10 Cheapest Prop Firms 2025 – Best Low-Cost Funded Trading Accounts

Last updated: August 2025

Which Prop Firm Has the Cheapest Challenge in 2025?

If you’re hunting for the cheapest prop firms or just want a cheap way to get funded, Maven Trading tops the list in 2025. You can grab a $2,000 account for $15 (1-step) or a $5,000 account for $22 (2-step) with refundable fees and fair rules. Add coupon code MVN8 and the $5K challenge drops to just $20.24, the lowest legit price you’ll find anywhere.

This guide compares the 10 best low-cost prop trading firms, including fees, refund policies, payout speeds, and coupon codes, so you can start trading with minimal risk.

Comparison Table: Top 10 Low-Cost Prop Firms

Prop Firm	Fee	Account Size	Challenge Type	Coupon Code	Reviews
Maven Trading	$22	$5K	2-step	MVN88% OFF	Maven Review
FundYourFX	$56	$5K	2-step	FUNDEDTRADING1010% OFF	FundYourFX Review
FXIFY	$39	$5K	3-step	FT2020% OFF	FXIFY Review
Alpha Capital	$40	$5K	2-step	FUNDEDTRADING1515% OFF	Alpha Capital Review
Pipfarm	$40	$5K	2-step	FTXPIPFARM20% OFF	PipFarm Review
FundedNext	$32	$5K	2-step	FT55% OFF	FundedNext Review
E8 Markets	$40	$5K	1-step (custom)	FTR55% OFF	E8 Markets Review
Blueberry Funded	$35	$5K	2-step		Blueberry Funded Review
Goat Funded Trader	$23–$33	$5K	2-step		Goat Funded Trader Review
The 5%ers	$39	$5K	2-step		The 5%ers Review

Challenge type:

• 1-step = Pass just one phase (often tougher rules, but faster funding).
  
• 2-step = Standard prop firm challenge; pass two phases for funded status.
  
• 3-step = Extra step, usually for lowest fees, good for learning discipline.

Firm-by-Firm Breakdown: Best For, Pros, Cons, and Unique Features

Each of these prop firms offers a different mix of rules, payout speed, and trader support, don’t just look at price.

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Maven Trading

Best for: Absolute beginners on a budget, lowest cost 2-step challenge

Maven Coupon Code

Always enter coupon code MVN8 at checkout for the extra discount. This lets you start with a $5K funded account for just over $20, the cheapest legit price you’ll find anywhere.

Maven Trading’s 2-step $5K challenge is $22 on MetaTrader 5 or Match-Trader, and $44 on cTrader, offering static 8% drawdown, 8%/5% profit targets, no time limits, and a full fee refund when you pass.

• Fee: $22 (MetaTrader 5 or Match-Trader), $44 (cTrader) for 2-step $5K account
  
• Challenge: 2-step
  
• Profit Targets: 8% (Phase 1: $400), 5% (Phase 2: $250)
  
• Drawdown: 8% static overall ($400); 4% daily ($200)
  
• Refund: 100% fee refunded after passing
  
• Payouts: Every 10 business days
  
• Platforms: MetaTrader 5, Match-Trader, cTrader
  
• Minimum Trading Days: None
  
• Profit Split: Minimum 80%
  
• Special Features:
  
  • Weekend holding allowed
    
  • Swap-free accounts
    
  • Unique buyback feature (get a second chance if you fail)
    
• Pros:
  
  • Cheapest legit 2-step challenge for $5K account
    
  • No time limits, static drawdown, and fast support
    
  • 24/7 live chat; great for new traders
    
• Cons:
  
  • Higher fee for cTrader users ($44)
    
  • Limited scaling vs. big-name firms

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FundYourFX

Best for: Instant funding and no daily drawdown rules

FundYourFX Coupon Code

FundYourFX lets you skip the challenge or do a $5K 2-step for $56. No daily drawdown, instant funding option, and up to 90% profit split. But you can use coupon code FUNDEDTRADING10 to get 10% off. Pay with crypto for an extra 3% discount, bringing your total down to $48.

• Fee: $56 for $5K 2-step
  
• Challenge: 2-step or instant funding (higher fee)
  
• Drawdown: 4% static, no daily drawdown
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Pros:
  
  • Instant funding available
    
  • Flexible rules, no consistency requirements
    
  • Profit split up to 90%
    
• Cons:
  
  • Only Match-Trader platform right now
    
    

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FXIFY

Best for: Customizable 3-step challenge for patient traders

FXIFY Coupon Code

FXIFY offers a 3-step challenge for $39, letting you customize leverage, profit split, and payout frequency with add-ons. But you can use coupon code FT20 at checkout to get 20% off, bringing your price down to just $31.20.

• Fee: $39 for $5K 3-step
  
• Challenge: 3-step
  
• Drawdown: 4% static
  
• Add-ons: Extra cost for features like 90% split
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Pros:
  
  • Unlimited trading days
    
  • Fully customizable
    
  • Refundable fees
    
• Cons:
  
  • Must trade minimum 5 days per phase
    

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Alpha Capital

Best for: Multi-platform access, high leverage, and clear rules

Alpha Capital Coupon Code

Alpha Capital’s $5K Alpha Pro 6% challenge is $40, with up to 1:100 leverage, flexible 1-step or 2-step evaluations, and unlimited trading days. Payouts start biweekly or on-demand with strict, but fair, drawdown and risk rules. But you can use coupon code FUNDEDTRADING15 for 15% off, bringing the price down to just $34.

• Fee: $40 for $5K Alpha Pro 6% (1-step or 2-step)
  
• Challenge: 1-step or 2-step
  
• Profit Target: $300 (6%)
  
• Drawdown: 6% max, 3% daily
  
• Leverage: Up to 1:100 (FX)
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Platforms: MT5, cTrader, DXTrade, TradeLocker
  
• Payouts: Biweekly or 2% on-demand (minimum $100 profit)
  
• Pros:
  
  • Trade on MT5, cTrader, DXTrade, or TradeLocker
    
  • High leverage (up to 1:100 on FX)
    
  • Unlimited days for evaluation
    
  • Consistent payout options and fair commission structure
    
• Cons:
  
  • Performance fee (80%) on Qualified Analyst accounts
    
  • Strict inactivity and risk rules (account closes after 30 days idle or over-risk)

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PipFarm

Best for: Highest profit share and disciplined traders who want to scale fast

PipFarm Coupon Code

PipFarm’s 2-step Consistency challenge costs $40 for a $5K account. Using cTrader only, which explains the slightly higher price. You get a 9% static drawdown, strict daily and consistency rules, and profit splits that can reach up to 99%. But you can use coupon code FTXPIPFARM to get 20% off, bringing your cost down to just $32.

• Fee: $40 for 2-step Consistency account ($5K, cTrader only)
  
• Challenge: 2-step (Stage 1: 9% target, Stage 2: 6% target)
  
• Drawdown: 9% static overall ($450), 3% daily loss limit
  
• Leverage: Up to 1:30 (varies by product)
  
• Profit Split: Up to 99% (scales by experience/rank)
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Consistency Score: 50% required for each stage and payout
  
• Minimum Trading Days: 3 profitable days per stage and between payouts
  
• Payouts: Flexible—multiple payout methods, payout protection if you breach
  
• Platform: cTrader only (reason for higher price)
  
• Scaling: Up to $1.5 million for high performers
  
• Special Features:
  
  • Payout protection: get paid if eligible, even after a breach
    
  • Loyalty and experience rewards program (better profit share, perks as you advance)
    
  • Fastest scaling program in the business
    
• Pros:
  
  • Highest possible profit share in the industry (up to 99%)
    
  • Flexible, fast payouts with payout protection
    
  • Unique rewards and rank system for loyal traders
    
  • Clear, transparent rules—no hidden restrictions
    
• Cons:
  
  • Strict consistency and daily loss rules
    
  • 1:30 leverage for new accounts
    
  • Only available on cTrader, which adds to the price
    

Pro tip:
If you want to chase the highest possible payouts and don’t mind a tough consistency challenge, PipFarm is built for ambitious, rule-following traders who want to scale quickly.

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FundedNext

Best for: High profit splits and lowest entry cost

FundedNext’s $32 “Stellar Lite” challenge has up to 95% split, 8% target, and 24-hour payouts.

• Fee: $32 for $5K 2-step
  
• Challenge: 2-step
  
• Drawdown: 8% static (phase 1: 8%, phase 2: 4%)
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Pros:
  
  • Extremely low entry price
    
  • Up to 95% split
    
  • Payouts in 24 hours
    
• Cons:
  
  • Must trade minimum 5 days per phase
    
  • Add-ons for more flexibility
    

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E8 Markets

Best for: Maximum flexibility and “build your own” funded plan

E8 Coupon Code

E8 Markets’ $5K 1-step challenge costs $40 with an 80% profit split and a 4% trailing drawdown, but you can use coupon code FTR5 for 5% off, bringing the price down to $38.

• Fee: $40 standard; $38 with coupon code FTR5
  
• Challenge: 1-step (customizable)
  
• Drawdown: 4% trailing
  
• Profit Split: 80% base split (can be increased with add-ons)
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Pros:
  
  • Flexible account setup to match your trading style
    
  • Strong base profit split (80%) without add-ons
    
  • Coupon reduces cost to $38 for entry-level plan
    
• Cons:
  
  • Add-ons increase overall cost
    
  • Trailing drawdown is less forgiving than static

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Blueberry Funded

Best for: Traders who want broker-backed trust

Blueberry Funded offers $35 for $5K (2-step), with real broker infrastructure and scaling up to $2M.

• Fee: $35 for $5K 2-step
  
• Challenge: 2-step
  
• Drawdown: 5% static
  
• Scaling: Up to $2M
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Pros:
  
  • Fully regulated broker backing
    
  • Unlimited time for evaluation
    
  • Real execution, low spreads
    
• Cons:
  
  • Leverage capped (1:50 FX, 1:10 indices/commodities)
    

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Goat Funded Trader

Best for: Fastest payouts and lowest-cost 2-step challenge

Goat Funded Trader’s 2-step GOAT challenge is just $25 for MT5 or Match-Trader, and $37 for TradeLocker—all with withdrawals possible after just 3 days and profit splits up to 95%.

• Fee: $25 (MT5), $25 (Match-Trader), $37 (TradeLocker)
  
• Challenge: 2-step GOAT
  
• Drawdown: 4% static
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Payouts: Withdraw after 3 days with 3% profit
  
• Pros:
  
  • Fastest withdrawals (as quick as 3 days)
    
  • No time limits to pass challenge
    
  • Choice of MT5, Match-Trader, or TradeLocker
    
  • Profit split up to 80%- up to 100%
    
• Cons:
  
  • TradeLocker costs more than MT5 or Match-Trader
    
  • Limited scaling compared to larger firms

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The 5%ers

Best for: Traders who want unlimited time and big scaling

The 5%ers stands out with a $39 2-step challenge and unlimited days to pass—scale up to $4M over time.

• Fee: $39 for $5K High-Stakes Challenge
  
• Challenge: 2-step
  
• Drawdown: 4% static
  
• Refund: Yes, after passing
  
• Scaling: Up to $4M possible
  
• Pros:
  
  • No time pressure to pass
    
  • Strong scaling opportunities
    
  • Loads of coaching and education tools
    
• Cons:
  
  • Strict rules around high-impact news trading
    

How Do Cheap Prop Firms Work? (Key Rules, Refunds, Risks)

Cheap prop firms give you a shot at trading firm capital for a low, refundable fee—if you pass their challenge, you get funded. But stricter rules, capped leverage, and limited scaling often apply.

Here’s how it works:

• You pay a small evaluation fee (usually $15–$50 for a $2K–$5K account).
  
• Pass their challenge: Meet profit targets and stay within drawdown/risk rules.
  
• Get a funded account: Once you pass, you trade the firm’s money for a profit split.
  
• Fee refund: Most firms refund your challenge fee if you pass.
  
• Payouts: You keep a share of profits (often 80–95%), and the firm pays out regularly.
  

Example:
You pay $22 for Maven Trading’s $5K challenge. Hit the profit target without breaching the drawdown, and you’ll get funded, with your fee refunded, and a chance to scale up.

Risks to know:

• Stricter rules: Cheaper firms often have tighter drawdown or daily loss limits.
  
• Lower leverage: Many cap leverage at 1:30 or 1:50.
  
• Scaling limits: Cheap accounts rarely offer huge scaling (like $1M+), but they’re perfect for practice and building a track record.
  

What Features Matter Most for Low-Cost Funded Accounts?

To pick the right cheap prop firm, always compare drawdown limits, profit split, payout speed, and refund rules—not just the lowest fee.

Don’t get trapped chasing the absolute lowest price; a $15 challenge isn’t worth it if the rules are impossible or the payouts are slow. Focus on these attributes for a funded account that actually pays and helps you grow:

• Drawdown Rules:
  Static drawdown is usually easier for beginners; trailing drawdown punishes you for open losses. Example: Maven Trading uses 8% overall / 4% daily, while some firms use a trailing system.
  
• Profit Split:
  Check if the firm pays 80%, 90%, or up to 95% of profits. Higher splits mean more of your wins stay in your pocket. FundedNext and Goat Funded Trader offer up to 95% for top performers.
  
• Payout Speed:
  Fastest payouts are 1–3 days (Goat Funded Trader, FundedNext). Others pay out every 7–14 days. If you want cash fast, this matters.
  
• Refund Policy:
  Most legit firms refund your challenge fee after you pass—but some only refund after your first profit withdrawal. Always confirm the fine print.
  
• Account Scaling:
  Some firms cap growth at $50K–$100K; others let you scale up to $1M+ with consistent results. Blueberry Funded and The 5%ers are known for bigger scaling.
  
• Trading Platforms:Choose a firm that supports your preferred platform—MT4, MT5, cTrader, or Match-Trader. Many cheap firms only support one or two.
  

Quick checklist:

1. Compare drawdown (static vs trailing)
   
2. Check payout speed and refund conditions
   
3. Confirm profit split and scaling rules
   
4. Review supported platforms
   
5. Read real user reviews—look for payout complaints
   

Pro tip:
If you’re a new trader, static drawdown and instant or fast payouts matter most. Experienced traders might care more about scaling and higher splits.

How to Pick the Right Cheap Prop Firm (5-Step Checklist)

To choose the best low-cost prop firm, follow these five steps—don’t just grab the lowest price or you’ll regret it.

1. Compare Challenge Rules (Steps & Drawdown):
   Check if it’s a 1-step, 2-step, or 3-step challenge. Fewer steps mean faster funding but often stricter rules. Watch for static vs. trailing drawdown.
   Example: Maven Trading’s 1-step is fast, but their 2-step offers easier targets.
   
2. Review Refund Policy:
   Not every firm refunds your fee the same way. Some require you to hit your first payout, not just pass the challenge.
   Example: The 5%ers and Blueberry Funded refund after your first withdrawal, not just challenge pass.
   
3. Check Payout Speed & Profit Split:
   How fast can you actually get paid, and how much do you keep? Look for firms offering 80–95% profit splits and payouts within 1–14 days.
   Example: FundedNext pays within 24 hours; Goat Funded Trader allows withdrawals after 3 days.
   
4. Confirm Platform Support & Trading Limits:
   Does the firm support your trading platform (MT4, MT5, cTrader)? Are there restricted assets, leverage limits, or banned strategies?
   Example: FundYourFX only offers Match-Trader.
   
5. Read Real User Reviews & Scam Reports:
   Don’t trust official websites alone—search for trader reviews, payout proof, and any scam warnings. Look for forums, Trustpilot, or YouTube testimonials.
   Stat: 63% of failed applicants never checked real user feedback before signing up.
   

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Quick Reference Table

Step	Why It Matters	Example Firm/Rule
Challenge Steps	Fewer steps = faster funding, usually harder	Maven Trading 1-step, FXIFY 3-step
Refund Policy	Some only refund after first withdrawal	The 5%ers, Blueberry Funded
Payout Split	Higher split = more money to you	FundedNext 95%, GOAT up to 100%
Platform	Not all firms offer all platforms	FundYourFX (Match-Trader only)
Reviews	Avoid scams and payout issues	Check Trustpilot, Reddit

Pro Tip:
Test with a $5K account before scaling up. If a firm’s payout is slow, walk away—don’t double down on trouble.

Are Sub-$50 Prop Firms Worth It? (Pros, Cons, Real Stats)

Cheap prop firms under $50 offer legit opportunities for new traders, but you’ll face stricter rules, lower leverage, and limited scaling. Always check refund and payout proof before joining.

Pros of Cheap Prop Firms:

• Low risk, high reward: Start for as little as $15–$50; ideal for beginners or anyone testing new strategies.
  
• Refundable fees: Most top firms refund your challenge fee if you pass and hit payout.
  
• Learn prop trading safely: Gain funded experience without risking personal capital.
  

Cons of Cheap Prop Firms:

• Stricter evaluation rules: Lower fees often mean tougher profit targets, higher minimum days, or tighter drawdown.
  
• Lower leverage on some accounts: Common leverage limits are 1:30 or 1:50, not 1:100+.
  
• Limited scaling: Many cheap firms cap account growth or don’t offer million-dollar scaling.

If you’re just starting out, a sub-$50 prop firm challenge is the best way to dip your toe into funded trading. Treat it like a live-fire practice account. Pass, collect your refund, and only scale up with firms that pay fast and treat traders fairly.

Final Summary

Don’t just chase the lowest price. Pick a prop firm that refunds your fee, pays fast, and matches your trading style. Start small, build your track record, and scale up only after your first payout. Ready to get funded? Compare all the options above and choose the firm that actually fits your goals.

FAQs: Cheapest Prop Firm Questions Answered

Here are the answers to the real questions traders ask about low-cost prop firms in 2025.

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Which prop firm is the cheapest in 2025?

Maven Trading is the cheapest, with $15 for a $2K challenge and $22 for a $5K 2-step (both refundable). Use coupon code MVN8 to drop the $5K price to $20.24.

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How fast do cheap prop firms pay out?

Most firms pay within 1–7 days of your first profit. Goat Funded Trader, E8 Markets, and FundedNext are known for payouts in as little as 24–72 hours.

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Is the challenge fee always refunded if I pass?

If you pass and complete the first withdrawal, top firms like Maven, FundedNext, Blueberry Funded, and PipFarm refund your evaluation fee—check each firm’s refund terms before joining.

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Are cheap prop firms safe or just a scam?

Legit cheap firms exist, but scams pop up every year. Stick to firms with verified Trustpilot reviews and proof of payouts. Avoid companies with payment delays, unclear rules, or no user reviews.

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Can I scale my funded account to $100K or more?

Many $5K–$10K cheap accounts cap at $50K–$100K, but The 5%ers, Blueberry Funded, and PipFarm offer scaling to $1M+ for consistent traders.

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What platform do these prop firms use?

Popular options include MT4, MT5, cTrader, Match-Trader, and DXTrade. Always confirm platform availability before paying.