Master the Rules: Your Ultimate Prop Firm Evaluation Guide.
A successful evaluation starts with understanding the fine print. We break down the key rules, from trailing drawdowns to daily limits.
Detailed Partner Rules Comparison
| Feature | Apex Funding | TakeProfit Trader | Tradeify | Lucid Trading |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drawdown Type | Trailing (Live) | End of Day (EOD) | Trailing / EOD Options | Trailing (Live) |
| Evaluation Steps | 1-Step or 2-Step | 2-Step | 1-Step or 2-Step | 2-Step |
| Profit Split | 90% | 80% | Up to 90% | 80% |
| Max Account Size | $300,000 | $150,000 | $150,000 | $150,000 |
| Direct Funding Available | No | No | Yes | Yes | News Trading | Allowed | Restricted | Allowed | Allowed |
| Link & Details | View Details | View Details | View Details | View Details |
Understanding the Drawdown: Manage Your Risk
The drawdown rule is the single most important factor for success. Don’t risk your account because of a technicality.
⚡ Live Trailing Drawdown
The drawdown limit moves up alongside your highest unrealized equity point. This requires strict trade management and profit-taking discipline, as the drawdown limit can tighten even if you haven’t realized a profit yet. Best for: Experienced, precise execution traders.
📉 End of Day (EOD) Drawdown
This is generally the most beginner-friendly rule. The limit is calculated based on your account balance at the close of the trading day. This offers more cushion against intraday volatility and allows positions to recover from temporary dips. Best for: Swing traders or those seeking less intraday pressure.
🚀 Direct Funding vs. Evaluation
The standard route is passing a skill-based evaluation. However, Direct Funding allows experienced traders to bypass the standard challenge steps by paying a higher initial fee, often based on proof of trading history or successful completion of a competitor’s challenge. Advantage: Immediate access to live capital, ideal for proven professionals seeking to scale quickly.