PMP vs Azure Fundamentals
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
PMI
PMP
PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →Microsoft
Azure Fundamentals
AZ-900
Microsoft's entry-level Azure certification covering cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, and pricing.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | PMP | Azure Fundamentals |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $555 USD | ✓$165 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$25,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 230 min | 65 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 2 years |
| Issued by | PMI | Microsoft |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Beginner |
PMP — Prerequisites
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
Get PMP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$25,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Get Azure Fundamentals if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$6,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Microsoft
Best PMP courses
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Frequently asked questions
Is PMP harder than Azure Fundamentals?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — PMP or Azure Fundamentals?
PMP has an average salary uplift of +$25,000/yr, while Azure Fundamentals has +$6,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMP or Azure Fundamentals?
Azure Fundamentals is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.