GCP Architect vs Azure Architect Certification
Compare Google Cloud Professional Architect and Azure Solutions Architect Expert.
Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect
Google Cloud
Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
Microsoft
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect | Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305) |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Google Cloud | Microsoft |
| Difficulty Level | Professional | Expert |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours | 120 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $200 USD | $165 USD |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice + case studies | 40-60 questions + case studies |
| Prerequisites | 3+ years experience | AZ-104 or equivalent |
| Validity Period | 2 years | 1 year (renewal) |
| Ideal For | Architects on Google Cloud | Architects on Microsoft Azure |
| Salary Range | $145,000 - $200,000 | $140,000 - $190,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect Focus Areas
- GCP Architecture
- Security
- BigQuery
- Kubernetes
- ML Integration
Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305) Focus Areas
- Azure Design
- Identity
- Data
- Infrastructure
- Business Continuity
Our Recommendation
Both are excellent. GCP excels in data/ML; Azure in enterprise Microsoft integration.
Choose Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect
Choose GCP for data-centric architectures and Kubernetes.
Choose Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
Choose Azure for enterprise Microsoft ecosystem integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect or Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)?
Both are excellent. GCP excels in data/ML; Azure in enterprise Microsoft integration.
What are the salary differences between Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect?
Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect typically offers salaries around $145,000 - $200,000, while Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305) offers $140,000 - $190,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose GCP for data-centric architectures and Kubernetes. Choose Azure for enterprise Microsoft ecosystem integration.
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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