Introduction
If you’re starting out in cybersecurity, you’ve almost certainly heard of TryHackMe and HackTheBox (HTB). Both offer virtual labs where you can practise hacking legally — but they cater to different audiences.
In this guide, we’ll compare TryHackMe vs HackTheBox in 2025 across learning style, accessibility, labs, and career readiness. By the end, you’ll know which platform is right for your goals — especially if you’re a beginner looking to break into the field.
1. Learning Style & Accessibility
- TryHackMe: Structured, guided learning with step-by-step labs. Paths like Pre Security and Jr Penetration Tester are designed even for absolute beginners. The platform uses hints, walkthroughs, and gamification to ease learners in.
- HackTheBox: Known for its challenge-based model. Labs are often less guided, requiring you to figure things out independently. Great for self-motivated learners with some background, but intimidating for newcomers.
Verdict: Beginners often find TryHackMe’s guided paths more approachable, while HTB suits learners ready to dive into open-ended challenges.
2. Lab Variety & Realism
- TryHackMe: Offers everything from browser-based CTFs to enterprise-scale simulations. Labs align to career roles (SOC, Red Team, Web App Security). Hacktivities allow ongoing practice in fresh scenarios.
- HackTheBox: Famous for its large catalogue of “boxes” (virtual machines to hack). Many simulate real corporate environments with escalating difficulty.
Verdict: Both deliver realistic training, but TryHackMe integrates guided learning paths + challenges, while HTB leans heavily into standalone challenges.
3. Beginner & Career Paths
- TryHackMe: Career-focused learning paths like SOC Level 1 or Red Teaming guide learners directly toward job-ready skills.
- HackTheBox: Offers HTB Academy, with modules for structured learning, but many beginners still find the jump into HTB Labs steep.
Verdict: For career-changers and students, TryHackMe’s paths offer a clearer roadmap into cybersecurity jobs.
4. Pricing & Accessibility
TryHackMe: Offers an affordable monthly subscription (with discounts on annual plans) and a wide range of free starter content. Once subscribed, learners get full access to all paths and rooms — no hidden costs, no pay-per-module model. Students and career-changers especially benefit from this straightforward, budget-friendly pricing.
HackTheBox: While HTB offers free boxes, advanced content and HTB Academy learning paths are sold on a pay-as-you-go basis. Learners often need to purchase multiple modules separately, which can quickly add up. Subscriptions exist, but access to the most valuable labs often requires higher-tier purchases.
Verdict: Both platforms provide free content, but TryHackMe is significantly more affordable for consistent learning. With one low-cost subscription, beginners can access complete career paths — while HTB’s model often results in considerably higher costs for those who want structured and consistent learning.
5. Community & Support
- TryHackMe: Active Discord and community forums, supportive for beginners. Walkthroughs and hints built into labs.
- HackTheBox: Large, global community of advanced practitioners; write-ups are widely shared, though not always beginner-friendly.
Verdict: Beginners may find TryHackMe’s community and guided hints more supportive, while HTB appeals to those seeking advanced peer challenges.
Conclusion: Which Should You Choose in 2025?
Both TryHackMe and HackTheBox are excellent platforms — but your choice depends on where you are in your journey:
- If you’re a beginner: TryHackMe’s guided paths, affordability, and career-aligned labs make it the strongest starting point.
Ready to get started? Build the foundations of your Cyber Security career today.
Nick O'Grady