Comparison
TryHackMe vs HackTheBox
Two of the best platforms to learn hacking. TryHackMe holds your hand; HackTheBox brings you closer to a real pentest. We break down which one fits you — and how to show your verified progress.
The learning curve
Which is better to start from scratch?
TryHackMe is built for beginners: guided paths, theory and hints that walk you through step by step. HackTheBox is less guided and more realistic, so it demands a stronger base but brings you closer to how a real pentest works.
- TryHackMe: guided paths and hints, ideal for your first months
- HackTheBox: machines with no walkthrough, closer to a real environment
- Most people start on TryHackMe and then jump to HackTheBox
The verification
Turn your progress into public proof
Rank and machines do not show up on a CV. CyberProfile brings them together in a public profile verified at the source, so a recruiter does not have to take your word for it: they can check it.
- The HackTheBox connection is already available: rank and machines verified
- The TryHackMe one is coming soon
- A public link with your achievements imported from their source
Show your verified HackTheBox
Free. Imported from the source. No credit card.
What are TryHackMe and HackTheBox?
Both are online platforms to learn ethical hacking with hands-on machines and challenges. TryHackMe was born with a very didactic, guided approach; HackTheBox, with a more competitive one closer to a real environment. They are not mutually exclusive: many professionals combine them depending on what they want to practice at any moment.
Which has the gentler learning curve?
- TryHackMe: short, guided rooms with theory and step-by-step hints — almost impossible to get stuck.
- HackTheBox: machines with no walkthrough that force you to enumerate and think like you would in a real pentest.
- Honest recommendation: start on TryHackMe and, once comfortable, make the jump to HackTheBox.
How much does each one cost?
- TryHackMe: generous free tier + Premium subscription for advanced rooms and paths.
- HackTheBox: active machines for free + VIP/VIP+ for retired machines and better infrastructure.
- Both have plenty of free content; to get the most out of them, both charge a similar subscription.
Which prepares you better for OSCP and other certifications?
- HackTheBox: its machines and Pro Labs feel closer to the exam; it is the reference to prepare the OSCP.
- TryHackMe: structured paths ideal to build your base before going for a certification.
- Both have their own certifications; neither replaces constant practice.
Which has the better community and writeups?
- TryHackMe: huge community and very welcoming for people just starting.
- HackTheBox: large, competitive community with very technical writeups and CTFs.
- On both you will find active writeups and Discord to get unstuck.
How do I prove my progress to a recruiter?
Neither your HackTheBox rank nor your TryHackMe rooms show up on a PDF resume. CyberProfile brings your achievements together in a public profile verified at the source: today the HackTheBox connection is already available (it imports your rank and machines) and the TryHackMe one is coming soon. A recruiter does not have to take your word for it: they can check it with one click.
Which one should you pick?
- Starting from scratch: TryHackMe first, for its guided curve.
- Intermediate level or preparing OSCP: HackTheBox, for its realism.
- The ideal: use both and bring your verified progress together in a single link.
Frequently asked questions
TryHackMe or HackTheBox to get started?
To start from scratch, TryHackMe is usually better: its rooms are short, guided and full of step-by-step hints, so you rarely get stuck. HackTheBox is tougher and less guided, ideal once you have a base. The common path is to begin on TryHackMe and move to HackTheBox.
Is HackTheBox better for OSCP prep?
For the OSCP, HackTheBox machines and its Pro Labs feel closer to the exam and are the reference for many who prepare it. That said, TryHackMe has very structured paths to build your base, and no platform replaces constant practice or HackTheBox Academy.
Which is cheaper, TryHackMe or HackTheBox?
Both have a generous free tier and a similarly priced subscription. TryHackMe charges Premium for advanced rooms and paths; HackTheBox charges VIP/VIP+ for retired machines and better infrastructure. You can get far for free on both before paying.
Can I connect my TryHackMe to CyberProfile?
Not yet: the HackTheBox connection is already available (it imports your rank and machines verified at the source) and the TryHackMe one is coming soon. In the meantime you can create your profile, connect HackTheBox and add the rest of the platforms as they go live.
Do I need to use both platforms?
It is not mandatory, but they complement each other well: TryHackMe to learn in a guided way and HackTheBox to practice in a realistic environment. Many professionals combine both and bring their verified progress together in a single public profile.
Bring your HackTheBox into a verified profile
Rank and machines imported from the source. In 60 seconds.
- Free forever
- No credit card
- Ready in 60s
- Verified at the source