Azure AI Fundamentals vs Azure Fundamentals
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Microsoft
Azure AI Fundamentals
AI-900
Microsoft's entry-level AI certification covering machine learning, computer vision, NLP, and generative AI on Azure.
Full guide →Microsoft
Azure Fundamentals
AZ-900
Microsoft's entry-level Azure certification covering cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, and pricing.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Azure AI Fundamentals | Azure Fundamentals |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $165 USD | $165 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$7,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 65 min | 65 min |
| Renewal period | Every 2 years | Every 2 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | Microsoft |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
Azure AI Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
Get Azure AI Fundamentals if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$7,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Microsoft
Get Azure Fundamentals if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$6,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Microsoft
Best Azure AI Fundamentals courses
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure AI Fundamentals harder than Azure Fundamentals?
Both Azure AI Fundamentals and Azure Fundamentals are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — Azure AI Fundamentals or Azure Fundamentals?
Azure AI Fundamentals has an average salary uplift of +$7,000/yr, while Azure Fundamentals has +$6,000/yr. Azure AI Fundamentals has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure AI Fundamentals or Azure Fundamentals?
Azure AI Fundamentals is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Azure Fundamentals.