CompTIA PenTest+
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →CompTIA PenTest+ vs PMP
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA PenTest+ | PMP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$404 USD | $555 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$14,000/yr | ✓+$25,000/yr |
| Passing score | 750/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 165 min | 230 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | PMI |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA PenTest+
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
PMP
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
- 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 a seasoned PM targeting the most globally recognised credential
- You want a potential +$25,000/yr salary uplift
CompTIA PenTest+ and PMP lead to entirely different careers — cybersecurity vs project management. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with CompTIA PenTest+ — it's the quicker win at the intermediate level.
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Best PMP courses
Is CompTIA PenTest+ harder than PMP?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — CompTIA PenTest+ or PMP?
CompTIA PenTest+ has an average salary uplift of +$14,000/yr, while PMP has +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA PenTest+ or PMP?
CompTIA PenTest+ is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.
Can I get both CompTIA PenTest+ and PMP?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA PenTest+ and PMP complement each other, covering cybersecurity and project management respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CompTIA PenTest+ or PMP?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA PenTest+ offers a +$14,000/yr average salary uplift; PMP offers +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.