AZ-900 vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Compare Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) and AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C02). Which entry-level cloud certification should you get first?
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Microsoft
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
Amazon Web Services
Detailed Comparison
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | Microsoft Azure Fundamentals | AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Microsoft | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty Level | Foundational | Foundational |
| Exam Duration | 60 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $99 | $100 |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice | Multiple choice, multiple answer |
| Prerequisites | None — entry-level | None — 6 months cloud experience recommended |
| Validity Period | Lifetime (no renewal required) | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Beginners exploring Azure or working in Microsoft-stack environments | Beginners entering cloud computing or working in AWS environments |
| Salary Range | $85,000 | $95,000 |
Coverage Areas
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Focus Areas
- Cloud Concepts
- Azure Services
- Security & Compliance
- Pricing & Support
- Azure Management Tools
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Focus Areas
- Cloud Concepts
- AWS Services
- Security
- Billing & Pricing
- Technology
- Cloud Architecture
Expert Verdict
Our Recommendation
Both are excellent entry-level cloud certifications. AZ-900 is cheaper, shorter, and never expires. AWS Cloud Practitioner has higher salary potential and AWS dominates market share. Many professionals get both.
Choose Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Choose AZ-900 if you work in a Microsoft/enterprise environment or want a lifetime credential at a lower cost.
Choose AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
Choose AWS Cloud Practitioner if you're targeting startups, tech companies, or the largest cloud ecosystem.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals or AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner?
Both are excellent entry-level cloud certifications. AZ-900 is cheaper, shorter, and never expires. AWS Cloud Practitioner has higher salary potential and AWS dominates market share. Many professionals get both.
What are the salary differences between Microsoft Azure Fundamentals?
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals typically offers salaries around $85,000, while AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner offers $95,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose AZ-900 if you work in a Microsoft/enterprise environment or want a lifetime credential at a lower cost. Choose AWS Cloud Practitioner if you're targeting startups, tech companies, or the largest cloud ecosystem.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
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