Topstep Max Contract Size
The Simple Answer
Topstep uses a Scaling Plan on the Express Funded Account (XFA) that sets your Maximum Position Size based on your current account balance. Your XFA starts at a $0 balance and buying power grows as your balance grows, with limits based on mini-contract equivalents at a 10:1 micro ratio.
The Scaling Plan governs the XFA specifically; the Live Funded Account uses a separate mechanism called Dynamic Live Risk Expansion instead.
How Position Sizing Works
Express Funded Account
Your XFA starts at $0 balance. As your balance grows, so does your buying power, and you are never required to trade your maximum. A key rule: your max contracts do not increase mid-session, so hitting a new threshold means waiting for the next session to trade the larger size.
Micro and Mini Conversion
Limits are based on mini-contract equivalents at a standard 10:1 ratio (10 Micros = 1 Mini). Example: on a $50K XFA with a 2-lot Scaling Plan, you could trade 2 Minis, 20 Micros, or any combination equal to 2 Minis.
Special Product Weightings
Micro Silver (SIL) carries a 5:1 ratio versus Silver (SI) and counts as 2 of any other micro. Micro Bitcoin (MBT) and Micro Ether (MET) are capped at mini-equivalent lot sizes rather than following the standard 10:1 micro scaling.
Live Funded Account
Once you move to the Live Funded Account, the Scaling Plan no longer applies. Position sizing is instead governed by Dynamic Live Risk Expansion, a separate mechanism for live capital.
Final Thoughts
Topstep ties your maximum position size to your current account balance through the Scaling Plan on the XFA, with a straightforward 10:1 micro-to-mini conversion for most products and special weightings for Silver, Bitcoin, and Ether micros.
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FAQ
What is the max contract size on Topstep?
It is set by the Scaling Plan on the Express Funded Account, which ties your maximum position size to your current account balance.
Does the Scaling Plan apply to the Live Funded Account?
No. The Live Funded Account uses Dynamic Live Risk Expansion instead of the Scaling Plan.
How many micros equal one mini contract on Topstep?
The standard ratio is 10 Micros to 1 Mini, though Micro Silver, Micro Bitcoin, and Micro Ether have special weightings.
Can my max contracts increase in the middle of a session?
No. Topstep’s rule is clear that max contracts do not increase mid-session; you must wait for the next session after hitting a new threshold.
Do I have to trade my maximum allowed contracts?
No. You are never required to trade your maximum; the Scaling Plan sets a ceiling, not a requirement.