2026 Comparison
service
Data last verified: January 2026
Physical Penetration Testing vs Social Engineering
Physical pentests test facility security. Social engineering tests human vulnerabilities.
Pricing verified Q1 202645+ vendor interviews127+ data sourcesUpdated monthly
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Physical Pentest | Social Engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Target | Physical access controls | Human behavior |
| Methods | Lock picking, tailgating, badges | Phishing, vishing, pretexting |
| Cost | $10,000-$50,000 | $5,000-$25,000 |
| Location | On-site required | Can be remote |
| Common Findings | Badge access issues, tailgating | Credential disclosure, access granted |
Our Verdict
Social engineering is more common and impactful. Physical pentest for high-security facilities.
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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