Azure Fundamentals vs Professional Scrum Master I
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 →Scrum.org
Professional Scrum Master I
PSM I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Azure Fundamentals | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$165 USD | $200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$9,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 65 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 2 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
Professional Scrum Master I — Prerequisites
None required
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 Professional Scrum Master I if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$9,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Scrum.org
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Fundamentals harder than Professional Scrum Master I?
Both Azure Fundamentals and Professional Scrum Master I are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — Azure Fundamentals or Professional Scrum Master I?
Azure Fundamentals has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while Professional Scrum Master I has +$9,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure Fundamentals or Professional Scrum Master I?
Azure Fundamentals is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Professional Scrum Master I.