If you're interested in cybersecurity, penetration testing, or ethical hacking, you've probably heard of TryHackMe (THM) and HackTheBox (HTB). Both platforms offer hands-on labs, challenges, and virtual machines to help you develop your hacking skills.
But which one is better? Should you use TryHackMe, HackTheBox, or both?
In this massive guide, we'll break down every aspect of both platforms—difficulty, learning paths, pricing, community, and more—so you can decide which one fits your needs.
Table of Contents
1. What is TryHackMe?
TryHackMe (THM) is an online cybersecurity training platform designed for beginners and intermediate learners. It provides guided learning paths, interactive rooms, and step-by-step tutorials to teach hacking concepts in an easy-to-understand way.
Key Features:
- ✔ Beginner-friendly
- ✔ Structured learning paths (e.g., "Complete Beginner," "Offensive Pentesting")
- ✔ Interactive walkthroughs & write-ups
- ✔ Gamified approach (points, ranks, and badges)
- ✔ Free & paid plans available
Best for: New hackers, students, and those who prefer guided learning.
2. What is HackTheBox?
HackTheBox (HTB) is a more advanced cybersecurity platform where users can hack into virtual machines (VMs) in a safe, legal environment. Unlike TryHackMe, HTB is less guided and expects users to have some prior knowledge.
Key Features:
- ✔ Realistic hacking scenarios
- ✔ Active & retired machines (challenge boxes)
- ✔ Competitive elements (leaderboards, challenges)
- ✔ Strong community & forums
- ✔ Requires VPN for access
Best for: Intermediate to advanced hackers, penetration testers, and CTF players.
3. Difficulty Level Comparison
| Feature | TryHackMe | HackTheBox |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner-Friendly | ✅ Yes, very structured | ❌ No, assumes some knowledge |
| Intermediate | ✅ Good balance | ✅ Best for mid-level hackers |
| Advanced | ❌ Limited | ✅ Excellent for experts |
| Walkthroughs | ✅ Full guides available | ❌ Minimal help, more self-learning |
Verdict:
- Beginners → TryHackMe is better.
- Experienced hackers → HackTheBox offers tougher challenges.
4. Learning Structure & Paths
TryHackMe Learning Paths
THM offers structured courses like:
- Complete Beginner (for absolute starters)
- Pre-Security (basic IT & networking)
- Offensive Pentesting (ethical hacking)
- Cyber Defense (blue team skills)
Each path has tasks, quizzes, and virtual machines to practice on.
HackTheBox Learning Approach
HTB is less structured—you pick a machine and hack it. There are:
- Active Machines (live challenges)
- Retired Machines (with write-ups available)
- Challenges (mini CTF-style puzzles)
Verdict:
- Want step-by-step lessons? → TryHackMe.
- Prefer hands-on, trial-and-error? → HackTheBox.
5. Types of Challenges & Machines
TryHackMe Rooms
- Walkthrough Rooms (guided hacking)
- CTF Challenges (capture the flag)
- Attack/Defense Labs (simulated networks)
HackTheBox Machines
- Easy, Medium, Hard, Insane (difficulty levels)
- TJ Null's List (curated machines for OSCP prep)
- Endgames & Fortresses (advanced network attacks)
Verdict:
- THM = Better for learning concepts.
- HTB = Better for real-world practice.
6. User Interface & Experience
| Feature | TryHackMe | HackTheBox |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | ✅ Very simple | ❌ Requires VPN & setup |
| UI Design | ✅ Clean & modern | ✅ Functional but dated |
| Accessibility | ✅ Browser-based | ❌ Needs OpenVPN |
Verdict: TryHackMe is easier to start, while HTB requires initial setup.
7. Community & Support
- TryHackMe → Active Discord, helpful walkthroughs.
- HackTheBox → Strong forum, but less hand-holding.
Verdict: Both have great communities, but THM is more beginner-supportive.
8. Pricing & Free vs. Paid Plans
| Plan | TryHackMe | HackTheBox |
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | ✅ Limited rooms | ✅ Access to some machines |
| Paid Plan | $10/month (all rooms) | $14/month (VIP for retired machines) |
| Student Discount | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Verdict: TryHackMe is cheaper, but HTB has more advanced content.
9. Certifications & Career Benefits
TryHackMe Certificates
- Room-specific certificates (e.g., "Jr. Penetration Tester")
- Learning Path completion badges
HackTheBox Certifications
- HTB Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) (paid exam)
- Respected in the industry for practical skills
Verdict:
- THM = Good for beginners.
- HTB = Better for professionals.
10. Which One Should You Choose?
Pick TryHackMe If You:
- 🔹 Are a complete beginner.
- 🔹 Like structured learning.
- 🔹 Want affordable training.
Pick HackTheBox If You:
- 🔹 Have some experience.
- 🔹 Prefer realistic hacking challenges.
- 🔹 Are preparing for OSCP or job interviews.
Best Option? Use Both!
- Learn basics on TryHackMe → Practice on HackTheBox.
Final Verdict: TryHackMe vs HackTheBox
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Beginner-Friendly | TryHackMe |
| Advanced Challenges | HackTheBox |
| Learning Structure | TryHackMe |
| Real-World Practice | HackTheBox |
| Price | TryHackMe |
| Certifications | HackTheBox |
Conclusion:
- New to hacking? Start with TryHackMe.
- Already skilled? Move to HackTheBox.
- Want the best of both? Use both platforms!
What's Your Choice?
Do you prefer TryHackMe or HackTheBox? Let me know in the comments!
🔗 TryHackMe: https://tryhackme.com
🔗 HackTheBox: https://www.hackthebox.com
Happy Hacking! 🚀