One-step challenges get you funded after a single phase instead of two. The trade-off is almost always tighter risk rules: a lower daily loss limit, a smaller or trailing maximum drawdown, or a consistency rule. Here’s how the main one-step options compare.
Our picks at a glance
FundedNext, FTMO, SabioTrade, E8 Markets. Each firm below accepts South African residents, and we’ve listed the rules that matter most for this use. Firm terms change often, so confirm details on the firm’s site before buying.
What to look for
Drawdown type. One-step challenges often use trailing drawdowns. A static limit is much easier to manage.
Daily loss. Most one-step challenges allow 3% per day, compared with 5% on two-step programs.
Consistency rules. Many add best-day rules to stop traders passing on a single lucky trade.
Total cost. One-step fees are often similar to two-step fees, but pass rates can be lower.
The best options in detail
1. FundedNext
FundedNext’s Stellar 1-Step needs 10% with a 3% daily loss and a 6% maximum loss measured from the starting balance, so it doesn’t trail. It pays every 5 business days once funded.
| Evaluation | Stellar 2-Step (8% / 5%), 1-Step (10%), Lite, Instant |
|---|---|
| Daily loss | 5% (2-Step); 3% (1-Step) |
| Maximum loss | 10% static (2-Step); 6% static (1-Step) |
| Consistency rule | Varies by model |
| Entry price | $59.99 ($6K) |
Visit FundedNext Read our FundedNext review
2. FTMO
FTMO launched its 1-Step in February 2026: a 10% target, 3% daily loss and 10% trailing maximum loss, with a 50% Best Day Rule. The larger trailing limit leaves reasonable room.
| Evaluation | 2-Step (10% / 5%) or 1-Step (10%) |
|---|---|
| Daily loss | 5% (2-Step); 3% (1-Step) |
| Maximum loss | 10% static (2-Step); 10% trailing (1-Step) |
| Consistency rule | None on 2-Step; 50% Best Day Rule on 1-Step |
| Entry price | €89 ($10K) |
Visit FTMO Read our FTMO review
3. SabioTrade
A single 10% target with a 5% daily loss, no time limit and built-in education, but a 6% trailing drawdown and a 55% consistency rule.
| Evaluation | 1-Step (10%) |
|---|---|
| Daily loss | 5% of previous day’s close (includes floating) |
| Maximum loss | 6% trailing from highest balance |
| Consistency rule | 55% per day and per trade |
| Entry price | $139 ($20K) |
Visit SabioTrade Read our SabioTrade review
4. E8 Markets
E8 One lets you choose your drawdown (about 4–14%) and split, with a lower 6% target. The drawdown trails in real time, so size positions conservatively.
| Evaluation | E8 One 1-step (6%), E8 Signature |
|---|---|
| Daily loss | 3% (E8 One) |
| Maximum loss | 4–14% real-time trailing (E8 One) |
| Consistency rule | 40% best day on funded E8 One |
| Entry price | about $40 ($5K) |
Visit E8 Markets Read our E8 Markets review
One-step or two-step?
Two-step challenges usually give more room per phase, while one-step challenges are faster but stricter. Read our full comparison of one-step vs two-step challenges.
Trading from South Africa
Forex traders get the most liquidity during the London–New York overlap, roughly 14:00–18:00 SAST in the Northern summer and 15:00–19:00 in winter. US index futures are busiest after the New York cash open at 15:30 or 16:30 SAST. Payouts are income for SARS, usually declared through provisional tax: see prop firm tax in South Africa.
FAQ
What is a one-step prop firm challenge?
A single evaluation phase: hit one profit target without breaking the loss rules and you’re funded.
Is one-step easier than two-step?
Not usually. It’s faster, but one-step challenges tend to have tighter daily limits, trailing drawdowns or consistency rules.
Which one-step challenge has a static drawdown?
FundedNext’s Stellar 1-Step measures its 6% maximum loss from the starting balance, so it doesn’t trail.
Which one-step challenge has the lowest target?
E8 One uses a 6% profit target, compared with 10% at most other firms.