Topstep Launches New Combine Format with Simplified Rules for 2026
Dr. Algo
Prop Deal Intelligence Hub
Topstep has redesigned its Trading Combine evaluation format for 2026, reducing rule complexity and introducing a new simplified path to funding for futures traders.
Topstep Launches New Combine Format with Simplified Rules for 2026
Topstep, the pioneer of futures prop trading evaluations, has unveiled a redesigned Trading Combine format for 2026, streamlining its rule structure and introducing what the firm describes as "the most accessible path to a funded futures account in the firm's history."
Ask Propfirm has analyzed the new format in detail and compared it to both the previous Topstep structure and competitor offerings.
What Changed in the 2026 Combine
Old vs. New Structure
| Feature | Old Combine | New Combine (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Trading days required | 10 minimum | 5 minimum |
| Profit target (50K account) | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| Daily loss limit (50K) | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Max loss limit (50K) | $2,000 | $2,000 |
| Consistency rule | Yes (mandatory) | Optional (Express path) |
| News trading restriction | Restricted | Partially lifted |
| Overnight holding | Allowed | Allowed |
| Weekend holding | Case by case | Allowed (select instruments) |
| Monthly fee | $165 | $149 |
The headline changes are: reduced minimum trading days (5 vs. 10), lower profit target, and the introduction of an Express path that removes the consistency requirement for traders who meet the profit target in fewer days.
The New Express Path
The Express Combine allows traders who hit the $2,500 profit target in fewer than 10 trading days — without any single day exceeding 40% of total profits — to bypass the traditional consistency check. This is a significant concession for momentum traders and those with high-conviction, concentrated trading styles.
Previously, Topstep's consistency rule (no single day can represent more than 30–40% of total profits) penalized breakout traders. The Express path removes that friction for qualifying traders.
Account Size and Pricing Update
| Account Size | Monthly Fee | Profit Target | Daily Limit | Max Drawdown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $149 | $2,500 | $1,000 | $2,000 |
| $100,000 | $249 | $5,000 | $2,000 | $3,000 |
| $150,000 | $349 | $7,500 | $3,000 | $4,500 |
Topstep (topstep.com) has maintained its subscription-based fee model, which differs from Apex's one-time evaluation fee structure. For traders who fail and retry frequently, subscription models are more cost-effective; for those who expect to pass quickly, one-time fees at Apex Trader Funding may be cheaper.
How the New Combine Compares to Apex
| Feature | Topstep New Combine | Apex Trader Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Fee model | Monthly subscription | One-time fee |
| Minimum trading days | 5 | None (or minimal) |
| Trailing drawdown | No (static) | Yes |
| Consistency rule | Optional (Express) | None |
| Max account | $150,000 | $300,000 (multi-account) |
| Payout frequency | As earned | 14-day minimum cycle |
Community Reaction
The prop trading community has responded positively to the new Combine format. Key themes:
- The reduced minimum trading days are widely praised, especially by part-time traders
- The Express path has generated significant discussion — traders are reverse-engineering optimal execution strategies to qualify
- Some traders express frustration that weekend holding is still instrument-restricted rather than fully open
Dr. Algo's Take
Topstep's 2026 Combine redesign is competitive and well-considered. Reducing the minimum trading days and introducing the Express path addresses two of the most common criticisms of the previous format. Topstep remains the most respected name in futures prop trading by brand reputation, and these structural improvements should help it compete more effectively with Apex Trader Funding.
For the full Topstep evaluation, read our Topstep review, visit topstep.com, and compare against all futures options in our futures prop firm hub. All firm comparisons at Ask Propfirm.