CAPM vs CompTIA Security+
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 →CompTIA
CompTIA Security+
SY0-701
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CAPM | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$300 USD | $404 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 | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
CompTIA Security+ — Prerequisites
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
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 CompTIA Security+ if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
Best CAPM courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Frequently asked questions
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+.