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Order Blocks On Futures: ES, NQ And Crude Oil |
Written by Renan Filho, Technology & AI specialist. Expiry dates and activation fees are always visible.
Quick Answer: Order blocks are key price levels where institutional traders place large orders. For ES, NQ, and crude oil futures, these zones often trigger reversals. Identify them on lower timeframes after a strong move. Combine with volume profile for confirmation. This strategy works well for US traders using prop firm capital.
Key Facts for US Traders (2026)
| Market | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| US indices | S&P 500, NASDAQ, Dow Jones | NYSE / NASDAQ |
| Regulator | CFTC (futures) / SEC (securities) | Official |
| Prop firm model | Funded evaluations with profit split 70-95% | Vendor terms |
| Verification | Updated regularly | PropFirmDiscountApp |
| Best deal today | Code DISCOUNTAPP — up to 90% off | Updated regularly |
What are order blocks in futures trading?
Order blocks are clusters of limit orders from banks and institutions. On ES, NQ, and crude oil, they appear after a sharp price move. The market often returns to fill these zones before continuing. Look for a series of candles with large bodies and little wick. That signals where big money placed trades.
How to identify order blocks on ES and NQ
Switch to a 1-minute or 5-minute chart. Find a strong impulsive move that breaks a key level. Mark the last candle before the move. That candle's range is the order block. For ES, focus on round numbers like 5000. For NQ, use 15000 levels. Combine with order flow tools for higher accuracy.
Comparison of top prop firms for futures traders
Below is a table comparing seven prop firms that accept US traders. Each offers different evaluation costs, profit splits, and drawdown rules. Choose based on your trading style and capital needs. All are solid options for order block strategies.
Tips for trading crude oil order blocks
Crude oil futures move fast. Use these tips to stay disciplined: 1. Use 15-minute chart for crude oil order blocks. 2. Focus on round numbers like $75, $80, $85. 3. Avoid trading during EIA inventory reports. 4. Set stop loss 2 ticks beyond the block. 5. Combine with RSI divergence for extra confirmation.
Best prop firms for order block strategies
Apex and FTMO are the best for US traders. Apex offers the lowest evaluation cost at $137 for a 50k account and 100% profit split. FTMO has a solid reputation and smooth payout process. For crude oil, choose a firm with low daily drawdown limits. The5ers also works well for scalping order blocks.
Quick Comparison
| prop firm | evaluation cost (50k) | profit split | max drawdown | offer with code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ftmo | $155 | 80% up to 90% | 5% daily / 10% overall | 10% off with code FTMO10 at https://ftmo.com - original $155, now $139.50 |
| apex | $137 | 100% (first payout 90%) | 4% daily / 8% overall | 20% off with code APEX20 at https://apex.com - original $137, now $109.60 |
| topstep | $165 | 80% up to 90% | 5% daily / 10% overall | 15% off with code TOP15 at https://topstep.com - original $165, now $140.25 |
| fundednext | $109 | 80% up to 90% | 5% daily / 10% overall | 10% off with code FN10 at https://fundednext.com - original $109, now $98.10 |
| true forex funds | $125 | 80% up to 90% | 5% daily / 10% overall | No current offer |
| the5ers | $150 | 80% up to 85% | 5% daily / 10% overall | 10% off with code 5ERS10 at https://the5ers.com - original $150, now $135 |
| e8 markets | $99 | 80% up to 90% | 5% daily / 10% overall | 20% off with code E820 at https://e8markets.com - original $99, now $79.20 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best prop firm for futures trading?
Apex and FTMO are top choices. Apex has lower costs and 100% profit split. FTMO has a proven track record.
Can I trade order blocks with a prop firm?
Yes, most prop firms allow any strategy. Just follow their drawdown rules. Order blocks are a valid approach.
What time frame is best for order blocks on ES?
Use 1-minute or 5-minute charts for entry. The 15-minute chart helps identify stronger blocks.
How much capital do I need to trade crude oil futures?
A 50k prop account gives you enough buying power. Crude oil requires about $4,000 margin per contract.
Do order blocks work on NQ?
Yes, NQ is very responsive to order blocks. Use them on the 1-minute chart during high volume sessions.
Conclusion
Order blocks are a reliable edge for ES, NQ, and crude oil. Combine them with a solid prop firm like FTMO or Apex. Use code FTMO10 for 10% off your evaluation. Start trading with institutional capital today.
All firms · Today's offers · FTMO vs Apex
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Risk warning: Trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for every investor. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Prop firm evaluations are simulations, not regulated brokerage accounts.