Professional Scrum Master I vs Azure Fundamentals
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Scrum.org
Professional Scrum Master I
PSM I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
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 | Professional Scrum Master I | Azure Fundamentals |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $200 USD | ✓$165 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$9,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 65 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 2 years |
| Issued by | Scrum.org | Microsoft |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
Professional Scrum Master I — Prerequisites
None required
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
Get Professional Scrum Master I if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$9,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Scrum.org
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 Professional Scrum Master I courses
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Frequently asked questions
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.