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