CompTIA PenTest+ vs CompTIA Security+
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 Security+
SY0-701
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CompTIA PenTest+ | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$14,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 165 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
CompTIA PenTest+ — Prerequisites
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
CompTIA Security+ — Prerequisites
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
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 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 CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CompTIA PenTest+ harder than CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA PenTest+ is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — CompTIA PenTest+ or CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA PenTest+ has an average salary uplift of +$14,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. CompTIA PenTest+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA PenTest+ or CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA PenTest+.