2026 Comparison
service
Data last verified: January 2026
Penetration Testing vs Bug Bounty: Which to Choose?
Pentests provide structured assessments. Bug bounties offer ongoing crowdsourced testing.
Pricing verified Q1 202645+ vendor interviews127+ data sourcesUpdated monthly
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Penetration Testing | Bug Bounty |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Fixed timeframe (1-4 weeks) | Ongoing/continuous |
| Cost Model | Fixed project fee | Pay per valid finding |
| Testers | Dedicated team | Crowd of researchers |
| Compliance | Provides audit evidence | Limited compliance value |
| Coverage | Comprehensive, methodical | Opportunistic, varied |
Our Verdict
Penetration testing for compliance and baselines. Bug bounty for mature programs wanting continuous testing.
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
Ready to Get Started?
Get matched with vetted vendors and receive competitive quotes within 24 hours.
Get Quotes Now