PL-300 vs DA-100: What is the Difference?
If you are exploring a career in data analytics or business intelligence, you would have heard about two popular Microsoft certifications, PL-300: Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst and its predecessor DA-100: Analyzing Data with Microsoft Power BI. At first glance, they are very similar — and they are. But there are a few important differences and updates you should know.
In this post, we are going to detail their differences, and help you decide which is right for you.
A Synopsis of History
The first certification that Microsoft issued to verify proficiency with Power BI was the DA-100. It placed a lot of emphasis on sharing insights, modeling, data preparation, and visualization using Power BI.
What has been added to PL-300?
Although PL-300 and DA-100 cover a lot of the same ground, PL-300 better meets market demands and reflects Power BI platform changes. What’s new or different is as follows:
- Revised Exam Goals
The PL-300 test consists of:
Preparing Data (15–20%)
Modeling Data (30–35%)
Analysis and Visualization of Data (25–30%)
Asset Deployment and Maintenance (20–25%)
These are comparable to the DA-100, but they are more in line with Power Platform integration, best practices, and new Power BI features.
2. A Focus on Roles
The Power BI Data Analyst position is specifically targeted by PL-300, which emphasizes: Collecting business requirements Governance of data Enhancement of data quality Working together with stakeholders
3. Power Platform Integration
The PL-300 is part of the larger Microsoft Power Platform certification ecosystem, which also includes Power Automate, Power Apps, and Power Virtual Agents. This makes it easier to comprehend how Power BI works with whole business solutions.
Skills Measured: Side-by-Side
| Skill Area | DA-100 | PL-300 |
|---|---|---|
| Data Preparation | Yes | Yes (Updated content) |
| Data Modeling | Yes | Yes (Modern DAX practices) |
| Data Visualization | Yes | Yes |
| Deployment | Basic | Advanced (Workspaces, Pipelines) |
| Power Platform Integration | Limited | Strong emphasis |
| Certification Family | None | Part of Power Platform (PL) |
Resources and the Learning Path
If you’re getting ready for the PL-300 test, Microsoft provides official training courses such as:
Modules for Microsoft Learn
Courses taught by instructors
Practice exams
Interactive Power BI labs
Additionally, PL-300-specific Udemy/LinkedIn Learning courses, YouTube tutorials, and community resources abound.
Conclusion: Is PL-300 the Right Option for You?
Of course! The PL-300 certification is the best choice if you’re just beginning your Power BI certification path. In addition to being the current standard, it also better fits the Power Platform’s capabilities and analytical workflows of today.
Don’t worry if you already have DA-100. It is still acknowledged, and your abilities are still useful. However, it is strongly advised that you upgrade your skills to PL-300 content for future prospects and CV development.
Are You Prepared to Advance?
Gaining proficiency in PL-300 can benefit you as a data professional, independent contractor, or future Power BI specialist in the following ways:
Verify your knowledge.
Gain self-assurance when working on real-world projects
Increase your chances of landing a full-time or freelance employment.