Comparing AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Certifications

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Isha

14 November, 2025

Comparing AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Certifications

In a world which is driven by technology, cloud computing has become the backbone of every business and even the government. Be it data storage, AI integration or big data analytics, everything is powered by the cloud now. When you are surrounded by so much technology and a surplus of data, it is only natural that there will be a huge demand for cloud computing professionals. If you are aiming for this growing side of the Information Technology industry, one of the most direct ways to validate your expertise and boost your candidature is by earning one of the top IT certifications.

In the cloud computing ecosystem, there are three dominant providers: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform. These are among the most in-demand credentials for an IT professional. But the big question is, which one should you choose? In this blog, we have explained every nitty-gritty of AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, their benefits and differences.

Why Cloud Certifications Matter?

With businesses shifting to cloud-first strategies, the demand for expert professionals is increasing. That’s why these cloud certifications matter. Cloud computing courses are not like any other certification, they are the proof of your skills and expertise to help you stand out in the highly competitive job market.

According to various reports, global spending on cloud services is projected to cross the $678 billion dollar mark in the next 2 years. This implies that both cloud professionals’ salary and job opportunities are expected to increase.

Now, let’s understand each of the term in detail.

What is Google Cloud?

Formerly known as App Engine, Google Cloud is a cloud computing services suite established by Google in 2008. It may not have as much market share as Azure or AWS, it is rapidly growing especially in the AI and big data field. It provides facilities like infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS), and software-as-a-service (SaaS). Google Cloud is primarily a service to develop and maintain original applications that can get published from its data centres.

Some of the notable users of Google Cloud Platform are Apna, Arya.ag, Dcard, Filo, Manipal Hospitals, OPPO and others. Google offers specialised certifications at different levels like:


  • Foundational certification: Covers broad knowledge of cloud concepts and related products.

  • Associate certification: Focuses on fundamental skills to deploy and maintain cloud projects.

  • Professional certification: Validates your technical job functions and advanced skills in implementing and managing Google Cloud products.

Related: 5 Professional Online Certifications from Top MNCs to Land Jobs: Certifications from Google, IBM, Microsoft & More

Benefits of Pursuing Google Cloud Certification

Here are some of the benefits of pursuing Google Cloud certification: 


  • You get to reach the depths of AI, machine learning and advanced analytics.

  • The certification is highly adopted in data-driven industries like e-commerce, media and retail, which ensures wider career opportunities.

  • Prepares you for competitive salaries ranging between INR 9 to 20 LPA in India.

What is AWS?

AWS stands for Amazon Web Services. It offers computer resources and services that can construct applications in minutes. You can also rent a server on AWS to connect in order to configure, and run like a physical server. AWS certification is ideal for working professionals who ate working with startups or even global enterprises. Maximum business organisations invest in AWS. 

Related: 5 Most Popular Udemy Courses for AWS Certification

Benefits of Pursuing AWS Certifications

Here are the advantages of AWS certifications: 


  • It is the most widely recognised cloud certification globally.

  • Exposes you to a variety of services, covering almost 200+ services.

  • Being a globally recognised certification, it increases your salary potential.

  • Studying for this certification will keep you updated with the latest trends and developments in cloud technology.

  • You gain access to a global community of experienced professionals.

What is Azure Certification?

Among the others, Microsoft Azure has massive adoption in the market, especially in large-sized organisations which use Microsoft products. It is a public cloud platform that provides infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), software-as-a-service (SaaS), and platform-as-a-service (PaaS), storage, networking and virtual computing. It can effectively replace or enhance your on-premise servers. Its notable users are Air India, Infosys, RBL Bank, Tata projects, and Mail Moda. Azure certifications are best suited for IT professionals, developers and data and artificial intelligence.

Benefits of Pursuing Azure Credentials 

Let’s have a look at some of the benefits of pursuing Azure certification: 


  • You can advance your career with Azure certification and pitch for senior-level niche roles in the IT sector.

  • It opens doors to diverse career opportunities like cloud architect, developer, or solution architect.

  • Earning this certification increases your earning potential.

  • When you become a certified professional, you move towards improved job security.

  • At the corporate level, it provides seamless integration with Microsoft Office 365, Dynamics, and Teams.

Key Differences: AWS vs Azure vs Google Cloud

AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Platform are taking a lead into the digital world with a rush. Now that you fully aware of all the three certifications, let’s a draw a clear comparison between these. Since the competition is fierce, you should be aware of what each brings to the table. 

AWSAzureGoogle Cloud
Beginner-friendly with clear and concise progression. Offers plenty of free resources and community support.Easier if you are already familiar with Microsoft products. Ideal for students with prior IT experience.Slightly tougher at the professional level; requires strong programming fundamentals.
Expensive compared to other cloud certifications.Flexible but can get expensive at advanced levels.More affordable, especially for advanced exams.
Offers the widest career opportunities as AWS leads global cloud adoption.Popular among Microsoft users in corporate and enterprise settings.Highly used in AI, ML, and core data-related tools.
Tons of tutorials and forums available online.Microsoft Learn offers beginner-friendly and structured modules.Courses available on Coursera and Qwiklabs.
Average salary range after AWS certification: INR 12 – 25 LPA.With Azure certification, you can earn INR 10 – 22 LPA.Google Cloud certification can lead to salaries of INR 9 – 20 LPA.

Best Platforms to Access AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Certifications

Certifications in AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Platform have become the gold standards to validate your expertise. Earning these credentials can unlock several career opportunities and ultimately higher salaries. Best platforms to pursue these certifications include AWS Skill Builder, AWS Educate, Coursera, Udemy and Pluralsight. Let’s uncover some of the best certifications in each category one by one. 

Best AWS Certifications with Fees

AWS is a robust and high-demand area to polish your expertise in. Here are some of the most sought-after AWS certifications, along with their associated fees. 

Certification NameFees
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner100 USD
AWS Certified Developer – Associate150 USD
AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional300 USD

Best Azure Certifications with Fees

Microsoft Azure’s certifications are designed around particular job roles, making them relevant to the industry. The best platform to pursue Azure certifications is the Microsoft Learn portal, other than this, there are third-party platforms like Whizlabs, Pluralsight, etc. 

Certification NameFees
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals99 USD
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert165 USD
Azure API Management and Serverless Integration Services TrackINR 679

Best Google Cloud Certifications with Fees

The premier platforms to prepare for Google Cloud certification is Google Cloud Skills Boost (formerly known as Qwiklabs) and Coursera. Here are some of the best Google Cloud certifications: 

Certification NameFees
Cloud Digital LeaderUSD 99 (new registration)
Associate Cloud EngineerUSD 125
Cloud DevOps Engineering Professional CertificateUSD 200

Career Opportunities After Cloud Certifications 

It’s the digital era, you can rule with AWS, Azure or Google Cloud certification in hand. If you master these skills, you can get some of the high-paying jobs in the market, such as: 

Job RolePay Range (in INR)
Cloud ArchitectINR 28.1 LPA – INR 47.5 LPA
Cloud EngineerINR 8.1 LPA – INR 15.3 LPA
DevOps EngineerINR 8.6 LPA – INR 16 LPA
Data EngineerINR 11.5 LPA – INR 22.5 LPA
Security EngineerINR 10.4 LPA – INR 24 LPA
Cloud ConsultantINR 14.3 LPA – INR 30 LPA

Final Thoughts 

AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, all these certifications are basically the need of the hour in separate way. You can compare their benefits, cost, purpose and topics covered, but this cannot declare a single certification as best. Each has their own purpose and their need vaires as per your goals. So, you can learn about the particulars of this field, then based on your career goals, you can choose the ideal certification. In the future, cloud certifications are expected to become the most valuable skills in the market. Therefore, it is the perfect time to pursue cloud certifications. 

FAQ’s

Q.1. Which certification is better, GCP or AWS or Azure?

If you are focusing on big data and machine learning, GCP is a suitable option, whereas if you are targeting Microsoft services, Azure and AWS.

Q.2. Is GCP harder than AWS?

Since GCP has a developer-first approach, it is more challenging for enterprise users who are used to traditional cloud management techniques.

Q.3. Which Google certificate has the highest salary?

Google Cloud Database Engineer, DevOps Engineer, and Cloud Network Engineer are among the highest-paying Google certifications.

Q.4. Which Azure certification is most in demand?

Some of the in-demand Azure certifications are the entry-level AZ-900: Azure Fundamentals, AZ-104: Azure Administrator Associate, and AZ-400: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert.

Q.5. Do Google certificates expire?

Each certification has different features. Mostly, professional Google certifications are valid for two years, and associate or foundational exams are valid for three years.

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Isha - Author

Isha Education Counsellor / Editor

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Isha Jain holds a Bachelor's degree in Literature along with a Diploma in Digital Marketing, bringing a strong foundation in communication and content creation. With over 7 years of hands-on experience in the education domain, she has crafted impactful content across various formats - ranging from educational blogs and news articles to video scripts, newsletters, and learner-focused campaigns. As the editorial lead at Learning Routes, Isha plays a key role in shaping content that empowers students and working professionals to make confident choices about online courses and career-building certifications. Her deep understanding of the online education space is reflected in her writing, which aims to simplify complex decisions and provide real-world clarity to learners. Beyond her professional role, Isha has also written extensively on lifestyle and digital learning trends. She is passionate about guiding students and loves engaging in conversations around career development on platforms like LinkedIn, Quora, and Reddit. Whether it's recommending the right upskilling path or demystifying online education, she has helped countless learners take confident steps toward their goals. In her spare time, you’ll find Isha reading, traveling, or playing sports to stay active and inspired.

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