FundingPips vs E8 Markets – Two-Step Evaluations
For traders seeking a funded account, the two-step evaluation is the industry standard. Both FundingPips and E8 Markets offer robust programs, but their philosophies, rules, and long-term value propositions differ significantly. This deep dive goes beyond the surface to dissect every critical aspect, helping you make a strategically informed decision.
Program Philosophy: How Each Firm Thinks
FundingPips: The “Proving Ground to Partnership” Model
FundingPips structures its two-step program as a rigorous but fair proving ground. The goal is not just to pass but to demonstrate consistency and risk management worthy of a long-term partnership. This is evidenced by their scaling plan that increases not only your capital but also your drawdown limits and profit share, culminating in the “Hot Seat” with a monthly salary. It’s a career path.
E8 Markets: The “Efficient & Empowered” Model
E8 Markets focuses on efficiency and trader empowerment. Their E8 Classic program is designed to be a streamlined, straightforward path to funding. By eliminating friction points like minimum trading days, they empower traders to pass at their own pace. The model is built on a high, fixed profit split and clear, compounding scaling, putting the trader in control from the start.
Phase-by-Phase Objective Analysis
Let’s break down the journey to becoming funded, phase by phase.
| Phase | FundingPips Two-step Evaluation | E8 Markets E8 Classic | Strategic Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 Profit Target | 8% | 8% | Identical starting hurdle. Both firms require a solid initial performance. |
| Phase 2 Profit Target | 5% | 4% Lower | Key difference. E8’s lower final target is psychologically and technically easier. |
| Total Profit Required | 13% | 12% Lower | Small on paper, meaningful under pressure. |
| Max Daily Loss | 5% | 4% Stricter | E8 demands tighter daily risk control; FundingPips gives more day-to-day room. |
| Max Loss | 10% | 8% Stricter | FundingPips allows deeper drawdowns (more recovery room, but closer to the edge). |
The Deal-Breaker: Time & Trading Constraints
This is often the most decisive factor for traders.
| Constraint | FundingPips | E8 Markets | Impact on Your Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Trading Days | 3 Calendar Days (Per Phase) | None Freedom | Fundamental differentiator. FundingPips enforces consistency; E8 enables a skilled trader to pass quickly. |
| Maximum Trading Period | Unlimited | Unlimited | No ticking clock. Both remove the pressure of 30-day limits. |
Funded Account Terms: The Real Earning Potential
Reaching a funded account is just the beginning. The real test is how you are treated as a funded trader.
| Feature | FundingPips Two-step Evaluation | E8 Markets E8 Classic | Long-Term Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profit Split | 60% (Weekly) → 80% (Bi-weekly) → 100% (Monthly) Higher Ceiling | 80% (Fixed) Simple | FundingPips has higher upside; E8 is better immediately and requires no cycle management. |
| Scaling Plan | Comprehensive: Account size + Drawdowns + Profit Split all increase. | Direct: Account size increases via profit compounding (drawdown can scale too). | FundingPips is more transformative; E8 is simpler and effective. |
| Payout Frequency | First payout on first Tuesday. Then Weekly/Bi-weekly/Monthly. Flexible | First payout after 8 calendar days. Then Bi-weekly. | FundingPips offers more frequent payout options. |
| Leverage | Up to 1:100 Higher | Up to 1:50 | FundingPips advantage for strategies needing higher leverage. |
Pricing & Affordability
This is a practical consideration that cannot be ignored.
| Account Size | FundingPips Price | E8 Markets Price | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| $25,000 | $156 Cheaper | $228 | +$72 for E8 |
| $50,000 | $266 Cheaper | $338 | +$72 for E8 |
| $100,000 | $444 Cheaper | $588 | +$144 for E8 |
Final Strategic Conclusion: Who Is Each Program For?
Choose FundingPips’ Two-step Evaluation if you are the “Long-Term Grinder”
- You are highly cost-conscious and want the most affordable evaluation fee.
- Your strategy requires high leverage (1:100).
- You are motivated by long-term goals (100% split + monthly salary).
- You don’t mind the 3-day minimum trading rule and may even see it as beneficial discipline.
- You want comprehensive scaling that grows capital, risk limits, and profit share.
Choose E8 Markets’ E8 Classic if you are the “Efficient Professional”
- Speed and flexibility are top priorities; no minimum trading days is non-negotiable.
- You prefer stricter risk parameters (4%/8%) for a tighter safety net.
- You value a simple, fixed 80% split from day one (no cycle management).
- You are willing to pay a premium for speed, autonomy, and stricter risk buffers.
- You prefer a streamlined, professional dashboard and experience.
Beyond the Two-Step: Final Verdict and Strategic Choice
While the two-step evaluation is a core offering, your choice of a prop firm should also consider the bigger picture. Both FundingPips and E8 Markets offer a diverse ecosystem of programs. Your ideal firm isn’t just about one challenge; it’s about the long-term partnership and opportunities it provides.
The Big Picture: Unique Programs & Overall Ecosystem
| Program Type | FundingPips | E8 Markets | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Step Evaluation | ✅ (One-step Evaluation) | ✅ (E8 One & E8 Pro) More Variety | E8 offers multiple structures (e.g., trailing drawdown, daily profit cap) for different styles. |
| Instant Funding | ✅ (Zero Program) Unique | ❌ | FundingPips’ Zero Program can skip evaluation with specific rules like consistency. |
| Three-Step Evaluation | ❌ | ✅ (E8 Track & E8 Track 1:1) Unique | E8 offers a gradual path to very large accounts (up to $400k). |
| Free Trial / Test Drive | ❌ | ✅ (Free Trial) Huge Value | Try the platform and rules risk-free before paying. |
| Customization | ❌ | ✅ (Extensive Customization) Personalized | Tailor drawdown, split, and even targets to fit your profile. |
The Trust & Community Factor
A prop firm is only as good as its reputation for paying out.
| Aspect | FundingPips | E8 Markets | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trustpilot Score | 4.4/5 (from 22,745 reviews) | 4.3/5 (from 2,641 reviews) | Both have excellent ratings. FundingPips shows larger community volume. |
| Community Sentiment | Very large, active, enthusiastic community (Discord). | Known for professional service, quick support, clean dashboard. | FundingPips is “viral community”; E8 is “professional reliability”. |
| Payout Proof | Abundant proofs and interviews shared across social media. | Strong proofs shared on Telegram; smooth withdrawals emphasis. | Both are widely considered trustworthy and reliable payers. |
Strategic Decision Matrix: Making Your Final Choice
You Should Choose FundingPips If…
- Your #1 priority is maximum long-term earning potential (100% split + salary) or lowest entry cost.
- Your trading style requires high leverage (1:100) or you want instant funding (Zero Program).
- You value a vibrant community and gamified progression.
- You are okay with minimum trading-day rules and a lower starting split (60%) that must be earned up.
You Should Choose E8 Markets If…
- Your #1 priority is maximum flexibility & speed (no minimum trading days) or deep customization.
- Your style benefits from tighter drawdown rules and you want a risk-free free trial first.
- You want a high fixed profit split (80%) from day one with a professional experience.
- You are okay paying a premium and don’t need instant funding.
The Final, Final Word
Imagine the choice as selecting a vehicle for a long journey:
FundingPips is like a moddable performance car. You start with a solid, affordable base model. Through skill and consistency, you unlock upgrades—more power, better suspension, a premium interior (more capital, higher drawdown, 100% split). The journey of building it is part of the appeal.
E8 Markets is like a luxury SUV off the lot. You pay more, but you immediately get premium features: all-wheel drive (safety net), a comfortable interior (excellent dashboard), and the freedom to go anywhere anytime (no minimum days). It’s refined and ready to go.
- Take the E8 Markets Free Trial — it costs nothing and gives direct experience.
- If you love the platform and rules, invest in an E8 Classic evaluation.
- If you prefer a lower-cost path or want instant funding, choose FundingPips.