Important. Clearpoint Advisory is not a CPA firm, so we provide SOC 2 readiness and preparation consulting only. The formal examination and report are performed by a separate, licensed, independent CPA firm.

Comparison

SOC 2 vs SOC 3: the detailed report and the public summary

The SOC 2 vs SOC 3 question is mostly about audience. A SOC 2 report is detailed and shared under confidentiality, while a SOC 3 is a short public summary of the same examination.

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Soc 2 vs soc 3: examination, detailed report and public summary

What separates SOC 2 vs SOC 3

Both come from the same kind of examination against the trust criteria. However, a SOC 2 includes the system description, control tests and results, so it is restricted. A SOC 3, by contrast, gives only the opinion and a short description, so anyone may read it.

Side by side

The table shows how each report is used.

	SOC 2	SOC 3
Detail	Controls, tests and exceptions.	Opinion and short description.
Distribution	Restricted, usually under NDA.	Public, for example on a website.
Reader	Customer security teams.	Prospects and the general public.
Replaces the other	No.	No, because buyers still want SOC 2.

SOC 2 vs SOC 3: do you need both?

Tick what applies. Several ticks suggest adding a SOC 3.

We want to publish proof on our website Many small prospects ask about security We are already planning a SOC 2 Sales would benefit from a public document Our CPA firm offers SOC 3 alongside SOC 2

Your result appears here as you tick, so you can see what is still open.

Is a SOC 3 worth adding?

It can help marketing, because you can publish it without an NDA. But enterprise buyers still ask for the SOC 2, since they want the detail. So add a SOC 3 only if public proof would help sales.

Cost of adding SOC 3

A SOC 3 is usually produced from the same examination as your SOC 2. Therefore the added cost is typically small, but ask your CPA firm, because pricing varies.

Our role in SOC 2 vs SOC 3

We prepare you for the examination behind both reports. However, only a licensed CPA firm can issue either report. Reference: AICPA guidance on SOC 2.

A simple rule of thumb works for most companies. Lead with the SOC 2 for any serious enterprise deal, because security reviewers will ask for it anyway. Then use a SOC 3 on your website or in early sales conversations, where an NDA would slow things down. As a result, prospects get early reassurance, while the detailed report stays protected for the buyers who need it. Also ask your CPA firm early, because adding a SOC 3 later can mean a separate engagement letter.

SOC 2 vs SOC 3 questions

Can a SOC 3 replace a SOC 2?

No. Enterprise buyers want the detail only a SOC 2 contains.

Is SOC 3 a separate audit?

Usually not. It is typically issued from the same examination.

Who should get SOC 2 vs SOC 3 reports?

Customers under NDA get the SOC 2, while the public can see the SOC 3.

Is a SOC 3 a certificate?

No. There is no SOC certification, only attestation reports.

Related guides

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