CISSP
Gold-standard senior security certification covering 8 domains including risk management, architecture, and cryptography.
Full guide →CompTIA PenTest+
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →CISSP vs CompTIA PenTest+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CISSP | CompTIA PenTest+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $749 USD | ✓$404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$22,000/yr | +$14,000/yr |
| Passing score | 700/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 240 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | (ISC)² | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
CISSP
5 years paid work experience in 2+ of 8 CISSP domains
CompTIA PenTest+
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
- You're targeting senior security, governance, or CISO-track positions
- You want a potential +$22,000/yr salary uplift
- You have 2–4 years in security and want to specialise your role
- You want a potential +$14,000/yr salary uplift
- You're drawn to offensive security, ethical hacking, or red-team work
Both are in the cybersecurity field but target different career stages. Start with CompTIA PenTest+ if you're building foundational skills — it's the natural stepping stone. Go straight to CISSP if you already meet the prerequisites and want the higher salary ceiling (+$22,000/yr).
Best CISSP courses
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Is CISSP harder than CompTIA PenTest+?
CISSP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — CISSP or CompTIA PenTest+?
CISSP has an average salary uplift of +$22,000/yr, while CompTIA PenTest+ has +$14,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CISSP or CompTIA PenTest+?
CompTIA PenTest+ is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISSP.
Can I get both CISSP and CompTIA PenTest+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CISSP and CompTIA PenTest+ complement each other within cybersecurity. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CISSP or CompTIA PenTest+?
Both are worth it in 2026. CISSP offers a +$22,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA PenTest+ offers +$14,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.