CompTIA CySA+ vs PMP
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
CompTIA
CompTIA CySA+
CS0-003
Mid-level analyst certification focused on threat detection, security operations, and incident response.
Full guide →PMI
PMP
PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CompTIA CySA+ | PMP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$404 USD | $555 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$12,000/yr | ✓+$25,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 165 min | 230 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | PMI |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Advanced |
CompTIA CySA+ — Prerequisites
Security+ or equivalent experience, 3-4 years IT security experience
PMP — Prerequisites
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
Get CompTIA CySA+ if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$12,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
Get PMP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$25,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Best CompTIA CySA+ courses
Best PMP courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CompTIA CySA+ harder than PMP?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — CompTIA CySA+ or PMP?
CompTIA CySA+ has an average salary uplift of +$12,000/yr, while PMP has +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA CySA+ or PMP?
CompTIA CySA+ is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.