CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →CAPM vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CAPM | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$300 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 150 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
CAPM
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
- 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
- You're entering IT security and need a globally recognised, vendor-neutral credential
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- You prefer credentials that work across vendors, not tied to one platform
CAPM and CompTIA Security+ lead to entirely different careers — project management vs cybersecurity. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with CAPM — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best CAPM courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Is CAPM harder than CompTIA Security+?
Both CAPM and CompTIA Security+ are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CAPM or CompTIA Security+?
CAPM has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CAPM or CompTIA Security+?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA Security+.
Can I get both CAPM and CompTIA Security+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CAPM and CompTIA Security+ complement each other, covering project management and cybersecurity respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CAPM or CompTIA Security+?
Both are worth it in 2026. CAPM offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA Security+ offers +$8,000/yr. CAPM has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.