CEH vs PenTest+ Certification
Compare CEH and CompTIA PenTest+ certifications for penetration testing careers.
CEH
EC-Council
CompTIA PenTest+
CompTIA
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | CEH | CompTIA PenTest+ |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | EC-Council | CompTIA |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Exam Duration | 4 hours | 165 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $1,199 USD | $392 USD |
| Exam Format | 125 questions | Multiple choice + performance-based |
| Prerequisites | 2 years experience or training | Network+, Security+ recommended |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Aspiring ethical hackers | Penetration testers seeking vendor-neutral cert |
| Salary Range | $85,000 - $130,000 | $80,000 - $130,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
CEH Focus Areas
- Hacking Methodology
- Tools
- Techniques
- Countermeasures
CompTIA PenTest+ Focus Areas
- Planning
- Information Gathering
- Attacks
- Reporting
Our Recommendation
CEH is more recognized globally; PenTest+ is more affordable and practical.
Choose CEH
Choose CEH for global recognition and HR checkbox requirements.
Choose CompTIA PenTest+
Choose PenTest+ for practical skills at lower cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CEH or CompTIA PenTest+?
CEH is more recognized globally; PenTest+ is more affordable and practical.
What are the salary differences between CEH?
CEH typically offers salaries around $85,000 - $130,000, while CompTIA PenTest+ offers $80,000 - $130,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose CEH for global recognition and HR checkbox requirements. Choose PenTest+ for practical skills at lower cost.
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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