CAPM vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
PMI
CAPM
CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →Amazon Web Services
AWS Cloud Practitioner
CLF-C02
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CAPM | AWS Cloud Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $300 USD | ✓$100 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 150 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
AWS Cloud Practitioner — Prerequisites
None required
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
Get AWS Cloud Practitioner if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Best CAPM courses
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CAPM harder than AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Both CAPM and AWS Cloud Practitioner are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CAPM or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
CAPM has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while AWS Cloud Practitioner has +$8,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CAPM or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Cloud Practitioner.