2026 Comparison
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Data last verified: January 2026

Bug Bounty vs Penetration Testing: Which Do You Need?

Bug bounty is ongoing crowdsourced. Pentest is structured and scheduled.

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Pricing verified Q1 202645+ vendor interviews127+ data sourcesUpdated monthly

Side-by-Side Comparison

FactorBug BountyPenetration Testing
DurationContinuousTime-boxed
Cost ModelPay per valid bugFixed project fee
TestersMany researchersDedicated team
Report QualityVariableComprehensive
ComplianceSupplement onlySatisfies requirements

Our Verdict

Pentest for compliance. Bug bounty for ongoing security after you have basics covered.

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Research Methodology

Pricing data compiled from 127+ vendor quotes, 45+ customer interviews, and public RFP responses. Reviewed by security industry experts with 20+ years combined experience.

Last verified: January 2026 • Next update: April 2026

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