THM (TryHackMe) and HTB (HackTheBox) are similar in offerings but different in approach.
In TryHackMe, you can expect a beginner friendly philosophy for everything they offer, from the individual “rooms” to the learning paths. There is more hand-holding and they assume you know less.
In HackTheBox, while there are beginner friendly options available in HTB Academy (most at a premium price), the CTF platform (HTB Labs) assumes you know less. If you’re a beginner you’ll likely feel like you’re being thrown into the material and left to figure it out on your own.
HTB and THM are the two most popular options for Capture The Flag (CTF) style cybersecurity learning platforms.
Should I Start With TryHackMe Or HackTheBox?
If you’re a beginner: TryHackMe. You’ll get an easier onboarding experience, simpler content geared towards beginners, and plenty of step-by-step guides online.
However, if you have experience: HackTheBox. HTB assumes you know basic IT and networking, and deeply technical content is available.
If you’re looking for structured learning for a specific job role or skill path: HackTheBox. HTB has a slight edge because the content in HTB Academy is crafted better than TryHackMe. This makes sense because TryHackMe’s learning paths are just a collection of rooms, most of which where made by volunteer contributors. HackTheBox contains official content from the company’s content development team, so the learning experience feels more consistent.
If you’re looking for a free option: TryHackMe. while HackTheBox has a generous amount of free content, you can’t beat TryHackMe. You can learn so much for free on TryhackMe, whereas you’ll find yourself feeling limited at times on HackTheBox if you’re wanting to do more than a the free CTF rooms.
If you’re preparing for the OSCP? HackTheBox. HTB leans closer to the “Try Harder” mentality that certifications like the OSCP advocate. Which is also why you’ll often see people recommend HTB over THM when preparing for the OSCP.
The machines you come across in HackTheBox are closer to the kinds of challenges you’ll find in the OSCP and comparable certificates.
If you want the best overall option? If you’re willing to pay, then HackTheBox has an edge over TryHackMe. Beginners can use the guided feature for Labs, alongside well crafted courses in Academy. In recent years, HackTheBox has released more content and features for beginners (for a price), so don’t shy away from the platform just because you’ve heard it’s “hard”.
HackTheBox Official Pricing – https://www.hackthebox.com/hacker/pricing
TryHackMe Official Pricing – https://tryhackme.com/r/pricing
Conclusion
Most beginners will want to start with TryHackMe. If you’re experienced, head to HackTheBox. If you’re still unsure which is right for you, see our comprehensive review of both platforms: HackTheBox Review & TryHackMe Review