Micro vs Mini Futures Contracts at a Prop Firm
A micro is one-tenth of a mini. Point values, how contract limits count them, and a worked way to size a small account.
By Prop Firm Duel · · updated Sep 27, 2026
A micro futures contract is one-tenth the size of a mini. On the Nasdaq-100, a point is worth $2 on the micro (MNQ) and $20 on the mini (NQ). At a prop firm, micros let you size in smaller steps inside a fixed dollar drawdown, which is why they're often the safer place to start.
Key takeaways
- A micro is one-tenth of a mini, in point value and in risk.
- Most prop firms count ten micros as one mini against your contract limit.
- Micros give finer control over risk, especially on smaller accounts.
- Ten micros can cost more in commissions than one mini.
What are the point values?
| Index | Mini | Micro |
|---|---|---|
| Nasdaq-100 | NQ, $20 a point | MNQ, $2 a point |
| S&P 500 | ES, $50 a point | MES, $5 a point |
| Dow | YM, $5 a point | MYM, $0.50 a point |
| Russell 2000 | RTY, $50 a point | M2K, $5 a point |
How does contract size change your risk?
A 10-point stop on one NQ risks $200. On one MNQ, it risks $20. With a $2,000 drawdown, that's ten NQ losses in a row or a hundred MNQ losses. Nothing else about the trade changes. Only the size does.
How do micros count against contract limits?
Most firms count ten micros as one mini, which is why limits are written like "4 minis or 40 micros". That was the most common 50K limit among the futures programs we track when we checked on September 26 and 27, 2026. A few firms set separate limits for each. See prop firm contract limits.
A worked example: sizing a 25K account
Say your 25K account has a $1,000 drawdown, and your usual stop on the Nasdaq is 25 points. One NQ risks $500, so two losses would end the account. One MNQ risks $50, and three MNQ risk $150, which gives you room for six or so losses in a row. On a small account, micros are often the only way to trade your normal stop without betting the account on two trades.
Which should you use in an evaluation?
Use the size that keeps a normal losing streak well inside your drawdown. Micros give finer control, and minis carry more risk per point. If you trade minis in your own account, you can still use micros in an evaluation to leave room for a bad day. See prop firm drawdown rules.
Common questions
Can I mix micros and minis?
Many firms allow it within the limit, counting ten micros as one mini. Check the program's rules.
Are commissions different for micros?
Yes. Each micro costs less, but ten micros can cost more in total than one mini.
Which should a beginner use?
Usually micros. They keep a small mistake small. See prop firms for beginners and futures prop firms explained.
Futures trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone. Prop firm evaluations and most funded accounts trade in a simulated environment, and payouts depend on meeting each firm's rules. Everything on this site is general education, not financial advice. Rules and prices change: always read the firm's current terms before you buy. We have no affiliate or paid relationship with any firm listed. Our disclosure.