PRINCE2 Foundation
Widely recognised in Europe and the UK, PRINCE2 Foundation validates understanding of the PRINCE2 project management framework.
Full guide →CompTIA PenTest+
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →PRINCE2 Foundation vs CompTIA PenTest+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PRINCE2 Foundation | CompTIA PenTest+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$400 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$10,000/yr | ✓+$14,000/yr |
| Passing score | 55/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Axelos | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
PRINCE2 Foundation
None required
CompTIA PenTest+
Network+, Security+, or 3-4 years hands-on experience
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$10,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in Europe or the UK, where PRINCE2 is widely required by employers
- 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
PRINCE2 Foundation 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 PRINCE2 Foundation — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best PRINCE2 Foundation courses
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Is PRINCE2 Foundation harder than CompTIA PenTest+?
CompTIA PenTest+ is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — PRINCE2 Foundation or CompTIA PenTest+?
PRINCE2 Foundation has an average salary uplift of +$10,000/yr, while CompTIA PenTest+ has +$14,000/yr. CompTIA PenTest+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PRINCE2 Foundation or CompTIA PenTest+?
PRINCE2 Foundation 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 PRINCE2 Foundation and CompTIA PenTest+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PRINCE2 Foundation 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 — PRINCE2 Foundation or CompTIA PenTest+?
Both are worth it in 2026. PRINCE2 Foundation offers a +$10,000/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.