TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which One Should You Get?

If you’ve ever stood in a long airport security line, you’ve probably wished for a faster way to get through. That’s where TSA PreCheck and Global Entry come in—both designed to streamline the airport experience for travelers. But which one is the better option? Let’s break it down.

What is TSA PreCheck?

TSA PreCheck is a program that allows pre-approved travelers to move through airport security more quickly at participating U.S. airports. With PreCheck, you can:

Use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes (which are usually much shorter than regular lines).
Keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on.
Leave laptops and liquids in your bag.

TSA PreCheck is available at more than 200 enrollment centers across the U.S., making it easy to apply. The cost is $77.95 for a five-year membership, and once approved, you’ll see “TSA PreCheck” on your boarding pass when flying with participating airlines.

✅ Best for: Frequent domestic travelers who want a smoother security experience.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that expedites your reentry into the U.S. when returning from international travel. With Global Entry, you can:

Skip the customs line at major U.S. airports by using a self-serve kiosk.
Get TSA PreCheck benefits automatically (included with your membership).
Enjoy faster border crossings when entering the U.S. from abroad.

The cost for Global Entry is $120 for five years, just $40 more than TSA PreCheck. The downside? Global Entry enrollment is only available at specific U.S. airports, so you may need to travel for your in-person interview.

✅ Best for: Travelers who fly internationally at least once a year and want both customs and security benefits.

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Pros & Cons

Feature	TSA PreCheck	Global Entry
Cost (5 years)	$77.95	$120
Faster security screening in U.S.	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Keep shoes, belt, and light jacket on	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Skip customs lines when returning to the U.S.	❌ No	✅ Yes
Number of enrollment centers	200+ nationwide	Only at select airports
Best for	Domestic travelers	International travelers

Which One Should You Get?

If you only travel within the U.S., TSA PreCheck is a great option. But if you travel internationally, even just once a year, Global Entry is worth the extra $15—it includes TSA PreCheck and lets you breeze through customs.

However, one key drawback of Global Entry is that you must complete your in-person interview at a specific airport with a CBP enrollment center. If you don’t live near one, TSA PreCheck may be the easier choice.

Final Recommendation: If you qualify for Global Entry and can make it to an enrollment location, it’s the better deal. If not, TSA PreCheck is still a solid investment for frequent travelers.