Professional Scrum Master I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →Azure Fundamentals
Microsoft's entry-level Azure certification covering cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, and pricing.
Full guide →Professional Scrum Master I vs Azure Fundamentals
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | Professional Scrum Master I | Azure Fundamentals |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $200 USD | ✓$165 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$9,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Passing score | 85/1000 | 700/1000 |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 65 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 2 years |
| Issued by | Scrum.org | Microsoft |
| Difficulty |
Professional Scrum Master I
None required
Azure Fundamentals
None required
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$9,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in agile teams and want to formalise Scrum Master skills
- You're new to cloud and want a foundational credential from Microsoft
- You want a potential +$6,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on Microsoft and you need the recognised entry-level credential
Professional Scrum Master I and Azure Fundamentals lead to entirely different careers — project management vs cloud computing. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with Professional Scrum Master I — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Is Professional Scrum Master I harder than Azure Fundamentals?
Both Professional Scrum Master I and Azure Fundamentals are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — Professional Scrum Master I or Azure Fundamentals?
Professional Scrum Master I has an average salary uplift of +$9,000/yr, while Azure Fundamentals has +$6,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Professional Scrum Master I or Azure Fundamentals?
Professional Scrum Master I is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Azure Fundamentals.
Can I get both Professional Scrum Master I and Azure Fundamentals?
Yes — many professionals hold both. Professional Scrum Master I and Azure Fundamentals complement each other, covering project management and cloud computing respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — Professional Scrum Master I or Azure Fundamentals?
Both are worth it in 2026. Professional Scrum Master I offers a +$9,000/yr average salary uplift; Azure Fundamentals offers +$6,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.