In this Article
- Types of Breast Pumps
- Mom's Choice: Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow
- Best Hands-Free Breast Pump: Willow Go
- Best Pump For Comfort: Philips Avent Corded Breast Pump
- Best Pump For Portability: Elvie Stride
- The Best Double Electric Breast Pump: Spectra S2 PLUS
- The Best Battery Powered Breast Pump: Motif Luna with Battery
- The Best Breast Pump for Adaptability : Motif Duo
From manual pumps to electric and battery-powered pumps, it can be extremely difficult to select the correct type of pump for your breastfeeding journey. Narrow down your options by looking at your own preferences and lifestyle.
To make a better selection, consult a lactation consultant (ibclc) and consider your needs and breastfeeding goals. For example, do you plan to be an exclusive pumper or just use a pump to occasionally relieve engorged breasts?
Additionally, understanding the different types of breast pumps and their features will provide helpful insight to inform your breast pump comparisons. Learn more about the different types of breast pump options below.
- Electric Breast Pump: Featuring a small, motorized pump to create suction and extract breast milk, electric pumps are characterized by the fact that they need to be plugged into a wall outlet. While this doesn't always allow the user to be mobile, electric breast pumps do tend to offer more suction power than other pumps. Electric options are available in two varieties: single electric breast pumps and double electric breast pumps. The difference is that single electric breast pumps only allow expression from one breast, while a double electric pump expresses from both breasts simultaneously.
- Battery-Powered Breast Pump: Operating on the same principle as a general electric breast pump, battery-powered breast pumps are typically more portable and offer the user more ease of mobility. As such, they're popular options for those who need to pump while at work or anywhere on the go. Some models, like the Motif Aura Hands-Free Double Electric Breast Pump and the Willow Go Wearable Double Electric Breast Pump, are considered totally hands-free and are designed to fit directly into your pumping bra, allowing you to breast pump virtually anywhere while retaining the use of your hands and remaining totally mobile.
- Manual Breast Pump: Traditionally, a manual breast pump is any pump that requires the user to manually squeeze or pull down a lever to create the required suction to extract breast milk. While generally not including as many features and suction benefits as other pumps, a manual breast pump, like the Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump, is a simple device that's easy to use.
Types of Breast Pumps
How Do I Choose a Breast Pump?
When deciding on which breast pump is best for you, we recommend considering these important key features:
- Suction Strength - We surveyed Aeroflow moms, and 82.9% said suction strength was very important when choosing a breast pump. Do you need help kick-starting your let-down reflex to stimulate milk flow? Do you want a more efficient milk expression? Do you need a little assistance fully emptying your breasts? If so, a pump with higher suction power may help establish your milk supply.
- Portability - If you plan to consistently commute with your pump, consider its weight, size, and whether or not it will require additional supplies. And if being able to pump on the go matters to you, look into wearable breast pumps or battery-powered pumps, which are helpful when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. Be sure to find out how long battery-powered pumps last on a single charge and whether they come with rechargeable or standard batteries. Also, see if your pump has a DC power adapter, which can be used in a vehicle.
- Customization - A breast pump with adjustable suction strength and speed settings will allow you to customize your pumping experience. The more suction and cycle levels a breast pump offers, the closer the pump can mimic your baby’s feeding style.
- Discretion and Hands-free - Do you want to pump on the down-low? Consider choosing a pump with a quiet motor that fits easily into your purse or pumping bra. Do you want a hands-free breast pump? Consider the Elvie Stride Double Electric Breast Pump or the Lansinoh Wearable Breast Pump, as well as a pumping bra.
- Warranty, Replacement, and Extra Parts - All breast pumps will come warranted through the manufacturer. Please note that the warranty may differ for pump motors and parts. Monitor your pump and accessories to know when to order extra parts or replacements.
- App Tracking - Do you want to track and monitor each ounce you pump? Then, consider breast pumps with advanced features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, to track your pumping schedule via an app on your smartphone.
Our Best Breast Pump Ranking System
Each year, we help hundreds of thousands of new and expectant moms to receive a pump through insurance. Their insight and information is shared below and combined with our own research to determine the best breast pumps in each category.
We consistently find the most important factors Aeroflow moms consider when choosing a breast pump include suction strength, portability, weight, reviews, and ratings.
When making our recommendations, we considered:
- Special Features
- Reviews
- Suction Strength
- Weight
Find our curated list of recommended breast pumps below.
Mom's Choice
Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow
Medela breast pump are always a popular choice for breastfeeding moms. The latest Pump in Style with MaxFlow is simple yet highly effective and designed for daily use. This double electric breast pump is easy to use and has an intuitive control system that helps take the guesswork out of pumping. The MaxFlow breast pump technology optimizes milk expression while providing exceptional comfort.
An ideal option for moms on the go, this pump has a compact design that can fit into most bags and can also be powered by batteries, meaning you don’t have to rely on electrical outlets when out and about.
Benefits for Mom:
- Designed for Daily Use
- MaxFlow Breast Pump Technology
- Efficient Pump
- Intuitive Control
- Portable
Specs:
- Suction Strength: up to 295 mmHg
- Power Options: AA Batteries, Adapter
- Warranty: 1 Year on Pump, 90 Days on Parts & Accessories
- Weight: 1 Pound
What Are People Saying?
“Highly recommend. Love this pump! It's easy to assemble. I get more milk with this pump than my portables. It has multiple settings for your comfort. And I can pump in half the time it takes my portables to pump. The shape of the pump fits perfectly in my diaper bag! It puts my mind at ease knowing I have a great pump.” — Samantha M.
The Best Breast Pumps for Hands-Free Pumping
Willow Go
This hands-free, cord-free breast pump is perfect for multitasking moms on the go. It’s the perfect wearable pump with hospital-strength suction, and the Willow Go's no-spill technology lets you pump smarter and fully hands-free. It’s small, mighty, and mobile.
Benefits For Mom:
- Spill-Proof
- Hands-Free
- Ultra Quiet and Discreet
- Easy-to-Measure Collection
- Eco-Friendly Pumping: Comes with (2) Five-Ounce Reusable Containers
- Two Flange Sizes Included for Convenience and Comfort
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 280 mmHg
- Power Options: Internal Rechargeable Batteries
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Weight: 12.5 Ounces Each
What Are People Saying?
“Breastfeeding journey looks positive. I was very skeptical about the wearable pump, but let me tell you, it’s been amazing. So far my journey in breastfeeding has been wonderful. I got so much relief while still doing the things I needed to do around the house. I can honestly say I am very happy with my pump.” — Loni G.
The Best Breast Pumps for Hands-Free Pumping Honorable Mention
Lansinoh Discreet Duo Wearable Double Electric Breast Pump
Looking for more freedom while pumping? The Lansinoh Discreet Duo is your solution. Its lightweight, portable design without cords or tubes to tie you down allows you to slip the pump into your bra for a hands-free, convenient pumping session. Quiet and discreet, this pump tracks your pumping times and automatically stops after 20 minutes.
While small, it’s also mighty, powered by hospital-strength suction to help maximize your breast milk expression. The closed-system design prevents milk from entering the tubing, and customization options make for enhanced pumping sessions with nine adjustable suction levels and four pumping modes.
Benefits For Mom:
- Lightweight and Portable
- Hands-Free
- Quiet and Discreet
- 9 Levels of Suction
- No Cords or Tubes
- Auto Stops After 20 Minutes of Pumping
- Closed-System Pump
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 260 mmHg
- Power Options: AC Adapter, Internal Rechargeable Battery
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Weight: 12.5 Ounces Each
The Best Breast Pump for Comfort
Philips Avent Double Electric Breast Pump Advanced, Corded Use
The Philips Avent Double Electric Breast Pump Advanced, Corded Use uses Natural Motion Technology to provide a comfortable fit that mimics baby’s unique combination of suckling and massage. The powerful combination of suction and nipple stimulation also allows for quick letdown and milk flow.
With eight stimulation levels, 16 expression levels, a quiet motor, and a slimline design, this pump provides a personalized and discreet pumping experience. This comfortable breast pump has soft silicone cushions that allow for further customization, gently adapting to the size and shape of the nipple, while the Natural Motion Technology keeps milk flow at an optimum.
Benefits For Mom:
- Designed for Mom’s Comfort
- Natural Motion Technology for Quick Milk Flow
- Quiet Motor with Slimline Design
- 8 Stimulation Levels, 16 Expression Levels
- Soft and Adaptive Cushion for Gentle Stimulation
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 270 mmHg
- Power Options: Micro-USB Adapter (corded use)
- Warranty: 2 Years (Full)
What Are People Saying?
“Love it!! I chose this pump for my 4th baby as it was fully covered by my insurance and I already had Phillips Avent bottles and loved the idea of minimizing dishes. So far, it's awesome! It's much quieter than my previous Medela pumps (Medela Advanced/Pump in Style) and the silicone is so much more comfortable and adaptable than one-size plastic (Medela & Freemie brands...I'm 36B bra size). The settings are easy to use and effective. It's as easy to clean as my other pumps so I'm very happy with this product!!!” — MomOf4
The Best Breast Pump for Comfort Honorable Mention
Spectra Synergy Gold
The Spectra Synergy Gold Double Electric Breast Pump is the first pump to provide moms with adjustable suction settings for each breast. This level of customization enhances mom’s pumping experience and can help improve optimal milk production from the breast that typically produces less breast milk.
This pump takes comfort one step further with its exclusive Natural Nursing Technology, which uses vacuum patterns to closely mimic the experience of natural breastfeeding. Moms can now shop for the new, rechargeable version for added convenience and portability.
Benefits For Mom:
- Independent Suction Settings for Each Side
- Natural Nursing Technology
- LCD Touch Screen with Timer Control and Mute Mode
- Ultra-Quiet
- Powerful Suction for Optimal Performance
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 270 mmHg
- Power Options: Adapter
- Warranty: 2 Years on Pump, 90 Days on Parts
- Weight: 4.2 Pounds
What Are People Saying?
“So glad I splurged! I have 2 other Spectra pumps from previous pregnancies that have been so faithful I considered not getting a pump this time. After reading about the Spectra Synergy Gold in a few different pumping and moms groups on social media, I decided I wanted to try it for myself. This pump empties me in half the time! I think it has really helped me boost my supply this time around which means a lot less stress about my supply. I have been suggesting this pump everywhere. So worth it!” — Stefanie C.
The Best Breast Pumps for Portability
Elvie Stride
The Elvie Stride is an ultra-quiet, hands-free breast pump that sits under your clothing, offering more mobility and discretion. It collects breast milk in-bra, meaning your hands and body are free to move around.
The Stride was created with noise-reduction technology and is ultra-quiet, even with hospital strength suction. It has 2 modes as well as 20 intensity settings so you can customize your pumping experience to your body’s needs. It’s equipped with a personalization feature that can save user preferences. You can also track pumping sessions and control your pump remotely with the Pump with Elvie app. Check out the newest Stride Plus designed for mamas on the move!
Benefits For Mom:
- Hands-free
- Ultra-quiet
- Connect to App for Full Control of Pump Remotely
- 20 Intensity Modes
- Hospital Strength
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 270 mmHg
- Power Options: Internal Rechargeable Battery
- Warranty: 2 Years on Hub (Pump), 90 Days on Components
- Weight: 1.2 Pounds
What Are People Saying?
“I’m a second-time mom and this product gives me the ability to move around with my toddler as well as pump for my baby. The suction is excellent and the cleaning is very easy. I wish I had got this the first time. My ability to pump at regular intervals and simultaneously perform day-to-day tasks has maintained my milk supply. I definitely recommend this to moms.” — Isha M.
The Best Breast Pumps for Portability Honorable Mention
Baby Buddha Portable Double Electric Breast Pump
The Baby Buddha Portable breast pump is a multitasking mom’s solution to making every session easy, comfortable, and convenient. This pump has a quiet motor, 15 different mode settings, and an extra soft cushion to prevent nipple soreness. Plus, the breast pump suction patterns in the stimulation mode mimic those of a breastfeeding baby to help increase milk supply and trigger letdowns. The lightweight and compact design makes it one of the smallest breast pumps on the market, meaning you can pump anywhere discreetly.
Benefits For Mom:
- Ultra Quiet Motor
- Lightweight and Compact Design
- 6 Levels of Stimulation Modes, 9 Levels of Expression Modes
- Easy to Use
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 320 mmHg
- Power Options: AC Adapter, Internal Rechargeable Battery
- Warranty: 2-Year Limited
- Weight: 12.8 ouncesWhat Are People Saying?
What Are People Saying?
“I love this pump. It cut down my pumping time and it’s been a lifesaver to be hands free while pumping. I highly recommend this to any Mama!” - Lauren W.
The Best Double Electric Breast Pump
Spectra S2 Plus
Weighing just three pounds and equipped with 12 cycle speeds of hospital-strength adjustable suction, The Spectra S2 maximizes comfort and convenience. This pump has a relaxing massage mode to find a rhythm that mimics the natural suckling pattern of your baby, along with letdown and expression modes to help new moms maintain their milk supply.
The Spectra S2 is an ultra-quiet pump and has a soothing night light, so it won’t disturb your baby during the night. Plus, it has an auto timer and backflow protection to keep your breast milk safe from harmful bacteria. It also comes with all the BPA-free pump parts you'll need, including breast shields, duckbill valves, tubing, and more.
Benefits For Mom:
- Ultra Quiet Motor
- Efficient
- Customizable Levels of Suction
- Easy to Use
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 270 mmHg
- Power Options: Adapter
- Warranty: 2 Years on Pump, 90 Days on Parts & Accessories
- Weight: 4 Pounds
What Are People Saying?
“This pump has changed my entire experience. I was so close to switching over to formula because the pump I had before did nothing for me & I have to head back to work soon. I’m 2 1/2 months in now and I don’t see our journey ending anytime soon, solely because I’m able to provide her with breast milk now while I work full-time. This pump is a dream.” — Alisha S.
The Best Battery Powered Breast Pump
Motif Luna with Battery
Motif Luna with Battery makes your pumping journey even easier with a sleek and lightweight design. It is powerful, rechargeable, and portable that is designed to provide more milk in less time! The battery lasts 2+ hours between charges and only takes 2.5 hours to recharge. It’s easy to use and light weight making it the perfect pump for mobility!
Benefits For Mom:
- Quiet Motor
- Built In LED Night Light
- Easy to Use
- Expression or Massage Mode
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 280 mmHg
- Power Options: AC adapter/Internal Rechargeable Battery
- Warranty: 2 Years on Pump, 90 Days on Parts & Accessories
- Weight: 2 Pounds
What Are People Saying?
“The best pump! I used this pump for my second and am now about to use it again for my third. I was an exclusively BF mom for 1+ years and this pump was the ultimate sidekick as a working mom. The long-lasting battery life is excellent. I was also able to get so much milk in such a short amount of time.” — Azieza W.
The Best Breast Pump for Adaptability
Motif Duo Double Electric Breast Pump
Weighing less than a pound, the Motif Duo breast pump is a portable option that can be used for single or double pumping. Virtually silent and able to hold over two and a half hours of charge, the Duo’s mobility enhances convenience for any mom.
There are 10 suction levels to choose from, as well as three expression modes. The Duo also has a memory feature to save your preferred setting and will auto-shut off after 30 minutes. Whether going to work, taking a walk, or setting up for your regular pumping session from home, take advantage of the Motif Duo’s lightweight, portable design to pump with ease.
Benefits For Mom:
- Quiet Motor
- Backlit LCD Screen
- Auto-Shut Off After 30 Minutes
- 10 Expression Modes and 10 Massage Levels
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 250 mmHg
- Power Options: AC Adapter/Internal Rechargeable Battery (2.5 Hour Duration)
- Warranty: 2 Years on Motor, 90 Days on Pump Parts
- Weight: Less Than 1 Pound
What Are People Saying?
“I love this breast pump but I wish it was available to me through my insurance sooner. I would have loved to use this the entire time I have been breastfeeding my son. So far it works great; I love that it is hands-free. I get a lot more done than sitting there and having to hold the bottles. It is very light and it holds the perfect amount of milk. Great pump—I will use this again on my next child as well.” — Kimberly S.
Which Breast Pump is the Best?
Aeroflow Breastpumps is committed to providing only the best, highest-quality, and most reliable breast pumps. While choosing the best pump ultimately depends on your individual needs and personal preferences, we’re here to help you navigate the different products and accessories that can enhance your pumping experience.
Do you need a lightweight, portable pump? Something quiet with a few accessories? A rechargeable option? Make a list of features that match your lifestyle and needs, then look for corresponding pumps. If you need any assistance, our dedicated specialists are here to help! To view our full selection of breast pumps, click here. Talking with a lactation consultant can also be very helpful in identifying which pumps will best fit your individual needs.
Additionally, if you purchase your breast pump through insurance, Aeroflow Breastpumps will automatically check your insurance eligibility for breast pump supplies and contact you to let you know if you can receive additional pump parts, such as breast shields, membranes and tubing, as well as compression garments!
Do you have any questions? We can help!
