A+ Core 1 vs Core 2: Which Is Harder, and Which Should You Take First?

A+ is unique among entry-level certifications: you have to pass two separate exams, Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). That raises two questions every candidate asks — which is harder, and which should I take first? This article answers both and helps you plan the path to passing both.

New to A+ overall? The complete A+ guide covers the essentials. This piece is about the two exams and how they compare.

The one-line difference

Core 1 is the hardware and connectivity side — the physical, tangible layer of IT. Core 2 is the software, security, and procedures side — the more abstract layer. You can see and touch most of Core 1; much of Core 2 lives in concepts, commands, and scenarios.

What each exam covers

Core 1 (220-1201): Mobile Devices (13%), Networking (23%), Hardware (25%), Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%), and Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (28%). More than half is hardware plus hardware troubleshooting. Full detail in the Core 1 domains guide.

Core 2 (220-1202): Operating Systems (28%), Security (28%), Software Troubleshooting (23%), and Operational Procedures (21%). Operating Systems plus Security is 56% of the exam. Full detail in the Core 2 domains guide.

Which is harder?

Most candidates find Core 2 the harder of the two, for a few concrete reasons:

• Higher passing score. Core 2 requires 700 on a 100–900 scale; Core 1 requires 675. That's a slightly tighter margin.
• Heavy memorization. Core 2 demands command-line fluency (Windows commands like sfc, DISM, gpupdate; basic Linux commands) and a large body of security terminology.
• Breadth of security. At 28%, the Security domain alone covers malware, attacks, authentication, encryption, wireless security, and hardening — more ground than some entire certifications.
• Scenario density. Core 2 loves "a user reports…" questions that require you to identify the problem, choose the right step, and know the right tool.

Core 1 isn't easy — its hardware detail and troubleshooting are demanding — but its content is concrete and its passing bar is a touch lower. If you've built or fixed a PC, Core 1 will feel more familiar.

Which should you take first?

There's no rule; you can take them in either order and schedule them independently. But the common, sensible choice is Core 1 first:

• It builds hands-on device and networking confidence you can carry into Core 2.
• Its concrete content is an easier place to get comfortable with A+'s question style and PBQs.
• The lower passing score makes a first win a little more attainable, which builds momentum.

That said, if your background is stronger on the software and security side — say you've done some OS administration — starting with Core 2 is perfectly valid. Play to your strengths for the first win, then tackle the other.

How to plan for both

A few practical tips:

1. Don't study both at once. Focus on one core, pass it, then pivot. Splitting attention slows both down.
2. Mind the version rule. Both passes must come from the same series — for anyone starting now, that's 220-1201 and 220-1202. Don't let a long gap risk a version change between your two exams.
3. Budget for two exams. You'll register, pay, and sit each separately, so plan a voucher for each. A retake option purchased up front can cover a second attempt if one exam doesn't go your way.

Our study plan sequences both cores end to end.

Getting started

Whichever order you choose, a structured course covering both cores keeps your preparation consistent.

Get started: CompTIA A+ Core 1 & 2 CertMaster Learn (V15). When you're ready, you'll need a voucher for each exam — pick up an A+ exam voucher, or the voucher-plus-retake option. As an Authorized CompTIA Partner, materials are official.

A note on voucher eligibility: Voucher eligibility depends on your exam testing location, per CompTIA policy. Testing in an emerging-market region? We don't sell those here — contact us.

FAQ

Is Core 1 or Core 2 harder? Most candidates find Core 2 harder, due to its higher passing score (700 vs 675), heavy command-line and security content, and scenario density.

Which should I take first? Most people take Core 1 first to build confidence, but either order is valid. Start with the side that plays to your strengths.

Do both exams have to be the same version? Yes. Both passes must come from the same series — currently 220-1201 and 220-1202. Don't mix versions.

Can I take them on the same day? You can, but almost nobody does. They're scheduled separately, and most people space them out.

If I fail one, do I lose the other? No. Your passing result stands. You only retake the exam you failed.