Prop Firm Scaling Plans Compared (2026)
A scaling plan determines how much your funded account can grow over time. Some firms cap you at $100K-$400K forever. Others scale to $4M or more. If you plan to make funded trading a career, the scaling ceiling matters enormously.
Scaling Plans Compared
| Firm | Max Scaling | How It Works | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| FTUK | $4,800,000 | Account doubles at 10% profit | Hit 10% milestone |
| The 5%ers | $4,000,000 | Account doubles at milestones | Progressive profit targets |
| CTI | $4,000,000 | Account doubles at 10% profit | Hit 10% milestone |
| Apex | $300,000 | Fixed maximum | N/A |
| FTMO | $400,000 | +25% per milestone | 10% profit over 4 months |
| My Funded Futures | $150,000 | Account size fixed | $100K payout cap |
| Topstep | $150,000 | Account size fixed | N/A |
| FundingPips | Varies | Program dependent | Varies |
| Audacity Capital | $2,000,000 | Progressive scaling | 10% profit milestones |
The Three Scaling Models
1. Account Doubling
FTUK, The 5%ers, and CTI double your account every time you hit a 10% profit target. Starting at $14K (FTUK), the path to $4.8M takes approximately 8-9 doubling events.
2. Incremental Growth
FTMO increases your account by 25% at each milestone. From $200K, the path to $400K requires two scale-ups. This is more conservative but also faster per step.
3. Fixed Account (No Scaling)
Topstep and My Funded Futures give you a fixed account size. Your balance doesn't grow beyond the initial allocation. You extract value through payouts, not account growth.
Which Model Is Best?
For career traders: Account doubling. The path from $14K to $4.8M (FTUK) or $5K to $4M (The 5%ers) creates a genuine career trajectory.
For income traders: Fixed accounts with fast payouts. My Funded Futures and Topstep focus on consistent payouts rather than growing account size.
For growth-focused traders: FTMO's incremental model balances growth and accessibility.
How Long Does Scaling Take?
Assuming consistent 5% monthly returns:
- FTUK $14K to $4.8M: approximately 16-18 months of profitable trading
- The 5%ers $5K to $4M: approximately 20-24 months
- FTMO $200K to $400K: approximately 8 months
These are optimistic estimates. Real-world scaling typically takes 2-4 years.
FAQ
Which firm has the highest scaling ceiling?
FTUK at $4,800,000. The 5%ers and CTI follow at $4,000,000.
Do I have to scale?
No. You can trade at your current level indefinitely and take payouts.
Can I start with a large account?
Yes. FTMO offers $200K starting accounts. Apex goes up to $300K.
Does scaling change my rules?
At most firms, the rules stay the same as your account grows. Check your specific firm's terms.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Trading involves risk of loss.