AWS Cloud Practitioner vs CompTIA PenTest+
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 →CompTIA
CompTIA PenTest+
PT0-003
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | AWS Cloud Practitioner | CompTIA PenTest+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$100 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | ✓+$14,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Intermediate |
AWS Cloud Practitioner — Prerequisites
None required
CompTIA PenTest+ — Prerequisites
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
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 CompTIA PenTest+ if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$14,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Frequently asked questions
Is AWS Cloud Practitioner harder than CompTIA PenTest+?
CompTIA PenTest+ is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — AWS Cloud Practitioner or CompTIA PenTest+?
AWS Cloud Practitioner has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while CompTIA PenTest+ has +$14,000/yr. CompTIA PenTest+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS Cloud Practitioner or CompTIA PenTest+?
AWS Cloud Practitioner is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA PenTest+.