Confused about the accurate comparison between CompTIA A+ new and old versions? And couldn’t figure out what makes them different when they both are assisting you in choosing the same career. Well! Recently, in 2026, CompTIA launched its new version CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 certification, and it replaced the version of 220-1101 and 220-1102 certification. Interestingly, the domains covered are the same, but this time, the focus point is changed. To start your journey with this version, you need to know all the information about both versions. So here in this blog, we have mentioned all the parameters to share the comparison of CompTIA A+: 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 certification. With this, we provide the similarities too to get you completely aware of the whole information.
What is CompTIA A+ Certification❓
The CompTIA A+ Certification is a foundational level certification, and it is specially designed by CompTIA Platform. Here, you will be able to develop market-related expertise and knowledge, which will help you direct all operations of the IT Support Desk. Here, you will learn the fundamental techniques and concepts for stepping into the cloud and networking industry. To pass and excel in the field, you need to take two core exam tests. Now, CompTIA has arranged the new two Core exams, including the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and CompTIA A+ 220-1202 (which is the latest Comptia A+ version of CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Exam simultaneously).
➤ What is the real difference between the CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 and CompTIA 220-1201/1202?
The CompTIA A+ Certification is recently been updated, and it always came up with the two core exams. Passing both core exams is necessary to qualify for the CompTIA A+ Certification. The CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 was introduced in April 2022, and it is being replaced by the CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 Certification. Although they have similar approaches and focal points of both exams. For example, the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and CompTIA A+ 220-1201 certifications are more focused on building foundational-level knowledge about how one can use mobile devices, networking, hardware tools, and updated technology. On the other hand, the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 and CompTIA A+ 220-1202 certifications are on different methods of applying security software to make operations more effective.
You have seen that the key objective of both the certification exams is the same, but there is a key advancement in the domain topics and their respective percentages.
Delve Deeper Into: CompTIA A+ Certification: Exam Fees and Budgeting Tips
➤ CompTIA A+ Latest Version: 220-1101/1102 vs CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202: Their Head-to-Head Comparison
Now, you will see the direct comparison between the CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 certification. We have covered all the aspects that make them different from each other;
✦ Domain Topics for CompTIA A+220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 Certification
Below is the list of topics that you need to know before taking the CompTIA A+220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 Certification.
Domain Topics for CompTIA A+220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 Certification | |||
Mobile Devices (15%) | Mobile Devices (13%) | Operating Systems (31%) | Operating Systems (28%) |
Networking (20%) | Networking (23%) | Security (25%) | Security (28%) |
Hardware (25%) | Hardware (25%) | Software Troubleshooting (22%) | Software Troubleshooting (23%) |
Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%) | Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%) | Operational Procedures (22%) | Operational Procedures (21%) |
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (29%) | Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (28%) | - | - |
The more focused points for the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Exam are on delivering exceptional services on how to use mobile devices and solving the hardware and network issues. On the other hand, for CompTIA A+ 220-1201 Exam, the focal point is on networking.
If we look at the comparison of CompTIA A+ 220-1102 vs. CompTIA A+ 220-1202 exam, for the first exam, you will learn how to devise operational systems and their techniques. On the other hand, the most focal point of the CompTIA+ 220-1202 Exam is how much security is necessary, what parameters ensure smooth operations, and whether there is any root cause of software problems.
Explore Further: Which CompTIA Certification Should I Get First?
✦ Exam Outline Current CompTIA A+ Verison: Real Contrast 220-1101/220-1102 Vs 220-1201/220-1202 Certification
There is a slight difference between the Previous CompTIA A+ 220-1101/220-1102 Version and the Latest CompTIA A+ 220-1201/220-1202 Version certification, which will give you an overview of similarities and differences in the below-mentioned tables.
CompTIA A+220-1101/1102 | CompTIA A+220-1201/1202 | |
Exam Name | CompTIA A+ Certification | |
Code | 220-1101 | 220-1102 | 220-1201 | 220-1202 |
No of Questions | 90 Questions | |
Questions Type | Multiple choice questions (single and multiple response), drag and drop, and performance-based | |
Time Limit | 90 Minutes (For both exams) | |
Languages | English | German | Japanese | Portuguese | Thai | Spanish | French | English | German | Japanese |
Launching Date | April 2022 | March 2025 |
Passing Score | For 220-1101 | 220-1201: Both Passing scores are around 675 For 220-1102 |220-1202: Both Passing scores are around 700(For both, the scale is from 0-900.) | |
Delivery Type | Pearson VUE: Testing Center | Online Testing | |
Expiry Date | expires soon in Sep 2025 for English Language | in Dec 2025 for all other languages | Three years after the launch |
Vendor | ||
This is the whole contrasting exam information for CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 Exam. Although there is no such great difference in the exam outline.
Continue Browsing: Easiest CompTIA Certification
✦ Cost Comparison Analysis: CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 Certification
You have to pay almost $253(USD) as an exam cost for CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 while for CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 certification, you will invest almost $265 (USD) as cost. Moreover, the amount may vary from location to location.
Cost of CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 Certification | ||
Location | CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 Cost | CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 Cost |
United Kingdom | £192 | £201 |
China | ¥1,845 | ¥1,933 |
India | ₹21,783 | ₹22,816 |
France | €207 | €217 |
Australia | $400 | $419 |
Turkey | ₺9,623 | ₺10,080 |
Japan | ¥36,180 | ¥37,896 |
Russia | ₽20,894 | ₽21,884 |
On the other hand, if you are looking for money to spend for the retake exam, you need to pay almost $507(USD)* for the CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102, while for the CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 you need to pay almost $530(USD).
These both include the exam voucher + exam details.
Read More: Breakdown of CompTIA Exam Cost
Pass the CompTIA A+ Exam With Confidence
- Master essential IT skills: hardware, networking, and troubleshooting
- Learn OS, security, virtualization, and cloud tech – all in one place
- Practice with 500+ real, up-to-date A+ exam questions
- Get verified answers with detailed explanations for faster learning
- Build your confidence and pass on the first try
- The ultimate prep kit for aspiring IT support and helpdesk pros
➥ Similarities in CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 and 220-1201/1202 Certification
While all four certifications differ in objectives, exam domain topics, and the exam details, they all (CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 and 220-1201/1202) Certifications have similar target audience, eligibility criteria, costs, and future generated roles.
⌯⌲ Targeted Audience Previous and Latest CompTIA A+ Certification
The primary audience of both the CompTIA A+ Exam, although all the versions have the same purpose and it is especially designed for those who wants to enter into the IT and cloud Industry. And the professional who wanted to have a grip on the knowledge and expertise regarding how to perform all the operations of IT Support desk.
⌯⌲ Eligibility Requirements
You should have 12 months of prior experience in performing all the operations as an Information technology support expert or assistant. And have a grip on how to apply the software and cloud computing to solve each problem of hardware, software operations, and cloud systems.
On the other hand, you also have the leverage to complete 9 to 12 months of lab experience. Moreover, all four have similar requirements that need to be fulfilled to ace the CompTIA A+ exams.
Discover More: CompTIA IT Certification Roadmap: Establishing A Strong IT Career
⌯⌲ Retake Policy
If we are talking about the retake policy of CompTIA A+ Certification, the criterion that you need to know is to give your clear information that if you ever take the exam for the first time. You can avail yourself of the second attempt immediately. But for the third attempt, you need to wait for 14 calendar days.
⌯⌲ Renewal Policy
The CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 certifications are going to expire soon. This particular certification was launched in Apr 2022, and it is the policy of CompTIA that one particular certification will expire in three years. And in September 2025, this previous version is going to expire, and no need to apply for a renewal policy.
The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 Certifications were introduced in March 2025, and it will expire in three years. And within three years, you need to complete 20 CEUs. and when you fulfill the requirements, your certification is going to renew by its own.
⌯⌲ Cost of Renewal Fees
To renew your CompTIA A+ Certification, you need to pay almost $75(USD) for the Latest CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 Version and Previous CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 Version Certification.
⌯⌲ Job Position of Previous And Current CompTIA A+ Certifications
When you finally have the CompTIA A+ Certification, either the Previous CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 Version or Latest CompTIA A+ 220-1101/1102 Version Certifications in hand, you will get the chance to explore the below-mentioned job position;
- System Administration Position
- Help Desk Technician Position
- Business Analysis Position
Read More: CompTIA Stackable Certifications
╰┈➤ Salary Compensation Analysis: CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 and 220-1101/1102 Certification
The annual salary of both versions of CompTIA A+ Certification varies from around $40,000(USD) to $120,000(USD) while on the other hand you got estimated average salary of $64,000(USD). Moreover, if you want to deliver your services on an hourly basis, you will get the $31(USD).
➢ According to Location Basis
Below is the list of the annual salary of CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 and 220-1101/1102 Certification, and it may vary from location to location;
Annual Salary of CompTIA A+ 220-1201/1202 and 220-1101/1102 Certification | |||
Location | Annual Salary | Location | Annual Salary |
Nome, AK | $79,250 | California City, CA | $78,350 |
Berkeley, CA | $78,200 | Redwood City, CA | $78,500 |
Palo Alto, CA | $75,100 | Sunnyvale, CA | $75,000 |
Examine More: CompTIA Certification Salary Breakdown
📢 Wrapping Up
To conclude, the major comparison between CompTIA A+: 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202 certification are shared above by underling all the parameters. As we all know, this particular certification is designed to pave the direction towards cloud computing and networking industry. All the discussion mentioned above is the true depiction of the information that segregates both versions of certification. This will help you to not only choose the entry-level job roles but also pave the platform where you can demonstrate your expertise for getting the salary of your demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What is the real comparison between the two versions of CompTIA A+ Certification: 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202?
The CompTIA A+ Certification is one of the most in-demand and qualified certification for beginners who wants to start their career in the cloud computing and networking industry. To pass this exam, one had to take both the two core exams. But recently, the old versions 220-1101 and 220-1102 certification of the exam have been replaced by 220-1201 & 220-1202 certification. Here, you will experience a slight change of focus on a different domain, which was previously less targeted but now has more worth. Moreover, the exam cost incurred on this exam has been increased from $253(USD) to $265(USD).
What was the expiration date of the old version and the New launching date of the new version of CompTIA A+ Certification?
The launching date of the New version of CompTIA A+ 220-1102 and 220-1202 certification is March 2025, while the old version is still alive and it is going to expire in September 2025.
