In this Article
- Types of Breast Pumps
- Mom's Choice: Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow
- Best Hands-Free Breast Pump: The Elvie
- Best Pump for Convenience: The Willow
- Best Pump For Comfort: Lansinoh Smartpump 2.0
- Best Pump For Portability: Motif Duo
- The Best Double Electric Breast Pump: Spectra S2 PLUS
- The Best Battery Powered Breast Pump: Motif Luna
- The Best Manual Breast Pump: Evenflo Advanced Manual Breast Pump
With so many breast pumps to choose from, it can be extremely difficult to select the right pump for your breastfeeding journey. Considering your own preferences and lifestyle can help to narrow down your options. But deciding how you will need to use your pump based on your personal needs and goals (like whether you plan to be an exclusive pumper or just use it occasionally to relieve engorgement) is key to ultimately selecting the best breast pump for you.
Types of Breast Pumps
- Electric Breast Pump: Featuring a small motorized pump in order to create suction and extract breast milk, electric breast 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. These tend to be available in two varieties: single electric breast pumps and double electric breast pumps. The difference is that single electric breast pumps only allow expresion from one breast while a double electric breast pump expresses from both breast at the same time.
- Battery-Powered Breast Pump: Operating on the same princle 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 are considered totally hands-free breast pumps and are design 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 of pull down a lever in order 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 can be a simple, easy to use option.
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 found 82.9% of moms 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 to express milk faster? Do you need a little assistance fully emptying your breasts? Then a pump with a higher suction power may be helpful for establishing your milk supply.
- Portability - If you plan to consistently commute with your pump, consider the weight and the size. You may also want to consider a breast pump with a battery pack in case you don’t have access to an electrical outlet, or a wearable pump.
- 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 - 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.
- Simplicity - Forget the bells and whistles. You just want a durable pump that works. Check out breast pump reviews and warranties to find a pump that you can depend on throughout your entire breast pumping journey.
- Power Source - If being able to pump on the go matters to you, be sure to find out how long battery-powered pumps last on a single charge and whether they come with a rechargeable battery or standard batteries. Also, see if your pump has a DC power adapter to be used in a vehicle.
- Warranty - Due to the medical nature of breast pumps, they are non-returnable. However, all breast pumps will come warranted through the manufacturer. Please note that the warranty may differ for pump motor and parts.
- Connectivity - 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 in an app on your smartphone.
- Insurance Options - New moms may be interested in choosing a pump that is completely free through insurance, or you may want to consider what upgrade features or bundles are available through your insurance. Upgrade bundles may include milk storage bags or baby bottles for milk collection, tote, manual silicone breast pump, cooler bags and more.
Our Best Breast Pump Ranking System
The insight and information shared below comes from the hundreds of thousands of new and expectant moms we help to receive a pump through insurance each year.
We consistently find the most important factors they consider when choosing a breast pump include: suction strength, portability, weight, noise level, and insurance coverage.
When making our recommendations, we considered:
- Special Features
- Testimonials
- Suction Strength
- Weight
Mom's Choice
Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow
You can’t go wrong with a Medela breast pump, especially their latest Pump in Style with MaxFlow. Inspired by their renowned Symphony pump and designed for daily use, the Pump in Style is simple yet highly effective. The MaxFlow technology works to optimize milk expression while still providing exceptional comfort.
This double electric breast pump is easy-to-use with an intuitive control system that helps take the guesswork out of pumping. The compact design is perfect for fitting into most bags and it can be powered by batteries for on-the-go pumping – easily take it with you to work, while running errands, on date nights, and more! No need to be stuck to the wall while pumping multiple times a day.
Benefits for Mom:
- Designed for Daily Use
- MaxFlow Technology
- Efficient
- 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?
“I've been using this pump for 5 months now and I absolutely LOVE it! I love how quiet it is- the only time it gets loud is if you crank the suction all the way up. I love how portable it is as well! It's small size and the battery pack that it comes with makes it easy to use anywhere! I've used it while driving, washing dishes, folding laundry and even cooking. 10/10 would recommend!!” - Adubs
The Best Breast Pumps for Hands-Free Pumping
The Elvie Pump
The Elvie Pump is a silent, cordless, wearable breast pump that can be used to express breast milk anywhere, anytime. The small, modern design fits right into your nursing bra and is controlled through your phone for a seamless experience.
The pump "hubs" are lightweight and completely hassle-free. You can discreetly pump without having to change your outfit or deal with any cords. It will automatically switch from stimulation mode to expression, and stop pumping once the bottle is full.
With only five parts, the Elvie Pump is easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and assemble quickly between pumping sessions. Be sure to download the free app to monitor your milk volume in real-time, track pumping history per breast, and remotely control each pump! This pump comes with two flange sizes: 24mm and 28mm.
Benefits For Mom:
- Silent suction
- Hands-Free
- Hassle-Free
- Low Maintenance
- Responsive
- Smart Technology
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 220 mmHg
- Power Options: Rechargeable Batteries
- Warranty: 2 Year on Pump Hubs, 90 Days on Washable Components
- Weight: 7.9 Ounces Each
What Are People Saying?
“As a 2nd time mom with a toddler running around, I knew I needed more of a hands free pump option. The Elvie has been amazing! I love the flexibility of being able to pump when and where I need to. Not being tied to tubes is awesome and makes it super easy to pump while I'm playing with my older child, chasing her around, cooking, basically anything. I was hoping the extra cost was worth it and it absolutely is! I'll scream how amazing the Elvie is from the rooftops for a long time! If you are on the fence- go for it! Also it's easy to clean which is much appreciated!” - Alicia H.
“I'm a nurse who works 13 hours shifts back to back. This pump has saved my life and my milk! I've been able to pop it into my bra and go back to work and pump almost 10 ounces every 4 hours! No need to find an outlet, set up everything, and then be stuck sitting for 20 minutes to pump. I use this when I'm charting and my coworkers sitting next to me can't even hear it! The suction is perfect and comfortable. It is easy to take apart and to clean and overall it's so easy to use! Yes, it is expensive but it's totally worth it.” – Amanda W.
The Best Breast Pumps for Hands-Free Pumping Honorable Mention
Willow Go
This hands-free, cord-free breast pump is perfect for multi-tasking and on-the-go. It is the perfect wearable pump with hospital-strength suction. The Willow pump’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?
“I love these wearable pumps! They fit inside a nursing bra or tank top great. They are comfortable and so easy to clean! They allow you to get household chores done without being tied down. I love using my willow go pump for road trips or simply just pumping at work.” - Bethanie L.
The Best Pump for Convenience
Willow Pump
This all-in-one breast pump fits in your nursing bra and goes where you go. The Willow pump’s patented, no-spill technology lets you pump smarter and fully hands-free. It provides more comfort, more control.
This hands-free pump is quiet, compact, and has an in-bra design with no cords, tubes, or dangling bottles. Pump directly into self-sealing storage bags or pump and transfer from reusable containers. It can connect to the Willow App for real-time session volume, pumping history, and personalized tips.
Benefits For Mom:
- Spill-Proof
- Hands-Free
- Quiet and Discreet
- 7 Levels of Suction
- Use With Milk Storage Bags or Reusable Containers (sold separately)
- Smart Suction Technology
- Connects to Phone for Tracking
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 245 mmHg
- Power Options: Rechargeable Batteries
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Weight: 12.5 Ounces Each
What Are People Saying?
“Seriously this pump is a life-changer! Easy to use, suction is great and I love the fact that I don't have to be stuck to a wall to pump. With three kids and a full time job, this pump has made it easy to continue my breastfeeding journey! Worth every penny and you won't regret it!” - Johanna D.
The Best Breast Pumps for Convenience: Honorable Mention
Spectra S1 vs S2 Breast Pumps
The Spectra S1 Plus has the same abilities and features, plus the added convenience of a portable battery. The main difference between them is that the Spectra S1 has a rechargeable battery and the S2 does not and must be plugged into an electrical outlet. Once charged, the Spectra S1 has a battery life of 3 hours. Neither the S1 or S2 is hands-free on its own, but both can be used with a pumping bra to make pumping sessions even more convenient.
Insurance companies will only cover certain types of pumps, therefore the other difference between the Spectra S1 vs Spectra S2 is that because of the internal battery pack, the Spectra S1 Plus is considered an upgrade pump. You may still be able to use your insurance benefit towards this pump with a small upgrade fee.
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?
“As a first time mom, this pump I feel is great. Easy to use, settings pretty straight forward, not too many buttons. It's definitely quiet enough to not wake my little one. The pump looks great, love the color combination, and the size. I really enjoy the incorporated light, bright enough for me to see and not bother my little one. It's a great machine, not heavy, not bulky, just perfect. Additionally, this pump makes it easy to clean!!!! Overall great purchase!!! Definitely recommend it!!!!” - Daniela G.
The Best Breast Pump for Comfort
Lansinoh Smartpump 3.0
The Lansinoh Smartpump 3.0 is an ultra-quiet, double electric breast pump that combines comfort and functionality so that you can discreetly pump anywhere. Because of its backlit LCD screen, lightweight body, and carrying handle, this pump is especially easy to use day-to-day.
It has customizable settings, eight levels of hospital-strength suction, two-mode technology to maximize breast milk expression, and comes with a set of Lansinoh’s ComfortFit flanges that are soft and flexible for ideal suction and fit. The Smartpump 3.0 uses smart technology to connect to your phone through an app, allowing you to track your pumping schedule, baby’s growth, and more. Plus, it can also be used with batteries or a car adapter for on-the-go pumping.
Benefits For Mom:
- Designed for Mom’s Comfort
- ComfortFit Flanges Included for Ideal Fit
- Connects to the Lansinoh Baby app to track pumping sessions
- 3 Pumping Styles to Choose From
- Portable
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 280 mmHg
- Power Options: AC Adapter/Attachable Rechargeable Battery (Sold Separately)
- Warranty: 1 Year Motor, 90 Days Pump Parts
The Best Breast Pump for Comfort Honorable Mention
Spectra Synergy Gold
The Spectra Synergy Gold double electric breast pump has a unique feature that makes it more comfortable for many moms. It's the first pump of its kind that allows moms to adjustable suction settings for each side independently. This customization makes for more comfortable pumping sessions and can help get more milk production out of the breast that typically produces less breast milk. This pump uses exclusive Natural Nursing Technology, which uses vacuum patterns to closely mimic the experience of natural breastfeeding. Plus check out the new rechargeable version!
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?
“Suction is amazing, it comes with 24&28mm flanges, the machine is so quiet (I’ve had the spectra S9 & Motif luna to compare sound & machines) I absolutely cannot believe how quiet it is. The levels can be controlled per breast which is amazing, especially if you have a slacker boob. I did so much research on this pump. It’s a beautiful pump and seriously one of the best. I highly suggest picking this one.” - Madison A.
The Best Breast Pumps for Portability
Motif Medical Duo
The Motif Duo is designed for on-the-go use. Not only is it reliable, but it’s incredibly lightweight and portable. Plus, the rechargeable battery lasts two and a half hours on a single charge.
The Duo has 3 different expression modes with 10 different suction levels in order to suit your individual needs. The settings can be saved for next time to simplify your routine pumping sessions. Also, this double electric breast pump has an incredibly quiet motor for discreet pumping.
Benefits For Mom:
- Lightweight Design
- Portable and Easy to Carry
- Comfortable
- Quiet
- 10 Expression and 10 Massage Levels
Specs:
- Suction Strength: 250 mmHg
- Power Options: Rechargeable Battery, Adapter
- Warranty: 1 Year on Pump, 90 Days on Parts & Accessories
- Weight: 0.6 Pounds
What Are People Saying?
“As a stay at home mom, I'm always needing to pump while walking around the house doing other things. The DUO works great for this!! It's portable, small, and pumps great. I actually prefer the backflow prevention closed system over some others because the components physically twist and lock on, so you don't have to worry about them popping off. I love having it as an alternate option for walking around the house or for travel. It's super compact and light!!” - Emily
“I am not a person that usually writes reviews but after reading an endless amount of reviews for breast pumps, I figured I should write one to help the next person. I went with my gut and chose the Motif Duo. I was nervous to go with this portable pump but I will say I am so glad I did. I use this pump while washing dishes, doing my makeup, laundry, I’m even able to let my dog in and out of the house while pumping. It doesn't slow me down and allows me to multitask, which is not really possible with a pump you have to use while plugged in. I can do about a day's worth of pumping before I need to charge it again and I will say it is definitely powerful enough which I had been worried about!” – SK
The Best Breast Pumps for Portability Honorable Mention
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?
“This pump is amazing. Within a week my production improved significantly. I can throw it on anywhere and pump as much as I need to without standing in my bathroom. I drive a lot for work and this has saved me for sure !” - Shannon H.
“This pump has been a huge improvement for me. Being able to move around freely while pumping has significantly increased not only the number of times I can pump per day, but my freedom in activities. It is quiet and pretty discreet. I can wear it anywhere, including work and nobody notices as long as I have a jacket or sweater on over my shirt.” - Amanda T.
The Best Double Electric Breast Pump
Spectra S2 Plus
The Spectra S2 allows you to pump your way, with 12 cycle speeds of hospital-strength adjustable suction to choose from. Take advantage of the 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.
This advanced double electric breast pump has an auto timer to simplify keeping up with the length of your pumping sessions and a soothing night light that won’t wake your baby during the night. Plus, it’s ultra-quiet and has backflow protection to keep your breast milk safe from harmful bacteria. It comes with all the BPA-free pump parts you'll need like breast shields, duckbill valves, tubing and more. Conveniently pump at any time without sacrificing comfort and performance with the Spectra S2.
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?
“As a first time mom, this pump I feel is great. Easy to use, settings pretty straight forward, not too many buttons. It's definitely quiet enough to not wake my little one. The pump looks great, love the color combination, and the size. I really enjoy the incorporated light, bright enough for me to see and not bother my little one. It's a great machine, not heavy, not bulky, just perfect. Additionally, this pump makes it easy to clean!!!! Overall great purchase!!! Definitely recommend it!!!!” - Daniela G.
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?
“Absolutely loved this pump the first time around now baby number twice is due I wouldn't rely on any other pump you’re not connected to a wall and there's a night light for late pumps also works great when pumping in your car late at night used this pump for 11 months religiously and never failed me” - Markie R.
The Best Manual Breast Pump
Evenflo Advanced Manual Breast Pump
Evenflo Advanced Manual Breast Pump is lightweight and compact making it ideal for discreet milk expression and perfect for travel. The fast, short pumping motion helps stimulate milk release, which can then be transitioned to a slower, longer pumping motion. This pump is compatible with the Evenflo Advanced Milk Storage Bag Adapters and the Balance + Wide Pump Adapters, allowing you to pump directly into milk storage bags or wide bottles.
Benefits For Mom:
- Lightweight and portable
- Designed for occasional-use pumping
- Gentle on breasts
Specs:
- Pivoting pump handle
- Includes multiple flange sizes
- Compact and travel-friendly
What Are People Saying?
“I needed something that was simpler than an electric pump for beginning to wean. For the days when I just needed to relieve a little pressure this is my absolute go to! It’s easy to use, comfortable and gets the job done.” - Caroline S.
Which Breast Pump is the Best?
Aeroflow Breastpumps only offers the best, top-quality, reliable breast pumps. Choosing the best pump comes down to your individual needs and personal preferences. Consider your lifestyle and pick the breast pump that checks the most boxes on your list. If you need any assistance, our dedicated Specialists are here to help! To view our full selection of breast pumps, click here. Additionally, talking with a lactation consultant can be very helpful in identifying which pumps would best fit your individual needs.
Also note that if you go through Aeroflow Breastpumps to get your breast pump through insurance, we will automatically check your insurance eligibility for breast pump supplies and contact you to let you know if you can receive additional pump parts like breast shields, membranes and tubing, as well as maternity compression garments!
