FTMO’s 1-Step and 2-Step challenges differ in the evaluation process, daily loss limit, overall loss mechanism and refund terms. The shorter evaluation is not simply the same account with one phase removed.
The selected rules side by side
| Feature | 1-Step | 2-Step |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation phases | One | Two |
| Profit target | 10% | 10%, then 5% |
| Daily maximum loss | 3% | 5% |
| Overall maximum loss | 10%, end-of-day trailing | 10%, static |
| Best Day condition | 50% of positive days’ profit | Not listed in the comparison |
| Entry-fee refund | Not listed as refundable | Listed as 100% refundable under applicable conditions |
| Account types in the comparison | Standard | Standard and Swing |
Sources: FTMO comparison table and FTMO Trading Objectives. Check the live agreement and selected account before purchasing. Prices and promotional discounts are deliberately excluded from this rule comparison.
Our worked example: the same profit, a different floor
Start with hypothetical initial simulated capital of $100,000. A 10% loss allowance is $10,000. Both examples begin with a $90,000 overall floor.
Now assume the highest relevant closing balance becomes $104,000. A static floor tied to the starting amount stays $90,000. In an end-of-day trailing example using a fixed $10,000 allowance, the new floor becomes $94,000. If the next closing balance falls to $103,000, a floor that can only move upwards stays $94,000.
At $103,000 current equity, those overall gaps are $13,000 and $9,000 respectively. Both accounts also have a daily rule. These calculations compare mechanisms; they do not estimate a return or define a safe trade size.
A consistency condition can delay completion
For an original hypothetical 50% Best Day calculation, suppose positive days contribute $4,000 and $2,000. The best day is $4,000 / $6,000 = 66.67%. At a 50% threshold, the denominator would need to reach at least $8,000 if that best-day result stays unchanged.
Use the provider’s definition of the denominator. Positive-days profit and net profit after losing days are not interchangeable. FTMO’s 1-Step explanation says exceeding its Best Day proportion is not itself a breach, but the condition still has to be fulfilled.
What this comparison cannot establish
Neither the number of phases nor a headline profit split proves suitability, payout reliability or legal eligibility. Read the trading restrictions, reward agreement, region restrictions and treatment of open positions for the specific product. FTMO describes its evaluation as simulated trading, so the account label is not a withdrawable cash deposit. Source: FTMO process.
Frequently asked questions
Do both challenges use the same drawdown type?
No. FTMO’s current comparison labels 2-Step as static and 1-Step as end-of-day trailing.
Can I use this CFD comparison for FTMO Futures?
No. Futures has separate product rules. Open its specific objectives and agreement.
Which version should I buy?
This page does not choose a product for you. Compare all applicable rules, costs and eligibility, then review the actual agreement.
Continue with the evidence
Read the preserved FTMO profile, use the cost calculator, or compare selected static drawdown programmes.
