Azure vs AWS for Beginners – Which One Should You Learn First?
Choosing between Azure vs AWS for beginners can feel overwhelming. Both platforms dominate the cloud industry and offer beginner-friendly certifications. In this guide, we compare them across five key areas to help you decide where to start your cloud journey.
Ease of Learning for Absolute Beginners
Microsoft Azure offers a more structured learning path through its Azure Fundamentals learning modules. The AZ-900 certification is designed with business users and non-developers in mind, making it more approachable than AWS’s introductory certifications.
AWS, on the other hand, assumes a slightly more technical background, especially in the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. It’s still beginner-level, but may involve more infrastructure-related terms upfront.
Certifications: AZ-900 vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Both AZ-900 (Microsoft Azure) and Cloud Practitioner (AWS) are entry-level certifications. However:
- AZ-900 focuses more on cloud concepts, governance, pricing, and compliance
- AWS Cloud Practitioner emphasizes billing, security, and shared responsibility model
If you’re already familiar with Microsoft tools or plan to work in hybrid environments, AZ-900 may feel easier and more relevant.
Career Demand for Azure and AWS
AWS currently holds the largest cloud market share globally, which translates to a wider pool of jobs. However, Azure is growing faster in the enterprise segment and government sectors, especially in regions like Europe and Asia-Pacific.
Many enterprises use both, so choosing one doesn’t lock you out. However, getting started with Azure may offer better alignment with Microsoft-heavy workplaces and job listings that prefer AZ-900.
Which Platform Is Better for Beginners?
- Choose Azure if you want smoother onboarding, strong integration with Microsoft services, and a structured path starting from AZ-900.
- Choose AWS if you aim to work with startups, open-source stacks, or multi-cloud environments.
Conclusion: Azure or AWS for First-Time Cloud Learners?
When comparing Azure vs AWS for beginners, the best choice depends on your background and career goals. If you’re looking for clear guidance, a business-friendly syllabus, and a platform that integrates with tools like Microsoft 365 or Teams, Azure’s AZ-900 is a strong first step.
Ready to explore Azure in depth? Visit our AZ-900 exam guide to get started with free practice questions and a complete prep roadmap.