Azure Fundamentals
Microsoft's entry-level Azure certification covering cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, and pricing.
Full guide →CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →Azure Fundamentals vs CAPM
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | Azure Fundamentals | CAPM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$165 USD | $300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 700/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 65 min | 150 min |
| Renewal period | Every 2 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | PMI |
| Difficulty |
Azure Fundamentals
None required
CAPM
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
- You're new to cloud and want a foundational credential from Microsoft
- You want a potential +$6,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on Microsoft and you need the recognised entry-level credential
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on PMI and you need the recognised entry-level credential
Azure Fundamentals and CAPM lead to entirely different careers — cloud computing vs project management. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with Azure Fundamentals — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Best CAPM courses
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.
Can I get both Azure Fundamentals and CAPM?
Yes — many professionals hold both. Azure Fundamentals and CAPM complement each other, covering cloud computing and project management respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — Azure Fundamentals or CAPM?
Both are worth it in 2026. Azure Fundamentals offers a +$6,000/yr average salary uplift; CAPM offers +$8,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.