performance, or giving back gains after reaching a payout threshold.

How to access strategies quickly: go to the LuxAlgo prop firms portal, select your prop firm, and use the firm’s page to jump straight into actionable strategy ideas, evaluation context, and key rules you should design around. If you’re comparing options, the portal also makes it easy to evaluate firms side-by-side without hunting through scattered pages.

Discounts (when relevant): the LuxAlgo prop firms portal can also surface offers and promotions so you can potentially access high discounts on evaluations and resets when they’re available. Because prop firm promotions change frequently, the best move is to check the firm page directly through the portal to find the highest available discount at the time.

Suggested Strategies

Suggested Prop Firm Strategies - LuxAlgo Prop Firms Portal

When you’re choosing what to trade in a challenge, prioritize strategies built around controlled drawdowns, clear invalidation, and repeatable entries (so you don’t have to “force” setups). The LuxAlgo portal helps you get there faster by making it easy to explore strategy structures and firm-specific constraints from one central page: LuxAlgo prop firm strategies.

  • Small-account discipline: focus on tight sizing rules and strict stop logic to avoid trailing drawdown violations.
  • Consistency-first execution: avoid outsized “hero” days that fail consistency targets and instead aim for repeatable daily progress.
  • Rules-based entries: use objective confirmations so you can execute with less hesitation and fewer emotional overrides.
  • Small Combine: $50K account, $49/month, $3,000 profit target, $2,000 max loss limit.
  • Medium Combine: $100K account, $99/month, $6,000 profit target, $3,000 max loss limit.
  • Large Combine: $150K account, $149/month, $9,000 profit target, $4,500 max loss limit.

Quick Comparison:

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

2026 pricing note: Topstep now offers two paths for the Trading Combine subscription: a Standard Path (lower monthly cost, then an activation fee after you pass) and a No Activation Fee Path (higher monthly cost, no activation fee after you pass). On the Standard Path, the activation fee is currently listed as $129 when funded. See Topstep’s pricing breakdown for the most current numbers and regional taxes.

Each plan focuses on risk management, discipline, and profit targets. Choose based on your experience, budget, and trading style. If you want to sharpen your process on TradingView, LuxAlgo provides TradingView toolkits, screeners, backtesters, and an AI Backtesting Assistant to help you research and validate rule-based ideas, build consistency, and create real-time alerts for your setups.

Key Stats:

  • Over 10,000 traders advanced to live accounts in 2024.
  • 81,177 payouts made in 2024 alone.
  • Trustpilot reviews for Topstep (TrustScore changes over time).

Start small, manage risk, and grow your trading skills with Topstep.

Topstep: everything you need to know (rules, how to pass, and pros & cons)

1. Small Combine Plan

The Small Combine Plan is Topstep’s starting point for traders interested in prop trading. It’s a beginner-friendly option that lets you showcase your trading skills in a simulated environment.

Account Size

With $50,000 in buying power, this plan is the most accessible among Topstep’s three Trading Combine accounts. It allows traders to explore a range of futures contracts while maintaining a focus on risk management.

Monthly Fee

The plan costs $49 per month on Topstep’s Standard Path. Additional costs and options may include:

  • A one-time activation fee after passing the Combine (Standard Path)
  • Level 2 (Depth of Market) data upgrades (if you choose to use DOM-style execution)
  • Reset fees if you need to restart the evaluation

Level 1 market data is included, and Topstep outlines current pricing for subscriptions, activation fees, resets, and data upgrades in their help center. [Topstep pricing]

Key Features

To qualify for funding, traders must achieve a $3,000 profit target, which equals a 6% return. Position sizes are capped at 5 contracts, encouraging disciplined trading and reducing the risk of overexposure. The plan also includes access to Topstep’s educational resources and coaching, which can help newer traders build better habits.

"The Trading Combine is an experiential learning and evaluation program for futures traders. Traders grow and test their skills in simulated markets, and earn funding upon achieving certain trading objectives." - Topstep [2]

Risk and Reward Balance

This plan emphasizes a conservative approach to risk, with a $2,000 maximum loss limit. One important nuance: Topstep’s Maximum Loss Limit is calculated off your end-of-day account balance high (a trailing-style threshold that updates after the trading day). That structure rewards consistency and makes it harder to “YOLO” your way through the evaluation. Topstep explains the Maximum Loss Limit calculation here.

With a $3,000 profit target and a $2,000 maximum risk, the reward-to-risk ratio stands at 1.5:1. (If you prefer a deeper definition of risk/reward as a concept, Investopedia has a solid explainer: risk/reward ratio.)

Next, we’ll dive into the Medium Combine Plan, which offers expanded opportunities for traders looking to advance.

2. Medium Combine Plan

The Medium Combine Plan is designed for traders who need more buying power than the entry-level option but aren’t ready to commit to the largest account size. It offers more flexibility to size positions responsibly and test varied approaches, especially if you already trade with a defined rule set.

Account Size

This plan provides $100,000 in buying power, double the amount offered by the Small Combine Plan. This increased capital allows traders to diversify across multiple futures markets while keeping risk under control [1].

Monthly Fee

The cost for the Medium Combine Plan is $99 per month on the Standard Path. If you prefer to pay more up front to avoid an activation fee later, Topstep also offers a higher-priced subscription option (No Activation Fee Path) that removes the activation fee after passing [Topstep pricing].

Key Features

To qualify for funding, traders need to hit a $6,000 profit target, which represents a 6% return. The plan supports a maximum position size of 10 contracts [1], offering flexibility for larger trades. Plus, there’s no time limit, so traders can focus on building consistent performance without worrying about deadlines.

Risk and Reward Balance

The plan’s structure includes a $3,000 maximum loss limit, creating a 2:1 reward-to-risk ratio when paired with the $6,000 profit target. For newer TopstepX accounts, it’s also worth noting a key rule update: starting August 25, 2024, new or reset TopstepX Trading Combine and Express Funded accounts are created without the Daily Loss Limit objective (while other platforms may still have it). [Trading Combine parameters]

3. Large Combine Plan

The Large Combine Plan is Topstep’s top-tier option, designed for seasoned traders who want more buying power and room to execute more complex strategies—without abandoning strict risk parameters.

Account Size

With $150,000 in buying power, this plan provides significantly more capital compared to the lower-tier options [1]. It allows traders to spread strategies across various futures markets while maintaining smart risk management practices.

Monthly Fee

The plan costs $149 per month on the Standard Path [Topstep pricing], giving traders access to substantial capital at a predictable subscription price.

What sets this plan apart is not just the buying power but also the potential to scale a disciplined approach once you transition beyond evaluation.

Key Features

To qualify, traders must achieve a $9,000 profit target (equivalent to a 6% return) while adhering to a maximum of 15 contracts [1]. The plan also offers access to TopstepX™, which includes integrated TradingView charting and features like The Tilt™ indicator and built-in trade management tools. If you use TradingView heavily, it’s helpful that Topstep continues to invest in TopstepX as its primary platform path [Topstep platform notes].

If you also run multiple markets or timeframes, LuxAlgo’s Multi-Chart Widget can help you monitor correlated futures markets and higher-timeframe context without constantly flipping layouts.

Risk and Reward Balance

This plan incorporates a structured risk management system with a $4,500 maximum loss limit, creating a 2:1 reward-to-risk ratio when paired with the $9,000 profit target [Maximum Loss Limit]. This balance aligns with Topstep’s emphasis on consistency and controlled drawdowns, not just raw P&L swings.

Plan Comparison: Pros and Cons

Topstep Trading Combine offers a range of plans tailored to different trading styles, experience levels, and goals. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which plan aligns best with your trading capital, risk tolerance, and profit objectives.

Feature Small Combine ($50K) Medium Combine ($100K) Large Combine ($150K)
Monthly Cost (Standard Path) $49 $99 $149
Profit Target $3,000 $6,000 $9,000
Maximum Loss Limit $2,000 $3,000 $4,500
Contract Limit 5 contracts 10 contracts 15 contracts

Let’s explore the strengths and challenges of each plan.

Small Combine Highlights

The $50K plan is the most budget-friendly option with a monthly fee of just $49. Its $3,000 profit target makes it accessible to newer traders or those with limited capital. However, the constraints are notable: a $2,000 maximum loss limit and a 5-contract cap. These restrictions demand careful risk management and limit diversification, which might be challenging for traders still refining their strategies.

Medium Combine: The Balanced Choice

At $99 per month, the $100K plan offers a middle ground between affordability and flexibility. Traders can work with a $6,000 profit target, a $3,000 loss limit, and up to 10 contracts. This added flexibility allows for broader strategies compared to the Small Combine while still maintaining risk controls. However, the higher monthly fee might feel like a stretch for those still working on consistent profitability.

Large Combine: Advanced Features for Experienced Traders

The $150K plan is geared toward seasoned traders who need more room to execute complex strategies. With a $9,000 profit target, a $4,500 loss limit, and a 15-contract cap, this plan offers significant trading potential. That said, the $149 monthly fee is the highest, which could make it less appealing for beginners or those hesitant about a larger financial commitment.

The 6% Target: A Shared Goal with Unique Challenges

All three plans aim for a 6% return, but the dollar amounts vary significantly. The higher profit targets in the Medium and Large Combines come with added challenges, as managing larger positions and higher loss limits typically requires more discipline and experience. Topstep also uses a Consistency Target (your best day can’t exceed 50% of your profit target), which is designed to discourage one-hit-wonder passes and encourage repeatable execution [Consistency Target].

"Topstep has taught me many things over the last few years. I transformed as a trader." - Jay [1]

Finally, remember to account for the total cost of participation, including the subscription path you choose (Standard vs. No Activation Fee), plus any optional data upgrades you need for your style of execution [Topstep pricing].

How to Choose the Right Plan

Picking the right Topstep Trading Combine plan starts with a good, honest look at where you stand as a trader. It’s not just about the monthly price—it’s about matching your skills and goals with a plan that makes sense for you.

Start with Your Trading Experience

If you’re new to trading (less than six months of experience), the Small Combine is a smart choice. With a $3,000 profit target, it’s designed to teach crucial risk management skills without putting too much financial pressure on you.

For those with 6–12 months of experience and a few profitable months under their belt, the Medium Combine at $99/month offers a great middle ground. It allows up to 10 contracts and sets a $6,000 profit target, giving you room to try out different strategies while keeping risks manageable.

Experienced traders with a proven track record should look at the Large Combine for $149/month. This plan is more demanding, with a $9,000 profit target and a $4,500 maximum loss limit. It’s ideal for traders who already have strong discipline and advanced risk management skills.

Evaluate Your Financial Comfort Zone

Think about your budget for trading. If $149/month feels like a stretch, it’s better to go with a less expensive plan. Financial stress can cloud your decision-making, leading to poor trades. A good rule of thumb: your subscription fee should be no more than 10–15% of your overall trading budget. For instance, if you’ve set aside $1,000 for trading expenses, the $99 Medium Combine fits comfortably, leaving room for other software, data, and education.

Assess Your Risk Management Skills

Topstep’s Maximum Loss Limit is calculated based on your end-of-day balance high, which can feel more forgiving than an intraday trailing drawdown, but it still punishes reckless sizing and big givebacks [Maximum Loss Limit]. Before committing to a plan, ask yourself:

  • Can you consistently string together profitable months?
  • Do you have enough funds (and emotional bandwidth) to weather inevitable losing days? [7]

The Trading Combine isn’t just about hitting profit targets—it’s a test of your discipline and ability to manage risk consistently.

Consider Your Trading Style and Goals

Your trading style plays a big role in choosing the right plan. For instance, day traders who rely on quick scalping strategies might find the 5-contract limit in the Small Combine too restrictive. On the other hand, swing traders or those with a longer-term approach might find it works just fine. Matching the plan to your style and goals ensures you’re setting yourself up for success.

Factor in the Total Investment

Don’t forget about extra costs like data upgrades. Topstep’s help center lists Level 1 data as included and a Level 2 upgrade (Depth of Market) as an optional paid add-on [Topstep pricing]. These extras can make a difference in your overall expenses.

Starting with a slightly conservative plan is often the best move. You can always upgrade once you’ve proven your skills and feel ready to take on more. The goal isn’t just to pass the evaluation—it’s to build confidence and develop habits that lead to long-term trading success.

Using LuxAlgo TradingView Toolkits and the AI Backtesting Assistant for Prop Firm Success

LuxAlgo Toolkits

Passing Topstep’s Trading Combine requires a systematic approach and disciplined risk management—two components that align perfectly with Topstep’s emphasis on measurable objectives and consistency. Here’s how LuxAlgo can support your process throughout the evaluation.

Strategy Development with AI Backtesting

LuxAlgo’s AI Backtesting Assistant helps you explore and refine rule-based strategies with the goal of finding approaches that fit Topstep’s profit targets and loss limits. For example, if you’re working toward the Small Combine’s $3,000 target, you can stress-test entry/exit logic and risk sizing across different market regimes before you ever execute it live.

If you want a deeper look at how the AI agent workflow works (and what to test for), this breakdown is a useful starting point: LuxAlgo Backtesting AI Chat: Complete Breakdown.

Real-Time Alerts and Market Screening

During Topstep’s evaluation, staying focused on high-probability setups is crucial. LuxAlgo’s TradingView toolkits—Price Action Concepts (PAC), Signals & Overlays (S&O), and Oscillator Matrix (OSC)—are designed to help traders structure charts, filter conditions, and automate notifications so you’re not reacting emotionally to every candle. When you pair alerts with strict sizing rules, it becomes easier to stay within contract limits and avoid impulsive overtrading.

If you want to incorporate systematic rules into what you trade (instead of “vibes”), using a repeatable market checklist and alert conditions can help you minimize decision fatigue—especially on days where volatility spikes or price chops.

Community Support and Strategy Sharing

Evaluations can be mentally taxing because the rules are tight and performance is measured. One practical edge is getting feedback on your process (not just entries) and comparing notes on what helps traders stay consistent. That includes risk templates, journaling structure, and pre-trade checklists.

Pricing That Works with Your Trading Budget

LuxAlgo offers two subscription tiers designed to complement evaluation-style trading budgets. The Premium plan is $39.99/month and includes advanced TradingView signals, alerts, and oscillator tools. The Ultimate plan is $59.99/month and includes access to the AI Backtesting Assistant Backtesting Assistant documentation. (If you’re tracking budgets tightly, it helps to treat the Combine subscription, data, and your analytics stack as one combined cost center.)

Practical Application for Topstep Success

Selecting the right LuxAlgo features for your Topstep plan can make a significant difference. If you’re tackling the Large Combine with a $9,000 profit target, the AI Backtesting Assistant can help you compare strategy variants and identify which one holds up across more samples, then translate that into TradingView execution rules. If you’re on a smaller plan, focusing on alerts and strict position sizing often matters more than adding complexity.

For strategy research, one useful workflow is: (1) define the entry/exit rules, (2) test multiple market conditions, (3) lock position sizing rules, then (4) convert the final rules into alerts so execution stays consistent. If you want to pull candidate strategies into your research faster, this doc is helpful: Fetching Strategies.

Conclusion

The Trading Combine process is all about fostering disciplined and consistent trading habits. With a variety of Topstep Trading Combine plans tailored for everyone, from newcomers to experienced traders, choosing the right plan is the first step toward achieving success in prop trading.

Your results hinge on aligning your plan with your trading background and financial goals. Topstep’s step-by-step scaling model encourages steady growth through disciplined progress [10]. It’s also worth staying current on platform rules: Topstep’s help center notes that TopstepX accounts created new or reset after August 25, 2024 are created without the Daily Loss Limit objective for Trading Combines and Express Funded Accounts [Trading Combine parameters].

After selecting the plan that matches your needs, the focus shifts to refining your strategy. LuxAlgo provides TradingView toolkits and an AI Backtesting Assistant to help structure your process: research, define rules, validate performance, and then use alerts to stay consistent. If you want to go deeper on pure technical analysis concepts (for market context and structured chart reading), this hub is a solid reference: LuxAlgo technical analysis guides.

FAQs

How do I choose the right Combine plan at Topstep?

When deciding between the Small, Medium, and Large Combine plans at Topstep, it’s important to weigh your trading experience, risk tolerance, and financial goals. Smaller plans come with lower costs and simpler profit targets, making them a solid choice for those just starting out. Meanwhile, larger plans provide access to bigger account sizes and the potential for higher earnings, but they demand more consistency, advanced risk management, and the ability to handle higher trading volumes.

Think about how comfortable you are trading larger sums and how much time and effort you can commit to managing these accounts. Choose the plan that best matches your current skill set and trading goals to set yourself up for success.

What is the risk-to-reward balance in Topstep Trading Combine plans, and why does it matter?

The risk-to-reward balance in Topstep Trading Combine plans is about how traders handle potential losses compared to their expected gains on each trade. For example, a trader might use a ratio like risking $50 to aim for a $150 profit. The idea is simple: ensure the potential reward is greater than the risk.

This concept is crucial because it helps traders safeguard their capital while working toward steady profits. By sticking to a disciplined risk management strategy, traders increase their chances of passing the evaluation phase and setting themselves up for long-term success in the Combine plans.

How can LuxAlgo help me create a winning strategy for the Topstep Trading Combine?

LuxAlgo can play a key role in refining your trading strategy during the Topstep Trading Combine. By supporting advanced technical analysis and real-time market signals on TradingView, it can help you stay structured in fast-paced environments. Capabilities like clearer volatility context and rule-based entry and exit logic can help you make decisions more consistently while keeping risk contained.

What’s more, LuxAlgo supports both short-term and long-term trading styles, making it easier to create strategies that align with the Combine’s objectives. When paired with disciplined risk management and thorough backtesting, these features can improve your odds of navigating the evaluation process.

References

LuxAlgo

External Resources