CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →CompTIA PenTest+
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+ vs CompTIA PenTest+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA Security+ | CompTIA PenTest+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | ✓+$14,000/yr |
| Passing score | 750/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
CompTIA PenTest+
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
- You're entering IT security and need a globally recognised, vendor-neutral credential
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- You prefer credentials that work across vendors, not tied to one platform
- 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
Both are in the cybersecurity field but target different career stages. Start with CompTIA Security+ if you're building foundational skills — it's the natural stepping stone. Go straight to CompTIA PenTest+ if you already meet the prerequisites and want the higher salary ceiling (+$14,000/yr).
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Is CompTIA Security+ harder than CompTIA PenTest+?
CompTIA PenTest+ is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — CompTIA Security+ or CompTIA PenTest+?
CompTIA Security+ has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while CompTIA PenTest+ has +$14,000/yr. CompTIA PenTest+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Security+ or CompTIA PenTest+?
CompTIA Security+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA PenTest+.
Can I get both CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA PenTest+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA PenTest+ 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 Security+ or CompTIA PenTest+?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA Security+ offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA PenTest+ offers +$14,000/yr. CompTIA PenTest+ has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.