Azure Administrator vs PMP
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Microsoft
Azure Administrator
AZ-104
Validates skills in managing Azure identities, storage, compute, virtual networks, and monitoring in enterprise environments.
Full guide →PMI
PMP
PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Azure Administrator | PMP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$165 USD | $555 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$15,000/yr | ✓+$25,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 100 min | 230 min |
| Renewal period | Every 1 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | PMI |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Advanced |
Azure Administrator — Prerequisites
AZ-900 recommended, 6 months Azure administration experience
PMP — Prerequisites
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
Get Azure Administrator if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$15,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Microsoft
Get PMP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$25,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Best Azure Administrator courses
Best PMP courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Administrator harder than PMP?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — Azure Administrator or PMP?
Azure Administrator has an average salary uplift of +$15,000/yr, while PMP has +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure Administrator or PMP?
Azure Administrator is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.