CEH vs PenTest+: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between CEH and PenTest+? This comprehensive guide breaks down the key differences in difficulty, cost, salary potential, prerequisites, and career outcomes to help you make the right decision for your professional goals.
CEH vs PenTest+: Overview
The CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) and PenTest+ (CompTIA PenTest+ Certification) are two of the most sought-after certifications in their field. While they share some common ground, each serves a distinct purpose and targets different career stages.
CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) is a widely recognized credential in its field. It certifies ethical hacking skills, teaching professionals to think like malicious hackers while legally testing organizational security defenses.
PenTest+ (CompTIA PenTest+ Certification) serves a complementary but distinct purpose. It validates hands-on penetration testing skills including planning, scoping, vulnerability assessment, and reporting for CompTIA-certified professionals.
Understanding the differences between these two certifications is essential for making an informed career decision. Let's examine each aspect in detail, from exam structure and difficulty to long-term earning potential. CEH Practice Test and PenTest+ Practice Test are both available on our platform to help you prepare for whichever path you choose.
Difficulty Comparison: CEH vs PenTest+
When comparing difficulty, the CEH is rated hard while the PenTest+ is considered moderate-hard. This difference reflects the depth and breadth of knowledge each exam tests.
The CEH exam consists of 125 questions with a passing score of 60–85% (varies by exam form). Candidates typically need 3–5 months study of dedicated preparation to feel confident on exam day.
The PenTest+ exam features Up to 85 questions with a passing threshold of 750/900. Most candidates invest 2–4 months study in preparation, though this can vary based on prior experience and study habits.
Both exams reward consistent, structured study. Practice tests are particularly valuable for building familiarity with question formats and identifying knowledge gaps before test day.
Salary and Career Outlook
Career earnings are a major factor when choosing between certifications. CEH holders can expect to earn $80,000–$110,000 annually, while PenTest+ credential holders typically earn $70,000–$95,000.
These figures represent national averages and can vary significantly based on location, years of experience, industry sector, and additional certifications held. Metropolitan areas and specialized roles often command premium salaries.
Beyond base salary, consider the long-term career trajectory. Some certifications open doors to management roles, specialized positions, or consulting opportunities that can significantly increase earning potential over time.
Review the official CompTIA exam content outline Take a diagnostic practice test to identify weak areas Create a study schedule (4-8 weeks recommended) Focus on your weakest domains first Complete at least 3 full-length practice exams Review all incorrect answers with detailed explanations Take a final practice test 1 week before exam day Prerequisites and Requirements
CEH Prerequisites:
- 2 years information security experience or official training
- Exam fee: $1,199 (exam only) or $2,199 (with training)
- Renewal: 3 years (120 ECE credits)
PenTest+ Prerequisites:
- Security+ or equivalent, 3–4 years hands-on experience
- Exam fee: $392
- Renewal: 3 years
Be sure to verify the most current requirements with the official certifying body, as prerequisites can change. Some organizations offer waivers or alternative pathways for candidates with significant work experience.
Which Should You Take First?
For most professionals, starting with PenTest+ is the recommended path. It provides foundational knowledge with a more accessible entry point, preparing you for the more demanding CEH certification.
With your PenTest+ credential in hand, you can gain practical experience that makes the CEH study material more concrete and manageable. Many successful professionals follow this progression.
That said, experienced professionals with strong backgrounds may choose to pursue CEH directly, especially if their career goals require the advanced credential sooner.
Prepare With Free Practice Tests
No matter which certification you choose, thorough preparation is the key to passing on your first attempt. Practice tests help you identify weak areas, build confidence, and get familiar with the exam format.
We offer comprehensive practice tests for both certifications:
- CEH Practice Test — Full-length practice questions with detailed explanations covering all exam domains
- PenTest+ Practice Test — Realistic mock exams designed to simulate the actual test experience
Each practice test includes detailed answer explanations and hints to guide your study. Track your progress over multiple attempts to ensure you are fully prepared on exam day.
CEH Pros and Cons
Pros
- CEH has a defined, publicly available content blueprint — candidates know exactly what to prepare for
- Multiple preparation pathways (self-study, courses, coaching) accommodate different learning styles and schedules
- A growing ecosystem of study resources means candidates at any budget level can access quality preparation materials
- Clear score reporting allows candidates to identify specific strengths and weaknesses for targeted remediation
- Professional recognition associated with strong performance provides tangible career and academic benefits
Cons
- The scope of tested content requires substantial preparation time that competes with existing professional or academic commitments
- No single resource covers the full content scope — candidates typically need multiple study tools for comprehensive preparation
- Test anxiety and exam-day performance variability mean preparation effort does not always translate linearly to scores
- Registration, preparation, and potential retake costs accumulate into a significant financial investment
- Content and format can change between exam versions, making older preparation materials less reliable
CEH vs PenTest+ Questions and Answers
Is CEH harder than PenTest+?
CEH is rated hard while PenTest+ is considered moderate-hard. The CEH exam has 125 questions requiring 3–5 months study of preparation, compared to Up to 85 questions and 2–4 months study for PenTest+. Difficulty also depends on your background and experience in the subject area.
Which pays more, CEH or PenTest+?
CEH holders typically earn $80,000–$110,000 annually, while PenTest+ professionals earn $70,000–$95,000. Actual earnings vary based on location, experience, employer, and additional qualifications. Both credentials can significantly boost your earning potential compared to uncertified professionals.
Can I take both CEH and PenTest+?
Yes, many professionals hold both certifications to broaden their career options and demonstrate comprehensive expertise. Holding both CEH and PenTest+ shows employers a well-rounded skill set and can open doors to senior positions that value diverse qualifications.
How much does CEH cost compared to PenTest+?
The CEH exam costs $1,199 (exam only) or $2,199 (with training), while the PenTest+ exam costs $392. These fees typically cover the exam only — study materials, preparation courses, and retake fees are additional costs to factor into your budget.
What are the prerequisites for CEH vs PenTest+?
CEH requires: 2 years information security experience or official training. PenTest+ requires: Security+ or equivalent, 3–4 years hands-on experience. Always verify current requirements with the official certifying body as prerequisites may change.
How long does it take to prepare for CEH and PenTest+?
CEH typically requires 3–5 months study of preparation, while PenTest+ needs 2–4 months study. These timeframes assume you have some relevant background knowledge. Complete beginners may need additional time. Practice tests and structured study plans can help you prepare more efficiently.
Which certification should I get first?
The best starting point depends on your current experience level, career goals, and the specific requirements of your target employers. If one certification builds foundational knowledge that supports the other, start with the foundational one. Research job postings in your desired field to see which certification is most requested.