AWS Cloud Practitioner vs CAPM
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Amazon Web Services
AWS Cloud Practitioner
CLF-C02
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →PMI
CAPM
CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | AWS Cloud Practitioner | CAPM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$100 USD | $300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 150 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | PMI |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
AWS Cloud Practitioner — Prerequisites
None required
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
Get AWS Cloud Practitioner if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Get CAPM if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Best CAPM courses
Frequently asked questions
Is AWS Cloud Practitioner harder than CAPM?
Both AWS Cloud Practitioner and CAPM are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — AWS Cloud Practitioner or CAPM?
AWS Cloud Practitioner has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while CAPM has +$8,000/yr. AWS Cloud Practitioner has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS Cloud Practitioner or CAPM?
AWS Cloud Practitioner is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CAPM.