Looking to trade futures with a funded account? Bulenox and Apex Trader Funding are two popular prop firms offering traders access to capital without risking their own money. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Profit Splits: Apex lets you keep 100% of your first $25,000, while Bulenox offers 100% of the first $10,000 before both move to a 90/10 split.
- Evaluation Process: Apex has no time limits but requires at least 7 trading days. Bulenox has no minimum trading days, allowing faster progression.
- Account Sizes: Apex offers accounts up to $300,000, while Bulenox maxes out at $250,000.
- Fees: Apex frequently runs 80–90% discounts, making it cheaper during promotions. Bulenox charges one-time activation fees and monthly data fees.
- Platform Support: Both support NinjaTrader and Rithmic, but Bulenox offers broader platform compatibility.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Bulenox | Apex Trader Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Profit Retention | 100% of first $10,000 | 100% of first $25,000 |
| Evaluation Days | No minimum | At least 7 |
| Account Sizes | $10,000–$250,000 | $25,000–$300,000 |
| Monthly Fees | $115–$535 | $137–$399 (discounts often) |
| Data Fees | $116/month (professional) | Included (Level 1 CME) |
| Payouts | Weekly, $1,000 minimum | Every 8 trading days, $500 min |
Bottom Line: Apex is ideal for traders seeking flexibility and higher initial profit retention, while Bulenox suits those who prefer faster evaluations and broader platform options. Choose based on your trading goals and budget.
Account Types and Funding Options
Available Account Sizes
Apex offers seven account options ranging from $25,000 to $300,000, including a special $100,000 STATIC account. Monthly fees for these accounts span from $137 to $399. On the other hand, Bulenox provides six account sizes, starting at $10,000 and going up to $250,000, with one-time activation fees starting at $98 for the smallest account.
For Apex, the fees range from $147 per month for a $25,000 FULL account to $399 per month for the $250,000 and $300,000 accounts. Bulenox, however, uses a one-time fee structure, charging $143 for a $25,000 account and up to $898 for a $250,000 account.
In terms of account management, Apex allows traders to manage up to 20 funded accounts at once, while Bulenox supports up to 11 active Master Accounts.
Let’s explore how each firm’s evaluation requirements align with their approach to risk management.
Evaluation Requirements
Each firm has its own unique evaluation system to manage risk, tailored to their account offerings. Apex’s FULL accounts use a trailing drawdown, which stops trailing once the account reaches the starting balance plus $100. STATIC accounts, in contrast, have fixed drawdowns and no daily loss limits. Bulenox offers two types of accounts: No Scaling accounts, which use a trailing drawdown, and EOD accounts, which update risk parameters at the end of each trading day.
Bulenox’s EOD accounts also feature a scaling plan. As your account grows in profitability, your contract limits increase, giving you the potential to trade larger positions as you demonstrate consistent success.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the account types:
| Feature | Bulenox (No Scaling) | Bulenox (EOD) | Apex (Full) | Apex (Static) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drawdown Type | Trailing | End-of-Day | Trailing | Static |
| Daily Loss Limit | No | Yes | No | No |
| Drawdown Behavior | Follows current balance | Updated end of day | Stops trailing at initial balance + $100 | Fixed |
Next, let’s examine how platform compatibility and additional features cater to traders’ technical needs.
Platform Support and Special Features
Bulenox supports a wide range of trading platforms, including NinjaTrader, R|Trader Pro, Sierra Chart, and several other specialized tools. Apex, meanwhile, focuses on NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and Rithmic RTrader Pro, with NinjaTrader being their preferred platform.
Both firms provide Rithmic login credentials, enabling traders to connect to other Rithmic-compatible platforms. However, direct technical support for these third-party integrations can be limited. Apex includes real-time market data in their plans, while Bulenox offers a free NinjaTrader 8 license for traders using Master Accounts, which could save traders on software costs.
For mobile trading, Apex users can access the NinjaTrader mobile app via Tradovate connections. However, the NinjaTrader web platform does not currently support this integration. If using RTrader Pro with Apex, traders need to keep the platform open during login to maintain connectivity.
Ultimately, the choice of platform depends on your trading style and technical preferences. Bulenox’s broader platform support is ideal for traders who rely on specialized tools or value flexibility in their setup. Apex, with its streamlined options, is a great fit for traders who prefer mainstream platforms and a simpler, more focused approach.
Fees and Evaluation Process
Cost Comparison
When comparing prop trading costs, it’s essential to look beyond just the monthly fees – pricing structures and additional charges can significantly affect your budget.
Bulenox charges monthly fees ranging from $115 for a $10,000 account to $535 for a $250,000 account. On the other hand, Apex Trader Funding charges between $137 for their $100,000 STATIC account and $297 for larger accounts ($150,000 to $300,000). For a $50,000 account, Bulenox charges $175 per month, while Apex charges $167. However, Apex frequently offers discounts of 80–90%, which can drastically lower your initial costs.
When it comes to data fees, Apex includes Level 1 CME data in their pricing. Bulenox, however, charges an additional $116 per month for professional data access.
Reset fees also add to the overall cost. Bulenox charges $78 per reset and includes one free reset with each subscription renewal. Apex’s reset fees vary: $80 for Rithmic platform resets and $100 for resets on Tradovate.
| Cost Component | Bulenox | Apex Trader Funding |
|---|---|---|
| $50K Monthly Fee | $175 | $167 (frequent 80–90% discount offers) |
| Data Fees | Included (non-professional); $116/month (professional) | Included (Level 1 CME bundle) |
| Reset Fees | $78 (1 free reset with renewal) | $80 for Rithmic; $100 for Tradovate |
Evaluation Rules and Pass Criteria
The evaluation processes at Bulenox and Apex differ in ways that can significantly impact how quickly traders progress to a funded account.
Apex Trader Funding uses a one-step evaluation process with no time limits, giving traders unlimited time to hit their profit target. However, you must trade for at least seven days to pass the evaluation. Apex also enforces consistency rules, including a 30% profit-and-loss restriction and a single-trade profit cap of 30%, to encourage steady trading habits. Notably, Apex does not impose daily drawdown limits, allowing for larger intraday swings. Evaluations begin immediately after the monthly fee is paid, and traders can reset their accounts as often as needed. However, there’s a catch: if a failed account isn’t reset within eight days and you don’t have other active subscriptions, Rithmic will disable the account.
Bulenox, on the other hand, offers a more flexible evaluation approach. There’s no minimum trading day requirement, which could allow traders to progress more quickly. The evaluation uses a trailing drawdown that adjusts with your account balance, providing more room as profits grow. If you reset your account, the initial balance is restored, but you’ll need to trade for at least five days after the reset.
Apex’s unlimited time frame and absence of daily drawdowns may appeal to traders seeking flexibility, while Bulenox’s lack of a minimum trading day requirement could suit those looking to move faster.
Next, let’s dive into the technical support and platform options each firm provides.
Profit Splits and Payout Systems
Profit-Sharing Models
The profit-sharing setups for Bulenox and Apex Trader Funding take different approaches, especially during the early stages of a trader’s earnings.
With Apex Trader Funding, traders get to keep 100% of the first $25,000 in profits per account. After this point, profits are split 90% to the trader and 10% to Apex.
Bulenox, on the other hand, allows traders to retain 100% of the first $10,000, after which the same 90/10 split (trader/firm) applies to further earnings.
When it comes to payout logistics, there are some notable differences. Apex enables traders to request payouts every 8 trading days, while Bulenox processes payouts weekly on Wednesdays – but only after traders complete at least 10 trading days.
The minimum withdrawal amounts also vary. Bulenox requires a $1,000 minimum withdrawal, whereas Apex has a lower threshold of $500, making it easier for traders with smaller profits to access their funds sooner.
Apex processes payouts within 2 business days, with funds typically arriving in 3-4 days. Bulenox offers multiple withdrawal methods, including ACH/Wire Transfers, PayPal, and Wise, providing flexibility for traders.
Account Scaling Options
The scaling options offered by these firms reflect different attitudes toward risk management and trader development.
Bulenox uses an "EOD Dynamic Scaling Plan", which adjusts the maximum contract size based on a trader’s end-of-day account balance, specifically their "Cash On Hand" value. This approach encourages disciplined trading and limits risk, as the scaling is recalculated at the end of each trading day, offering more flexibility compared to real-time monitoring systems.
In contrast, Apex Trader Funding offers "FULL" accounts with no scaling restrictions. Traders can immediately utilize their full contract allocation based on the account size. For example, a $100,000 FULL account allows 14 contracts (or 140 micro contracts), while a $300,000 account permits 35 contracts (or 350 micro contracts).
Apex also allows traders to manage up to 20 funded accounts simultaneously. This opens the door for traders to scale significantly by handling multiple six-figure accounts at once.
Bulenox provides traders with two account types: the "No Scaling Account (Trailing Drawdown)" and the "EOD Account (EOD / Scaling Plan / Daily Loss Limit)". This gives traders flexibility in choosing an account that matches their preferred risk management style.
Pros and Cons Comparison
| Feature | Bulenox Pros | Bulenox Cons | Apex Pros | Apex Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Profit Retention | 100% of first $10,000 | Lower threshold than Apex | 100% of first $25,000 | |
| Payout Frequency | Weekly schedule | Requires 10 trading days minimum | Every 8 trading days | |
| Minimum Withdrawal | Offers multiple payment methods | $1,000 minimum (higher) | $500 minimum (lower) | Limited to standard methods |
| Scaling System | Encourages risk management | Limits contract growth | No scaling restrictions | Lacks built-in risk controls |
| Account Options | Choice of scaling or no scaling | Decision-making may feel complex | Simple, unrestricted setup | Less tailored options |
| Multiple Accounts | Not mentioned | Limited scaling potential | Up to 20 funded accounts | Managing many accounts can be challenging |
Ultimately, the decision between these firms depends on your trading style and goals. If maximizing early profits and frequent payouts are your priorities, Apex might be the better fit. On the other hand, Bulenox’s scaling system and risk management features could be more appealing to traders still refining their strategies.
Trading Platforms and Technical Support
Supported Trading Platforms
Apex Trader Funding gives traders the flexibility to choose from NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and WealthCharts, all integrated with real-time data. They also provide a free NinjaTrader license paired with Rithmic connectivity, ensuring traders have access to professional-grade tools.
Bulenox, on the other hand, focuses primarily on NinjaTrader 8, offering a free license for Master accounts. They also provide their proprietary ProjectX platform, which includes features not found elsewhere. While Bulenox technically allows traders to use other platforms compatible with Rithmic, they do not supply technical support or license keys for those alternatives.
Apex takes an extra step in risk management by utilizing Rithmic RTrader Pro to monitor balances and drawdowns. This added layer of oversight helps traders maintain better control over their accounts. Regardless of the platform, ensuring a stable and fast connection is key to executing trades effectively.
VPS Hosting for Futures Trading
For traders running automated strategies or trading during non-standard hours, reliable VPS hosting is crucial. A dependable connection ensures seamless execution, especially for time-sensitive trades.
QuantVPS emerges as a top-tier choice, offering ultra-low latency connectivity to the CME exchange, with speeds as fast as 0.52 milliseconds. Strategically located in Chicago, their data center gives futures traders a significant speed advantage, enabling faster order execution.
"Yes, highly recommended for prop firms (e.g., Apex, Bulenox). Our ultra-low <0.52ms CME latency and enhanced security meet their strict trading requirements." – QuantVPS
QuantVPS guarantees 24/7 uptime with a 99.999% reliability rate, making it an excellent option for automated trading strategies. Their servers handle billions of futures contracts, showcasing their ability to support high-frequency trading. With customizable plans available through a configurator, traders can tailor their setup to meet specific needs. This high-performance infrastructure aligns well with the platforms offered by both Apex and Bulenox.
Customer Support and Training Resources
In addition to trading platforms and VPS services, effective customer support plays a critical role – especially during evaluations when quick problem-solving is essential.
Apex Trader Funding provides a comprehensive support system, including a help center with a detailed knowledge base, platform setup guides, and evaluation resources. Their training approach is thorough, requiring traders to complete master training courses before they begin trading. Apex also offers step-by-step guides for connecting to NinjaTrader, Rithmic, and Tradovate, along with a technical support forum where users can discuss platform-specific issues. In February 2017, ApexInvesting.com even addressed widespread questions about NinjaTrader chart load times, demonstrating their proactive stance on technical support. Additionally, ApexFutures enhances their educational offerings with a free Emini Futures course, helping traders expand their knowledge.
Bulenox takes a more focused approach, offering a help center designed to assist both new and experienced traders. While their support resources are less extensive compared to Apex, they emphasize personalized guidance tailored to their specific platform features.
| Support Feature | Apex Trader Funding | Bulenox |
|---|---|---|
| Training Requirements | Master training courses required | General platform guidance |
| Platform Setup Guides | Guides for NinjaTrader, Rithmic, and Tradovate | Focus on NinjaTrader 8 and ProjectX |
| Community Resources | Technical support forum and knowledge base | Direct, personalized support |
| Educational Content | Free Emini Futures course available | Support for traders at all levels |
| Documentation Style | Detailed technical explanations | Streamlined, targeted assistance |
Bulenox vs Apex: Which One Pays Out Faster? ⚡💰
Which Prop Firm Should You Choose?
Deciding between Bulenox and Apex Trader Funding comes down to your trading style and goals. Each firm caters to different trader needs, offering unique benefits.
Apex Trader Funding is a great option for traders who prioritize flexibility and simplicity. It allows up to 20 accounts under one login and features a straightforward, one-step evaluation process. This setup eliminates unnecessary barriers for traders aiming to grow quickly. Apex also offers an impressive profit retention structure, with traders keeping 100% of the first $25,000 in profits before moving to a 90/10 split. During promotional periods, some traders have even completed the evaluation in a single trading day. Under standard conditions, the evaluation process typically takes at least 7 trading days.
Bulenox, on the other hand, is tailored for traders who prefer a more structured approach. It limits traders to 3 accounts and offers 100% of the first $10,000 in profits before transitioning to a 90/10 split. Bulenox’s evaluation process is also more flexible, with no fixed trading day requirements, and traders can qualify for the Master account in just 5 trading days. These differences create distinct experiences in terms of cost, platform options, and overall support.
When it comes to pricing, Apex often runs promotions offering 80–90% discounts, bringing the cost of a $50K account down to about $167 per month. In contrast, Bulenox charges $175 for a similar account. Apex also includes Level 1 CME bundle data fees in its pricing, while Bulenox requires an additional $116 per month for professional data access.
| Key Decision Factors | Choose Apex If You Want | Choose Bulenox If You Want |
|---|---|---|
| Account Scaling | Up to 20 accounts for aggressive growth | A structured approach with up to 3 accounts |
| Profit Potential | 100% of first $25K, then 90/10 split | 100% of first $10K, then 90/10 split |
| Evaluation Speed | Rapid evaluations during promotions | Flexible timing with no set trading days during evaluation |
| Platform Options | NinjaTrader, Rithmic, Tradovate | NinjaTrader, Rithmic |
To get the most out of your funded account, consider pairing it with a high-performance VPS. A reliable VPS, like QuantVPS, provides fast execution speeds and ensures your trading setup stays online around the clock.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your trading preferences and growth strategy. Apex is ideal for traders looking for maximum flexibility and account scalability, while Bulenox is better suited for those who value a more methodical, step-by-step approach. Both firms can support your success when combined with disciplined risk management and the right trading tools.
FAQs
How do the evaluation processes differ between Bulenox and Apex Trader Funding?
Bulenox keeps its evaluation process straightforward and efficient, requiring just 5 trading days to complete. The focus is on consistency and profitability, without burdening traders with overly complex rules. This approach offers a clear and simple path for those aiming to secure funding.
Apex Trader Funding, by contrast, extends its evaluation period to 7 days. Their process places a stronger emphasis on trader discipline, adherence to strategy, and effective risk management. While both firms evaluate similar factors – like consistency, profitability, and risk control – Bulenox is often viewed as the faster option, whereas Apex leans more toward a structured and strategy-focused approach.
How do the profit-sharing models of Bulenox and Apex Trader Funding affect a trader’s earnings potential?
Both Bulenox and Apex Trader Funding have profit-sharing models aimed at rewarding traders for their success.
Bulenox lets traders keep 100% of their profits up to $10,000. Once this amount is surpassed, traders retain 90% of their earnings, while the firm takes a 10% share. This setup gives traders a strong incentive during their initial profit stages.
Apex Trader Funding, on the other hand, allows traders to keep 100% of their profits up to $25,000. After reaching this point, profits are shared, with traders typically keeping between 75% and 95%, depending on the account terms. Both models are designed to prioritize traders’ earnings while ensuring firms take a minimal cut as performance fees, making them attractive options for those who trade profitably and consistently.
Which prop firm offers the best platform compatibility and technical support for futures traders?
Both Bulenox and Apex excel in providing platform compatibility and technical support tailored to the needs of futures traders.
Bulenox supports widely-used trading platforms like NinjaTrader, MetaTrader, and Quantower. These platforms come with advanced features and integrate smoothly with Bulenox’s services, making them a solid choice for traders who value seamless functionality.
Apex, on the other hand, leverages Rithmic data feeds, which are compatible with platforms like ATAS, Bookmap, and Jigsaw. This setup ensures a dependable and efficient trading experience, particularly for those who rely on high-quality data feeds.
When it comes to support, Bulenox offers dedicated assistance for integrating trading platforms, ensuring traders can get up and running without hassle. Apex complements this by providing in-depth help through their data feed services, addressing the technical needs of their users effectively. Both companies are well-prepared to offer the tools and support futures traders require for a smooth trading experience.
