Azure Fundamentals vs CAPM
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Microsoft
Azure Fundamentals
AZ-900
Microsoft's entry-level Azure certification covering cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, and pricing.
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 | Azure Fundamentals | CAPM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$165 USD | $300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 65 min | 150 min |
| Renewal period | Every 2 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | PMI |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
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
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 Azure Fundamentals courses
Best CAPM courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Fundamentals harder than CAPM?
Both Azure Fundamentals and CAPM are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — Azure Fundamentals or CAPM?
Azure Fundamentals has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while CAPM has +$8,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure Fundamentals or CAPM?
Azure Fundamentals is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CAPM.