CompTIA PenTest+ vs CompTIA CySA+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
CompTIA
CompTIA PenTest+
PT0-003
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA CySA+
CS0-003
Mid-level analyst certification focused on threat detection, security operations, and incident response.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CompTIA PenTest+ | CompTIA CySA+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$14,000/yr | +$12,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 165 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Intermediate |
CompTIA PenTest+ — Prerequisites
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
CompTIA CySA+ — Prerequisites
Security+ or equivalent experience, 3-4 years IT security experience
Get CompTIA PenTest+ if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$14,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
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
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Best CompTIA CySA+ courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CompTIA PenTest+ harder than CompTIA CySA+?
Both CompTIA PenTest+ and CompTIA CySA+ are rated intermediate difficulty.
Which pays more — CompTIA PenTest+ or CompTIA CySA+?
CompTIA PenTest+ has an average salary uplift of +$14,000/yr, while CompTIA CySA+ has +$12,000/yr. CompTIA PenTest+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA PenTest+ or CompTIA CySA+?
CompTIA PenTest+ is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA CySA+.