CAPM vs Azure Fundamentals
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 →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 | CAPM | Azure Fundamentals |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $300 USD | ✓$165 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$8,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 150 min | 65 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 2 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Microsoft |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
Azure Fundamentals — 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 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 CAPM courses
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CAPM harder than Azure Fundamentals?
Both CAPM and Azure Fundamentals are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CAPM or Azure Fundamentals?
CAPM has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while Azure Fundamentals has +$6,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CAPM or Azure Fundamentals?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Azure Fundamentals.