Medela versus Spectra: A Breast Pump Review

I’ve heard a lot of moms ask the question:

“Which breast pump should I buy?”.

Honestly, there’s no right or wrong answer. It’s a decision that’s up to you, your wallet, and/or your insurance company! I was lucky enough to have been gifted both pumps, Medela Pump in style Advance and Spectra S2, by friends, family, and my insurance company. Because of the frequently asked question regarding while breast pump should be purchased, I’ve decided to do a little breast pump review on both sharing my opinions, the pros/cons, and the features. This post is not sponsored,has affiliate links, and 100 percent my own opinions!

Medela Pump In Style Advanced

1: All of the individually pieces of the Medela Pump
2: The Medela PISA pump (received through insurance)
3: Medela PISA pump parts, bottle included

Pros:

• Very popular: you can find this pump BASICALLY anywhere! I know that several hospitals in my area have them in the hospital. You can also buy them from my retailers.
• Because you can buy the pump from almost anywhere, you can also buy most of it’s parts in stores as well. Keyword: “most”. If you need very specific specialty parts, you may have to order them online.
• Comes in a backpack, tote bag, or a very simple little black box.
• The black box pump is very small and fits comfortably in most bags.
• Very simple to use
• The plastic parts are BPA free!
• SOME, not all, other bottles can attach to the pump

Cons:

• Pricey
• Has more parts to keep up with. Specifically, the membranes (the little white pieces). They can get lost super easy.

Features:

• Double Electric: basically meaning you can pump both breasts at once and use the electricity to do the work for you!
• Quiet motor
• 4.2 pounds, 9 inches by 7 inches by 7 inches (details per Medela website)

My Opinions and Experience:

• I’ve used this pump for about 3 years. I only pumped while I was working part time but never had any issues with this pump.
• I was able to use Dr. Brown bottles with this pump but not any other brand.
• Medela is popular and what was always available. That’s the main reason I used it. Overall, I’d suggest this pump because it doesn’t really have many cons.

Spectra S2

1: Spectra S2 Parts, Bottle Included
2: Spectra S2 Pump in Hand
3: Spectra S2 Pump Parts

Pros:

• It’s pink. I’m not going to lie, it’s so cute.
• it has a glow light button on it. I’ve had to pump in the dark a few times so it was super helpful to have a pump with a light.
• It has a timer on it! MAJOR PRO! I could easily use my phone but I get distracted with apps on my phone. It’s nice to look down and see that.
• It has a little holder for your bottles.
• It has a handle to hold it
• Affordable: see Amazon price [without insurance] (here).

Cons:

• It’s kind of bulky and has an awkward shape.
• Fits in a bag but not as well as the Medela box does.

Features:

• The timer and glow light button are major features.
• Double, electric breast pump
• 2.5 pounds and 7 inches by 7 inches in size (details per Spectra website)
• Super quiet motor

My Opinions and Experience:

• I just started using the Spectra S2 with Baby 2. I haven’t had any complaints and have been super impressed with it’s features. Aside from it’s awkward shape, no issues.

OVERALL

Like I said before, there is no right or wrong answer to the question, “What breast pump should I buy?” You have to go with whatever works best for you and your budget. These two are great. I would recommend them to anyone BUT please know that there are several breast pumps on the market! There are stronger ones, more portable ones, cheaper ones. It really just depends on YOU to make your decision. I eventually hope to test out different pumps and have an ultimate list made but for now, I hope you enjoy the review of these two extremely popular breast pumps.

You can buy your own through these Amazon links:

Medela Pump in Style Advanced Tote Bag

Medela Pump in Style Advanced Backpack

Spectra S2 PumpIf you have either of these breast pumps, I’d love it if you’d comment below and let me know your thoughts on either of the pumps!  Thanks 🙂