A quality breast pump can streamline the pumping process, making it faster, more convenient, and comfortable for those early morning or mid-workday pumping sessions.
After evaluating 31 breast pumps and testing 13 for five months, we have identified standout options that cater to various pumping styles and requirements. Our top recommendations include the double electric Spectra S1 Plus, a popular choice that has been our top pick since 2018, alongside a manual pump and more portable electric alternatives.
In recent times, there has been a surge in the introduction of “wearables” in breast pumps that allow discreet pumping while on the move. These models tend to be pricier and more divisive than traditional pumps as some users find them less effective. Among these, the Elvie Pump and the budget-friendly Willow Go stand out as the best in this category, and we have selected them in our specialized guide to wearable breast pumps.
If you are new to pumping, we provide a guide on breast pump components and insights to assist you in navigating the wide array of options.
Our top pick
This compact and quiet pump features a rechargeable battery and distinct modes for suction strength and speed, enhancing customization and usability compared to its rivals.
For those unconcerned about battery life, the Spectra S2 Plus offers similar performance minus the rechargeable battery.
After monitoring discussions in online parent communities for six years, it is evident that a vast majority of individuals who have used double electric pumps from various brands prefer Spectra’s pump over competitors. Through our testing, the Spectra S1 Plus stood out for its efficient milk extraction, quiet operation, and ease of use compared to other leading double electric pumps. With distinct modes for suction strength and speed, it offers more personalization than its rivals. The plug-in Spectra S2 Plus performs equally well.
Upgrade pick
This sleek and portable pump offers independent suction control for each side, in addition to the power and ease of the top pick.
The Spectra SG Portable provides the same level of performance and usability as our top choice but with the added benefit of dual motors for independent suction control on each side. Weighing only 1.5 pounds, it is half the weight of our top pick (3.3 pounds for the Spectra S1 Plus), making it considerably more compact and portable. Its white and gold color scheme lends a sophisticated touch compared to the baby blue and pink of the S1 Plus and S2 Plus. However, this model comes at nearly double the cost, offering specific advantages at a premium price.
Also great
This compact pump is easy to maneuver and efficiently extracts milk once you adapt to its unique expression cycle.
The BabyBuddha Portable Breast Pump’s robust and efficient suction has earned it a loyal following among exclusive pumpers. Unlike our other picks, the BabyBuddha pump features a longer, more intense pull pattern in its expression mode, which may be intense for some users and require an adjustment period. While more portable than our other recommendations in this guide, the 1-pound BabyBuddha is not a fully wearable pump as it necessitates a pumping bra to hold its traditionally shaped flanges in place, with the control unit and tubing hanging from the neck via a lanyard. Refer to our wearable breast pump guide for true wearable options.
Our top pick
Featuring a swiveling handle, the Medela Harmony offers better grip and squeeze control compared to other manual pumps.
The Medela Harmony performs on par with other manual pumps in terms of milk extraction efficiency and sometimes even outperforms them. It stands out as the only manual pump with a swiveling handle, making it more comfortable for longer or frequent pumping sessions, allowing you to utilize different hand positions as needed. It is widely available, with readily accessible replacement parts and accessories.
Also great
While nursing or pumping on one breast, this silicone vessel collects letdown from the opposite breast, preventing milk wastage.
When suction on one breast—be it from a nursing baby or a pump—triggers milk letdown from the other breast, the Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump adeptly captures this milk. This simple and lightweight device, shaped like a sock, operates via suction. By compressing the bell-shaped collection vessel, positioning the shield over the nipple, and releasing the base, the Haakaa device remains in place hands-free for many users. The milk accumulates in the bell section below, ready to be transferred to another container effortlessly.
