FTMO vs Blue Guardian: Which Prop Trading Firm is Right for You?
Choosing between FTMO and Blue Guardian can significantly impact your trading career. Both firms offer unique benefits and challenges. This detailed comparison will help you understand their evaluation processes, trading rules, profit splits, and more to make an informed decision.
FTMO
- Evaluation Fee Range
- €89.00 – €1,080.00; $89.00 – $1,080.00
- Profit Split
- 80%
- Max Total Funding
- $200,000.00
- Trading Platforms
- MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader
Blue Guardian
- Evaluation Fee Range
- $19.00 – $997.00
- Profit Split
- 85%
- Max Total Funding
- $100,000.00
- Trading Platforms
- MetaTrader 5, Match-Trader, TradeLocker
Key Metrics Comparison
This table compares the facts currently shown for each firm side by side.
— means a supported value is currently not available on WhichPropFirm for that field. It does not mean zero.
| Metric | FTMO | Blue Guardian |
|---|---|---|
| Profit Split | 80% | 85% |
| Evaluation Fee Range | €89.00 – €1,080.00; $89.00 – $1,080.00 | $19.00 – $997.00 |
| Activation Fee | $0.00 | — |
| Data Platform Fee | — | — |
| Evaluation Steps | 2 | 0 – 3 |
| Profit Target | 10% | 8% – 10% |
| Daily Drawdown | 5% | 3% – 4% |
| Max Drawdown | 10% | 6% – 8% |
| Min Trading Days | 4 | 0 – 5 |
| News Trading | No | No |
| Scalping | Yes | Yes |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | Yes | Yes |
| Weekend Holding | No | Yes |
| Trading Platforms | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader | MetaTrader 5, Match-Trader, TradeLocker |
| Payout Methods | Bank Transfer, Crypto | Bank transfer via Rise, Cryptocurrency, PayPal |
| Headquarters | Czech Republic | United Arab Emirates |
Evaluation Process
FTMO employs a two-step evaluation process consisting of a Challenge and Verification stage. Traders must achieve a 10% profit target with a maximum drawdown of 10% within a minimum of 4 trading days. The process is designed to measure consistency and risk management skills. Blue Guardian, on the other hand, offers a more flexible evaluation process with options for 1-Step, 2-Step, or 3-Step challenges and instant funding options. The profit target is lower at 8%, with a maximum drawdown of 8%, making it slightly less challenging for traders to pass the evaluation compared to FTMO.
Trading Rules & Restrictions
FTMO has strict trading rules that prohibit news trading and weekend holding, although scalping and the use of expert advisors are allowed. This is designed to minimize risks associated with market volatility during these periods. Blue Guardian permits weekend holding, offering more flexibility for traders who prefer to maintain positions over the weekend. However, like FTMO, Blue Guardian also prohibits news trading to protect against sudden market movements. Both firms allow scalping and the use of expert advisors, catering to a wide range of trading strategies.
Profit Splits & Payouts
FTMO offers a generous profit split of 80% to 90%, depending on the trader's account performance. Payouts are processed monthly, providing a predictable income stream for successful traders. Blue Guardian provides an even higher profit split of 85%, with bi-weekly payouts, allowing traders to access their profits more frequently. Both firms support a variety of payout methods, including bank transfers and cryptocurrencies, ensuring traders can choose the most convenient option for their financial needs.
Platforms & Tradable Markets
FTMO supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and DXtrade, offering a wide range of platforms for traders to execute their strategies. The availability of these platforms ensures compatibility with various trading styles and expert advisors. Blue Guardian provides MetaTrader 5, Match-Trader, and TradeLocker, which are also popular among traders for their advanced features and user-friendly interfaces. Both firms offer access to a mixed range of instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, catering to diverse trading preferences.
Account Sizes & Scaling
Both FTMO and Blue Guardian offer account sizes starting from $5,000, with the potential to scale up to $2,000,000. FTMO's scaling plan depends on consistent trading performance and adherence to risk management rules. Blue Guardian also provides scaling opportunities, with a focus on rewarding traders who achieve consistent profitability. The clear scaling plans offered by both firms allow traders to increase their capital over time, enhancing their earning potential as they demonstrate their trading skills.
Strengths & Weaknesses
FTMO
Strengths
- High profit split potential of up to 90%
- Wide range of trading platforms
- Allows scalping and expert advisors
- Comprehensive evaluation process testing consistency
Weaknesses
- No news trading or weekend holding permitted
- Evaluation fees are relatively high
- Monthly payout frequency may not suit all traders
Blue Guardian
Strengths
- Flexible evaluation process with multiple options
- Higher profit split of 85%
- Allows weekend holding
- Bi-weekly payouts for quicker access to profits
Weaknesses
- Prohibits news trading
- Limited to three trading platforms
- Lower maximum drawdown tolerance at 8%
FAQs – FTMO vs Blue Guardian
Which trading firm is better overall: FTMO or Blue Guardian?
The choice between FTMO and Blue Guardian depends on your trading style and preferences. FTMO offers a higher potential profit split and a rigorous evaluation process, appealing to disciplined traders who value structure. Blue Guardian's flexible evaluation options and higher base profit split make it attractive for traders seeking more immediate rewards and flexibility. Consider your trading strategy, risk tolerance, and payout preferences when choosing between the two.
Which trading firm is better for beginners: FTMO or Blue Guardian?
For beginners, Blue Guardian may be more suitable due to its flexible evaluation process and lower profit target of 8%. The multiple evaluation options, including instant funding, can provide a less daunting entry into proprietary trading. FTMO's higher profit target and strict rules might be challenging for newcomers, but those who thrive under structured environments might still find it a rewarding experience.
How often are payouts processed by FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO processes payouts on a monthly basis, providing a regular schedule for traders. Blue Guardian, however, offers bi-weekly payouts, allowing traders to access their profits more frequently, which can be beneficial for those seeking quicker liquidity.
What payout methods are available with FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO offers payouts via bank transfer, cryptocurrency, Skrill, and PayPal, while Blue Guardian provides bank transfers via Rise, cryptocurrency, and PayPal. Both firms offer multiple payment options, catering to traders' preferences for receiving their earnings.
How does customer support compare between FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO is known for its responsive and knowledgeable customer support team, providing assistance through various channels. Blue Guardian also offers reliable support, ensuring traders receive timely help. Both firms focus on maintaining high customer satisfaction through effective communication.
What educational resources are available from FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO provides various educational resources, including webinars and trading guides, to help traders develop their skills. Blue Guardian offers similar resources, focusing on trader education and support. Both firms emphasize the importance of continuous learning and provide tools to aid trader development.
Can I trade news events with FTMO and Blue Guardian?
Both FTMO and Blue Guardian prohibit trading during major news events to prevent exposure to sudden market volatility. This restriction is in place to protect traders from unexpected losses due to rapid price movements.
What trading platforms and instruments are available with FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and DXtrade, while Blue Guardian provides MetaTrader 5, Match-Trader, and TradeLocker. Both firms offer a mixed range of instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to execute diverse trading strategies.
What are the maximum funding options with FTMO and Blue Guardian?
Both FTMO and Blue Guardian offer maximum funding of up to $2,000,000. They both start with initial account sizes from $5,000 to $200,000, allowing traders to scale their accounts as they demonstrate consistent profitability and risk management over time.
How do scaling opportunities differ between FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO provides scaling opportunities based on consistent performance and adherence to trading rules, enabling traders to increase their account size. Blue Guardian also offers scaling options, rewarding traders who consistently achieve their profit targets. Both firms allow traders to grow their accounts, enhancing trading capital and profit potential.
How difficult are the evaluation processes for FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO's evaluation involves a two-step process with a 10% profit target and a strict drawdown limit, requiring traders to demonstrate strong risk management and consistency. Blue Guardian offers multiple evaluation options, including 1-Step, 2-Step, and 3-Step challenges, with an 8% profit target, which may be more attainable for some traders.
How do the evaluation costs compare between FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO's evaluation fees range from $89 to $1,080, depending on the account size. Blue Guardian offers a more affordable range from $19 to $997, with the added benefit of a refund on successful completion of the evaluation, making it a cost-effective choice for traders.
How do profit splits differ between FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO offers a profit split ranging from 80% to 90%, depending on the trader's performance, while Blue Guardian offers a more straightforward 85% profit split. This makes Blue Guardian more attractive for traders seeking a higher base profit share without performance conditions.
What are the profit withdrawal rules for FTMO and Blue Guardian?
FTMO processes profit withdrawals monthly, while Blue Guardian offers bi-weekly payouts. Both firms provide various withdrawal methods, including bank transfers and cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to choose the most convenient option for accessing their earnings.
Which is Better – FTMO or Blue Guardian?
Ultimately, the best choice between FTMO and Blue Guardian depends on your trading style, risk tolerance, and financial goals. FTMO offers a rigorous but rewarding structure, while Blue Guardian provides flexibility and quicker payouts. Consider your priorities and choose the firm that aligns best with your trading objectives.