CompTIA PenTest+
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →CISM
Management-focused security certification covering governance, risk management, and incident management.
Full guide →CompTIA PenTest+ vs CISM
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA PenTest+ | CISM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$404 USD | $760 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$14,000/yr | ✓+$20,000/yr |
| Passing score | 750/1000 | 450/1000 |
| Exam duration | 165 min | 240 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | ISACA |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA PenTest+
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
CISM
5 years information security management experience
- 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
- You're targeting senior security, governance, or CISO-track positions
- You want a potential +$20,000/yr salary uplift
- Your goal is security management, governance, or a CISO career track
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 CISM if you already meet the prerequisites and want the higher salary ceiling (+$20,000/yr).
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Best CISM courses
Is CompTIA PenTest+ harder than CISM?
CISM is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — CompTIA PenTest+ or CISM?
CompTIA PenTest+ has an average salary uplift of +$14,000/yr, while CISM has +$20,000/yr. CISM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA PenTest+ or CISM?
CompTIA PenTest+ is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISM.
Can I get both CompTIA PenTest+ and CISM?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA PenTest+ and CISM 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 — CompTIA PenTest+ or CISM?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA PenTest+ offers a +$14,000/yr average salary uplift; CISM offers +$20,000/yr. CISM has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.