Career changers seeking IT support roles often evaluate low-cost, no-degree certifications to build skills without traditional education. These options are critical for transitioning into enterprise IT help desk roles where practical expertise is valued.
When choosing between CompTIA A+, CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+), and Google IT Support Professional Certificate, understanding their relevance to enterprise environments helps align training with real-world job demands and wage expectations.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Price | Free Plan | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA A+ | $253 per exam (two exams required, ~$506 total) — per-exam price can vary by region/reseller, confirm on official CompTIA store before publishing | Free practice questions available on CompTIA site (Core 1: comptia.org/en-us/certifications/a/core-1-v15/practice-questions/, Core 2: .../core-2-v15/practice-questions/) | 2026-09-16 |
| CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+) | 확인 불가 — 공식 페이지(comptia.org/en-us/certifications/itf-pro/)에 정확한 시험비 표시 안 됨. 3rd-party 소스는 리브랜딩 전 ITF+ 기준 $130-$138로 추정(2024년 말 Tech+로 리브랜딩, 2025년 ITF+ 단종됨 — 가격 재확인 필수) | 확인 불가 — CertMaster Learn/Practice/Labs(10-40시간 분량)는 전부 유료로 확인됨, 무료 자료 언급 없음 | 2026-09-16 |
| Google IT Support Professional Certificate | $49/month via Coursera after 7-day free trial (typical completion 3-6 months → roughly $150-$300 total; includes 3 months Google AI Pro bonus) | 7-day free trial; Coursera financial aid available | 2026-09-16 |
CompTIA A+
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
CompTIA A+ is a foundational IT support certification that validates foundational knowledge in hardware, networking, and security. It consists of two exams required to complete, with a total cost of approximately $506 when purchasing both exams at the standard per-exam price.
- Two required exams (Core 1 and Core .2) that cover essential IT support skills
- Free practice questions available on the official CompTIA website for both exam sections
- Recognized globally as a starting point for IT careers and entry-level roles
Career changers seeking a low-cost, no-degree certification to enter IT support roles with internationally recognized credentials.
- Offers a recognized entry-level certification with clear pathways to higher IT roles
- Includes free practice resources to help prepare for the exams
- The total cost of both exams may vary by region and reseller, requiring confirmation on the official CompTIA store
CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+)
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+) is a foundational IT support certification that prepares individuals for help desk roles. It focuses on core IT concepts and practical skills needed for entry-level technical positions.
- Hands-on practice with real-world scenarios through CertMaster Labs
- Comprehensive coverage of IT infrastructure, networking, and security fundamentals
- Industry-recognized credential with strong employer demand
Career changers seeking entry-level IT support roles with a certification that has proven value in the job market.
- Validated by employers as a strong entry point for IT support careers
- Exam pricing details are not consistently displayed on the official website, and third-party estimates may vary
Google IT Support Professional Certificate
Verified 2026-09-16Overview
The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is a certified program in IT Support & Help Desk that provides practical skills for entry-level technical roles. It is available through Coursera with a 7-day free trial and a typical completion time of 3-6 months.
- Includes 3 months of Google AI Pro bonus
- Offered via Courser: 7-day free trial and financial aid
- Pricing of $49/month after trial, totaling roughly $150-$300
Career changers seeking entry-level IT support roles with a recognized certification and flexible learning options.
- Offers a recognized certification that can lead to entry-level IT roles
- Provides flexible learning options with Coursera's financial aid
- High cost compared to some free alternatives
Which Certification Is Best
CompTIA A+ is best for career changers seeking foundational IT skills with a recognized certification that requires two exams (~$506 total). CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+) may suit those transitioning from legacy ITF+ systems, but its pricing and availability are uncertain as it ends in 2025 with a price estimate of $130-$138 per exam (two exams). The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is ideal for those preferring a flexible, self-paced learning path with a lower total cost (~$150-$300) but no formal certification exam.
Best Overall Recommendation
For career changers building enterprise-level IT support skills with real wage data, the Google IT Support Professional Certificate is the best overall recommendation due to its lower total cost (~$150-$300), flexible learning schedule, and direct alignment with modern enterprise needs without the exam fees of CompTIA A+ or the uncertain transition of CompTIA Tech+.
FAQ
What's the total cost for CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ requires two exams at $253 per exam (total ~$506). Per-exam price may vary by region/reseller; confirm on official CompTIA store.
What's the estimated cost for CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+)?
CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+) pricing is not confirmed on official CompTIA pages. Third-party sources estimate $130-$138 per exam (2024 end rebranding to Tech+). Note: ITF+ will discontinue in 2025, so price verification is essential.
How much does the Google IT Support Professional Certificate cost?
Google IT Support Professional Certificate costs $49/month via Coursera after a 7-day free trial. Total cost for typical completion (3-6 months) is roughly $150-$300.
Which certification should I choose for an enterprise team?
To determine the best fit for an enterprise team, consider your team's specific needs: CompTIA A+ covers foundational IT skills, CompTIA Tech+ (formerly ITF+) focuses on enterprise-level support, and Google's certificate provides cloud and modern IT support skills. All options require verifying current pricing and availability, as Tech+ is transitioning from ITF+ and prices may change.
Pricing and feature details on this page are independently researched and verified against official sources.
Pricing shown was accurate at the time of publishing and may change — verify on the official site.