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 →CompTIA PenTest+
Hands-on penetration testing certification covering planning, scoping, vulnerability scanning, and reporting.
Full guide →Professional Scrum Master I vs CompTIA PenTest+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | Professional Scrum Master I | CompTIA PenTest+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$200 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$9,000/yr | ✓+$14,000/yr |
| Passing score | 85/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Scrum.org | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
Professional Scrum Master I
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 +$9,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in agile teams and want to formalise Scrum Master skills
- 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
Professional Scrum Master I 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 Professional Scrum Master I — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Best CompTIA PenTest+ courses
Is Professional Scrum Master I harder than CompTIA PenTest+?
CompTIA PenTest+ is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — Professional Scrum Master I or CompTIA PenTest+?
Professional Scrum Master I has an average salary uplift of +$9,000/yr, while CompTIA PenTest+ has +$14,000/yr. CompTIA PenTest+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Professional Scrum Master I or CompTIA PenTest+?
Professional Scrum Master I 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 Professional Scrum Master I and CompTIA PenTest+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. Professional Scrum Master I 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 — Professional Scrum Master I or CompTIA PenTest+?
Both are worth it in 2026. Professional Scrum Master I offers a +$9,000/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.