Since its launch in 2015, FTMO has dominated the proprietary trading space, but as we enter 2025, traders are asking: does it still deserve its crown? With new competitors emerging and rule changes implemented, we’ve conducted a comprehensive review of FTMO’s current offering. Whether you’re a forex trader, crypto enthusiast, or indices specialist, this in-depth analysis will help you decide if FTMO remains the best path to funded trading.
FTMO’s 2025 Offering: What’s Changed?
FTMO has made several adjustments to its program over the past year. Here’s what’s new in 2025:
- Increased account sizes: Maximum funding now reaches $400,000 (up from $200,000 in 2023)
- Flexible evaluation periods: Choose between standard (30-day) or extended (60-day) challenges
- Crypto expansion: 15 new cryptocurrency pairs added to the trading instruments
- Improved scaling plan: More aggressive balance growth for consistent performers
FTMO Account Types Comparison (2025)
| Account Size |
Challenge Fee |
Profit Target |
Daily Loss Limit |
Maximum Drawdown |
| $10,000 |
$155 |
10% (Phase 1) + 5% (Phase 2) |
5% |
10% |
| $50,000 |
$345 |
10% + 5% |
5% |
10% |
| $100,000 |
$595 |
10% + 5% |
5% |
10% |
| $200,000 |
$1,050 |
10% + 5% |
5% |
10% |
| $400,000 |
$2,100 |
10% + 5% |
5% |
10% |
How FTMO Compares to Other Prop Firms in 2025
While FTMO remains popular, several competitors have emerged with compelling offers. Here’s how they stack up:
FTMO vs. Top Alternatives (2025)
| Feature |
FTMO |
FundedNext |
The5%ers |
SurgeTrader |
| Maximum Funding |
$400,000 |
$300,000 |
$1,280,000 |
$1,000,000 |
| Profit Split |
Up to 90% |
80%-90% |
50%-100% |
75%-90% |
| Evaluation Stages |
2 phases |
1 phase |
Growth plan |
1-step audit |
| Time Limit |
30/60 days |
Unlimited |
Unlimited |
30 days |
| Refundable Fee |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Pros and Cons of FTMO in 2025
Advantages
- Industry-leading reputation: 9 years of proven payouts
- Transparent rules: Clear trading objectives and parameters
- High profit splits: Up to 90% for top performers
- Educational resources: Free trading psychology courses and webinars
- Flexible trading styles: Allows news trading, overnight holds, and limited EA use
Drawbacks
- Strict drawdown rules: Combined daily/maximum drawdown can be challenging
- No instant funding: Must pass evaluation first
- Limited instruments: Still no individual stock trading
- High fees for large accounts: $2,100 for $400k challenge
- No Mac platform: MetaTrader 4/5 only (Windows required)
FTMO Payouts and Withdrawals: 2025 Update
FTMO’s payout system remains one of its strongest features. In 2025, they’ve implemented:
- Faster processing: Withdrawals now processed within 24-48 hours (down from 3-5 days)
- New payment methods: Added USDC and USDT crypto payouts
- Bi-weekly payouts: Request withdrawals every 14 days (unchanged)
According to our research across trader forums and prop firm payout reviews, FTMO maintains a 98% on-time payment rate, with only rare delays during extreme market volatility.
Who Should Choose FTMO in 2025?
FTMO remains ideal for:
- Traders who prefer clear, structured evaluation criteria
- Those comfortable with the two-phase challenge process
- Forex and commodities traders (less ideal for stock traders)
- Disciplined traders who can manage the 5% daily drawdown limit
However, if you’re looking for instant funding programs or prefer trading individual stocks, you might consider alternatives like The5%ers or SurgeTrader.
FTMO Review 2025: Frequently Asked Questions
Is FTMO legit in 2025?
Yes, FTMO remains a legitimate proprietary trading firm with thousands of funded traders and consistent payouts since 2015. They’re regulated as a financial education company in Europe.
What’s the success rate for FTMO challenges?
FTMO reports a 15-20% pass rate for their evaluation challenges. Our independent analysis of trader communities suggests similar numbers, with most failures occurring due to drawdown violations rather than missing profit targets.
Can I use expert advisors (EAs) with FTMO?
Yes, FTMO allows limited EA use, but they must comply with all trading rules. High-frequency trading and arbitrage strategies remain prohibited.
How often can I scale my FTMO account?
In 2025, FTMO offers balance growth every 4 months for consistent performers. The maximum growth per step is 25% of your current account size.
Does FTMO offer a free trial?
No, but they occasionally run promotions with discounted challenge fees. Follow their newsletter or check our prop firm discounts page for current offers.
Final Verdict: Is FTMO Still Worth It in 2025?
After thorough evaluation, FTMO maintains its position as a top-tier proprietary trading firm, though the competition has certainly narrowed the gap. Its strengths in reputation, payout reliability, and trader support make it an excellent choice for disciplined traders comfortable with its rules.
However, the emergence of firms offering higher funding limits (like The5%ers) or more flexible evaluation processes (like FundedNext) means traders should carefully consider their specific needs before choosing FTMO.
