Topstep, one of the original futures prop firms and a long-time competitor to Apex Trader Funding, has announced a comprehensive redesign of its Combine evaluation program. The overhaul introduces extended time limits, new account tiers, and a revamped scaling plan that addresses longstanding trader feedback about the pace of account growth.
What's Changed in the New Combine
FundCoupon has reviewed Topstep's official announcement and trader community reactions to identify the most significant changes to the program structure.
- Extended time limit: The Combine now has no time limit (previously 60 days for most tiers)
- New account tiers: $15K and $75K sizes added alongside existing $50K and $150K
- Scaling plan upgrade: Funded traders can now unlock additional capital after 30 profitable days (down from 45)
- Profit split: Increased to 90% for all funded accounts (from 80% for lower tiers)
- Monthly reset option: Traders can reset their Combine for a reduced fee rather than repurchasing
Removing the time limit from Topstep's Combine is the single biggest change — it fundamentally eliminates the 'race against the clock' pressure that caused many traders to fail.
Context: Topstep vs Apex in the Futures Market
Topstep's redesign comes directly in response to competitive pressure from Apex Trader Funding, which surpassed 50,000 active funded accounts and has been growing at Topstep's expense. While Topstep was the pioneer of the retail futures prop model, Apex's lower evaluation fees and simpler structure attracted a massive wave of new traders away from Topstep beginning in 2023.
Trader Community Reaction
Reaction to the Combine redesign in futures trading communities has been broadly positive, with particular enthusiasm for the removal of time limits and the upgraded profit split. Some traders have noted that the $15K account tier fills a gap for beginner futures traders who found the previous $50K minimum too capital-intensive in feel.
- Reddit r/Daytrading: 'The time limit removal changes everything for patient systematic traders'
- Twitter/X: Topstep trending positively for the first time in months after announcement
- Discord communities: $15K tier seen as ideal entry point for new CME futures traders
FundCoupon tracks all Topstep promotions and discount codes. If you're considering the new Combine, check our listings for any active Topstep offers before signing up. We also list comparable futures prop firms alongside Topstep for easy comparison.
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