
Not the momcozy s12's. First set, the motor died within 2 weeks, got a replacement set, those leaked everytime no matter what. If you have a bigger set of boobies, the momcozys are not great. Heard good things about the Baby Buddhas. Exclusively pumped for 18 months for my twins and solely used my Spectra s1 (the blue one) LOVE HER, she is a work horse and does not need to be plugged in, the battery lasts forever.
"LOVE HER, she is a work horse." EP 18 months for twins — extreme use case. Battery lasts forever. Sole pump for the entire journey.
Spectra S1. Hands down. Insurance covered 90% of it. I paid less for it than I pay for takeout for my husband and I. It is not portable in the sense that it is two small pumps that go into your bra, but it is chargeable so you can pump without needing to be next to an outlet. "Medical Grade" pumps (such as the Spectra S1 or Medela Symphony and Sonata) are the top standard for those who wish to exclusively pump, or use it more than a few times a day! The women on the exclusively pumping subredd
"Hands down." Insurance covered 90%. Describes as medical grade, chargeable. Specific about cost (less than takeout) and EP community consensus.
I have the Spectra S1 plus and love it! It's the one that can run on battery power. I pump 7 times a day (30min sessions) and the battery only ever gets down to two bars. I charge it every night while I'm asleep. I have a couple of other pumps to use while doing things around the house or going out. First is the Elvie double electric and I don't really like it. Suction is weak, my output is terrible with it and it doesn't hold a charge for more than two 30min sessions. Second is the Pumpables Ge
Extensive daily use: 7 pumps/day, 30-min sessions. Battery barely drops to 2 bars. Loves it. Compared to Elvie (weak) and PGA (also great but for different use).
Spectra S1 with in bra adapters imstead of then standard bottle flanges was amazing for me (I exclusively pumped for 10 months) it was mostly mobile with top grade suction
"Amazing." EP for 10 months. Used in-bra adapters for mobility. Top grade suction. Specific about accessory hack.
EP x 10 months here. It's so hard to predict how your breastfeeding will go. To start I 100% recommend spectra s1, it's a powerhouse and I loved the nightlight and rechargeable battery in the early days. If you end up needing to pump a lot, or exclusively pump, you will most likely need a "primary pump" like the spectra to best remove milk and thus maintain your supply. After you have a better idea of how breast-feeding is going, then I would highly recommend considering adding a wearable as you
Exclusively pumped for 10 months. Calls it a "powerhouse", loves the nightlight and rechargeable battery. 100% recommends for establishing supply.
Spectra s1. Hands down the best. If anything, buy a wearable out of pocket and you can use your FSA for it. They're typically cheaper than buying the Spectra out of pocket. Hands free can affect supply depending so it's not always the best or works well for everyone.
Unequivocal recommendation ("Hands down the best"), notes wearables can affect supply. Clearly owns/used it based on specific advice about FSA and purchasing strategy.
I exclusively pumped for 6 months. A hand held manual pump was essential for early on engorgement to relieve pressure before i could get plugged in. I kept one by my bed at all times. Spectra S1 was my main girl, my work horse. Insurance covered her in full. I used her on average 6x a day for 6 months. I all invested in wearables. I received momcozy s12's at my baby shower and truly hated them. They hurt, were hard to assemble, and didn't really work. I then bought eufy s1 pros for when i we
"My main girl, my work horse." EP 6 months, 6x/day. Insurance covered in full. Compared to Momcozy S12 (hated) and Eufy (for wearable). Extremely detailed routine.
Nothing compares to a Spectra (I had S2) for your primary pump. It's the closest to "hospital grade" in my opinion. Empties you so well which is best for your supply!!
"Nothing compares." Had S2, considers it closest to hospital grade. Specific about emptying efficiency and supply impact.
I'm 8mo in, ftm, and I have made pumping my bitch lol. I started with just the Spectra S1 (which was mostly covered by my insurance) for all the above reasons people have mentioned. It is the super reliable. Make sure to meet with the hospital lactation specialist if you can so they can help size you right away. Then you can Amazon your correct flange sizes from the hospital. I also used the [Lactation Network](https://lactationnetwork.com) to check to see if my insurance covered in-home visit
8 months of successful use. "Super reliable." Insurance covered. Detailed about LC help, flange sizing, and pumping routine. Confident endorsement.
I also have the Spectra S1 and love it. I'll add that I recently started using LacTeck flanges with Maymom adapters. https://www.lacteck.com/collections/store/products/4th-gen-babymotion-flange-one-pair https://www.amazon.com/Maymom-Widemouth-Connector-Compatible-PersonalFit/dp/B07WD385MM I had been using Maymom hard plastic flanges in my proper size with no pain or discomfort. But my output practically doubled once I started using the LacTeck flanges.
"Love it." Output doubled with LacTeck flanges. Specific about accessories and compatibility. Shows the Spectra ecosystem advantage.
I exclusively pumped for my first and the blue spectra worked much better for me even than the giant medela that we rented from the hospital. Getting lacteck flanges was a game changer as far a comfort and output. You do need adapters but it was night and day for me. I have ordered 8 sets in anticipation of our twins arrival! 😬
EP with blue Spectra, "worked much better" than hospital-grade Medela rental. Ordered 8 sets of flanges for twins. Specific about LacTeck accessories.
I loved my spectra. I haven't used any other pump but I have no complaints with ease of use, noise level, or overall efficiency. I pumped for 4 months and used it 4-5 times a day before switching off to exclusively breastfeeding. I had a few thousands ounces of frozen milk before I quit pumping. I definitely buy it again
"Loved it." 4 months of daily use (4-5x/day), no complaints on ease/noise/efficiency. Built thousands of ounces of frozen stash. Would buy again.
I would check to see if/what your insurance would cover. Many cover breast pumps and supplies. You may need to go through a DME (like Aeroflow) but you should be able to check eligibility still. If not, call your insurance directly and find out before baby comes. That being said, one of the most recommended pumps is the Spectra S1. (I have one and I love it.) It's a workhorse. Many have used it past the 1500 hours the motor is rated for. It's a good quality double electric breast pump. You can
"I have one and I love it. It's a workhorse." Notes motor rated for 1500 hours with many exceeding it. Specific about Aeroflow ordering and parts program.
Spectra S1! I loved mine. Portable, easily washed, and strong. S2 is a downgrade get the S1.
"I loved mine" with three specific positives: portable, easily washed, strong suction. Also advises S1 over S2.
The Spectra for sure (I have the blue one). I have EBF both my older kids for a year plus and returned to work at 12 weeks with both. It's a workhorse and I'll be dusting it off soon as my third maternity leave comes to an end in a few weeks!
Used for 2 kids (year+ each), returning to work at 12 weeks. "Workhorse." Reusing for third baby. Remarkable longevity across multiple children.
Another voice in the chorus of support for the spectra S2 or S1. I've had my spectra for 8 years and just retired her after reaching age 1 with my last baby. I had to replace the power cord once, but otherwise she never lost suction and never gave up. Spectra is the Toyota Camry of pumps: not super flashy, but a simple reliable workhorse. And this is coming from someone who \*hated\* pumping.
8 years of use, never lost suction, only replaced power cord once. "Toyota Camry of pumps" — reliable workhorse analogy. Remarkable longevity endorsement.
Spectra S2 gets my vote out of these. You can adjust both the vacuum and speed, so you should be able to find a setting you respond best to. Honestly, the upgrade fee is worth it for the battery S1. I thought I was only going to pump at work where I wouldn't need to worry about plug availability. However, nursing did not work out, no matter what I tried. I exclusively pumped for 13 months and am so glad I spent the $75 fee for the S1.
EP for 13 months. "So glad" about the S1 upgrade ($75). Specific about adjustable vacuum+speed settings. Would recommend battery version.
You need a hospital grade for regular use. A handsfree cup system will not empty you. I loved the spectra. Spring for the one with a battery in it. Worth not being tied to a wall. Get a pumping bra. And join a pumping group. They are gold for information! Like you HAVE to pump around the clock every two to three hours just like a newborn would to establish your milk supply. A five hour sleep window doesn't happen until month two or three. Pumping schedules that include that are for older babies
"Loved the spectra." Specific advice: get battery version, get pumping bra. Detailed pumping schedule knowledge shows extensive experience.
The portable/chargeable Spectra is the one I liked. It was nice not to be hooked to the wall, it worked really well and was easy to clean. I had a Medela and absolutely hated it, I felt like the pumping took so much longer and it wasnt user friendly. I ended up borrowing my sister's Spectra and I didn't realize pumping could be so quick and relatively painless.
Hated Medela (slow, not user friendly). Borrowed sister's Spectra and "didn't realize pumping could be so quick and relatively painless." Dramatic positive comparison.
I love my Spectra v2 (the blue portable one, not the pink that has to be plugged into the wall). I also have the Medela Harmony hand pump, which is great for when I'm traveling, my last pump of the night, or when I just want to get a quick pump out. I also just ordered the Momcozy M5, but it hasn't arrived yet, so I can't speak to the quality.
"I love my Spectra v2" — distinguishes blue portable from pink plug-in. Uses as primary with Medela Harmony as travel backup.
Strongly recommend a spectra - it's basically gold standard. I have a spectra and the zomee fit wearable, and I'm pretty sure trying to use the zomees gave me mastitis because they're not strong enough to really empty. Vs the spectra does an incredible job and is easy to use, you just have to get used to sitting in one place for a while. And be sure to get a pumping bra so you can use your hands at least. I just ordered the eufy S1 pro wearables so we'll see if those are any better than the zome
"Gold standard...does an incredible job." Zomee gave mastitis from incomplete emptying; Spectra empties fully. Specific health consequence comparison.
I used the Spectra and bought a cord that connects to the car and a pumping bra. I draped a sheet over me and pumped on my commutes. The bra also held the suckers in place when I sat at my desk, so I could use it hands free. Just buy a pumping bra. And get a Spectra because it's the best. Edited to add— I couldn't walk around hands free, but I was able to get it situated so I could my hands while sitting.
"Get a Spectra because it's the best." Used on commute with car adapter. Hands-free at desk with pumping bra. Creative portability solutions.
I highly recommend the Spectra S1 (blue one). If you don't want to pay an upcharge (which many insurances do charge for this option), then I'd recommend the Spectra S2 (pink one). The S1 has an internal battery. Super worth it. I have both. I use the S1 during the day since it's more mobile friendly and the S2 at night since I'm not going anywhere and it has to be plugged in. Other solid options are Baby Buddha 2.0. It's strong but great for use with mobile/hands free cups. In my experience it
Owns both S1 and S2. Uses S1 during day (mobility), S2 at night. "Super worth it" for the battery upgrade. Detailed dual-pump strategy.
Hard to beat the Spectra S1. I have acquired some Medela pumps as well, including the wearable freestyle and get more with the Spectra. When you're trying to match what baby takes milk wise at daycare, you want a reliable pump like the spectra. Also, make sure to get a nipple sizing tool and measure yourself after birth since most of the flanges are way too large for comfort. This makes a huge difference.
"Hard to beat." Gets more output than Medela Freestyle. Specific about flange sizing importance. Reliable for matching daycare intake.
Spectra!! If you have the option I was able to pay $25 and upgrade to the blue spectra which was awesome because it doesn't have to be plugged into the wall
Paid $25 upgrade for battery model. "Awesome" because of wall-free pumping. Specific about cost and key benefit.
I used the medela symphony in the hospital and went right to my spectra when I got home. I highly prefer my spectra, though I am using medela flanges and tubing with mine (per the nurses recommendation). My spectra seems to empty me more. I did just order a wearable set from Amazon that I'm excited about too!!
"Highly prefer my spectra" over hospital Symphony. Empties her more. Uses Medela parts with Spectra showing compatibility. Direct comparison.
I like my Spectra. I made the mistake of getting a wearable first and then my lactation consultant encouraged me get a spectra. Wearables aren't nearly as powerful, especially when you're trying to increase your supply. I've only used the wearable twice now when I was on the go for work and it was so disappointing. I have extra duckbills and parts to swap out if needed but haven't done that yet at and a few months in it's still going as strong as day 1.
LC recommended over wearable. Still going strong after months with no part replacements needed. Specific about supply benefits vs wearable disappointment.
From my 2 pregnancies here are the following pumps I've used: Spectra S1 (Blue), Spectra S2 (Pink), Medela Symphony, Baby Buddha 1.0, Eufy S1 Pro, and Medela manual. I used the Medela Symphony while in the hospital and found it really easy to use and effective. For my first pregnancy I used the Spectra S2 and Baby Buddha for most of my pumping. For my second, my insurance covered the S1 so I added that one and the Eufy S1s. I love all of these pumps and fit my various needs. My S2 lives at wo
Used S1 and S2 across 2 pregnancies. S2 lives at work, S1 for home. Loves all her pumps but Spectra is the foundation of her setup. Extensive multi-pump experience.
I got the spectra S1 and the Momcozy M5 wearables and love both. If you can only get one I'd recommend the Spectra S1 or S2 since it has better suction and more modes but the wearables are a nice option to have when out and about or if you travel a lot. As a former NICU parent who had an hour commute twice a day to see my baby the wearables were a godsend for travel and I used them more than the spectra while my baby was in the hospital. Plan to use them for work when I go back.
Loves both S1 and M5. If only one: Spectra for better suction and modes. NICU parent context with hour commute. Specific about when each pump shines.
My insurance covered a spectra. It works really well, I don't really have any complaints. I purchased the medela pump in style before I got my spectra and it's awful. I should have believed the bad reviews it had!
"Works really well, I don't really have any complaints." Direct comparison: Medela PIS was awful, Spectra solved the problem.
It really depends on what your setup/location will be for pumping. For example, I have my own office so I just had to shut the door and put a curtain over the door's window. I pumped 3x during the work day, and needed all the milk I could get, so I wanted something powerful. I was very happy with the Spectra S2 (has to be plugged in) as I was always in the same spot, and it was similar to what I had I at home (Spectra S1 that can be charged). I could use the same parts between them. Some people
"Very happy" with S2 at work, S1 at home. Same parts between both. Pumped 3x/day at work. Specific about office setup and part interchangeability.
I have the Spectra S1 and the Momcozy M5. I got the Momcozy M5 with my insurance and purchased the Spectra on my own. I wish I would have gotten the Spectra with insurance because it's more expensive, but I love having both. The Momcozy could not keep up with the needs of my baby when I went back to work. I simply could not pump as much as she was eating. I switched to the spectra at work and I'm now able to get just over what she's eating. However, the wearables come in handy so much. There a
Owns both Spectra S1 and Momcozy M5. Spectra solved the supply problem at work that Momcozy couldn't handle. Would have used insurance on Spectra instead due to higher value.
Hi! I have the Spectra 2 and it works great. I'm a 36H and wore the momcozy pumping bra. Edit: wear! I wear it every day! Almost seven months of daily pumping.
"Works great" at 36H bra size. 7 months of daily pumping. Specific context about larger breasts working fine with Spectra.
I have the Spectra S2 (the corded one) and I absolutely love it. Have been exclusively pumping for almost 4 months using it. The only downside to it is the fact that I am stuck to the wall and can't tend to the baby when I am pumping. The Spectra S1 is cordless and portable which fixes the only downside I have to my pump. I highly highly recommend the Spectra. (Ps, if you get it, make sure to get the Spectra duckbills when you replace the original and not any offbrand ones. The offbrand ones are
"Absolutely love it." EP for 4 months. Only downside: tethered to wall (S2). Specific tip about genuine duckbills vs offbrand. Highly recommends.
I also am a fan of Spectra. I have the S2. I am an under producer and had previously been renting a Medela Symphony and was actually extremely nervous about giving it up. All of the research seemed to show that a medical grade pump like the symphony was superior. But surprisingly the Spectra has given me slightly more output. Also, for some reason my pumping sessions are much shorter with the Spectra.
Under-producer who switched from hospital-grade Symphony to Spectra S2. Surprisingly got MORE output and shorter sessions. Direct comparison favoring Spectra over Symphony.
Spectra 2 is my favorite (I have elvie stride, aveda mya joy, hyegia). All of them were 100% covered by my Blue Shield insurance.
Tried 4 pumps (Spectra 2, Elvie Stride, Aveda Mya Joy, Hygeia). Spectra is favorite. Insurance covered all. Direct multi-pump comparison.
I have a Spectra S1 and a Pumpables Genie and love them both. I got the Pumpables to take with me to work because it is so much smaller and can charge using a mini USB, but also has strong enough suction to be a primary pump. Always make sure to measure for correct flange size and change out duck bills regularly to keep suction consistent. If you're able to, work with a IBCLC to get your pump settings and everything correct.
Loves both Spectra S1 and PGA. Spectra for home, PGA for work. Specific about maintenance (duckbills, flange sizing).
Hands free do not work as well so you don't want to use them as your primary pump. They're good for if you want to be able to use your hands more (still cant bend over!) like at work or doing chores but not at all the time. I didn't like the hands free ones much because I felt like I was always spilling them! I recommend the blue Spectra pump. I would try not to get a corded pump if I could avoid it—I had pink Spectra free from my insurance and the blue one I bought myself so I could be more mo
Bought blue Spectra (S1) out of pocket after getting pink (S2) free. Chose to spend own money for mobility upgrade. Recommends blue specifically.
I've been pleased with my Spectra s1 (blue). I like that is battery operated and pretty straightforward. I recommend thebreastpumpstore.com as my insurance covered almost every pump there, versus only 2 options from the local medical supplier. They also automatically send bottles, storage bags, flanges (and size you request), and pump parts every couple months, completely paid for by insurance. I have more supplies that I could need and plan to donate the extra bottles and whatever i don't use
"Pleased with my Spectra S1." Specific about battery operation, straightforward use, and insurance parts program. Practical positive review.
Spectra is going to be the best for establishing and maintaining supply initially. After the first few weeks you can switch to a wearable for a couple pumps a day. I'd just plan on buying one out of pocket. I have the S1 and would say it's worth any upgrade to not have to sit close to an outlet at all times.
Owns S1, says it's best for establishing supply. Specific advice that the upgrade from S2 to S1 is worth it for portability.
See what your insurance will cover!! I got a Spectra S2 free with insurance and it works great. After I was comfortable with that and felt I had a well established supply, I also bought a Medela Harmony hand pump (life saver, wish I would've had this from the get go for when I got really engorged) as well as a wearable called TSRETE double wearable breast pump from Amazon (cheaper than a lot of the popular options and works so well!)
Got S2 free with insurance, "works great." Used it to establish supply before adding other pumps. Specific about insurance coverage strategy.
I exclusively pumped for my twins for a year. I tried a wireless a few times and got less than half of what I got with my plug in. I used my spectra that I was able to unplug from the wall and walk around the house or pump while driving. Obviously there was maybe a handful of times a wireless could have come in handy in a pinch, but definitely not on a routine basis if you're trying to keep your supply high enough to feed twins.
EP for twins for a year. Wireless gave less than half output. Spectra portable enough to pump while driving. Specific about supply maintenance for twins.
I used the spectra (teal) almost exclusively. I had a wearable but I did not find it any more discreet or convenient than the spectra and the output was significantly lower. I heavily relied on this resource (https://lalactation.com/spectra-pump-settings/) for what settings to use to optimize output with the spectra. A lot of people just start it and crank it to the highest suction but that's not necessarily the best approach. I am pregnant with #2 and my LC recommends the eufy s1 wearable as
Used Spectra almost exclusively. Wearable output was significantly lower. Shares specific resource for optimizing Spectra settings. Planning to add Eufy for #2.
I've had the medela, the spectra and the lansino. I personally don't care for the medela for every day use (don't seem to get the same output and the other two) but I adore the other two! I get great output. Very user friendly too!
Tried all three major brands. "Adore" Spectra (and Lansinoh). Great output, user friendly. Medela output disappointing by comparison.
Use insurance to get the spectra S1. Then get a cheaper wearable like a momcozy for travel purposes. I pumped once a day for a year (after baby went to bed to build a stash) and found those to be my favorites!
Pumped daily for a year to build stash. Spectra S1 is favorite. Specific strategy: insurance for Spectra, cheap wearable for travel.
Wearables aren't as strong so they aren't recommended as your main pump, but a lifesaver for convenience. Momcozy is cheap but doesn't last. You can't go wrong with the spectra (blue one if it's covered, I had the pink one and didn't mind having to be plugged in)
Owns pink Spectra (S2), "can't go wrong with it." Didn't mind being plugged in. Notes Momcozy doesn't last by comparison.
I used my insurance for the pump in style and bought the momcozy m5 out of pocket with my first baby. For my second baby, I paid extra for the Spectra S1 with insurance and paid out of pocket for the momcozy m6. The pump in style was just meh. Output was fine, but it was so noisy and I hated not having a screen to see my settings and there's no timer. The motor also died after 6-7 months of use, so I ended up having to buy another pump. The momcozy m5 was great, comparable output to my pump i
Chose Spectra S1 for second baby after Pump in Style failed. Paid extra for the upgrade, implying high value placed on it. Comparison across multiple pumps.
As someone who just returned to work and works from home more than half the time; the S1 is serving me well so far! It's easy to get extra sets of parts which is key..like, get more sets than you think you need. Personally I'm not comfortable with the "fridge hack" (google for more on that if you don't know / are interested) so I have 4 sets of parts. While wfh I rinse the parts I just used and toss them in a basin of soapy water, then run all through the dishwasher in the evening. As a seconda
Uses S1 for work-from-home pumping, "serving me well." Specific about parts availability, cleaning routine with 4 sets. Practical daily use endorsement.
Usually they are covered by insurance. Have her check before you spend money on it while you could get her something else that isn't free But if she doesn't have insurance or something, spectra has been good for me. was easy to figure out first day home from the hospital after not sleeping for three days Eta: use aeroflow to check insurance coverage. They even send me free parts every month postpartum
"Spectra has been good for me." Easy to figure out even sleep-deprived on day one home. Specific about Aeroflow parts program.
You'll definitely want to use a wall pump at least 1-2x/day because they're generally more effective than wearables. I have a spectra (actually 2, one from each baby) that I really like, and I also have an Elvie Stride that I love - I've worn it in meetings, in the lab, at the store, and have only been called out one by a 3-year-old in my older son's class who saw it on my waistband and asked what it was.
Owns 2 Spectras (one from each baby), "really like" them. Uses alongside Elvie Stride. Specific about using wall pump 1-2x/day for effectiveness.
I've been happy 2x with the blue Spectra and a good pumping bag. I've tried a cheap wearable and it just didn't work very well. I also didn't like not being able to look down and see how output was going. There's something really satisfying to me to pumps working.
Happy with blue Spectra for 2 babies. Prefers seeing output vs wearable. Tried cheap wearable and it didn't work well by comparison.
Hi! I used the momcozy wearables and failed miserably. Switched the medela in style and had a good time with it. The only problem is you're stuck on the wall. I'm currently using the spectre s1. No complaints!
Tried Momcozy (failed), Medela In Style (good but wall-bound), now on Spectra S1 with "no complaints." Journey shows Spectra as best landing spot.
I'm a pancake boob-ed 40 I (US). I use the Spectra 2, Medela Pump in Style Hands-free, and Medela Harmony manual pump. I have not had any issues!
Uses Spectra 2 at 40I cup size with no issues. Specific breast size context relevant to the thread topic. Multiple pump ownership shows it in rotation.
I exclusively pumped with my first for 13 months using the pink spectra as my main and willow go for traveling. I used a medela hand pump for relieving clots and for times when I was on the go without my willow or when I didn't need to do a full pump but just needed a little relief from engorgement. Feel free to ask me any questions, I tried a ton of setups. My biggest piece of advice is, though some pumps truly are garbage (medela pump n style, I'm looking at you) which pump matters less than
EP for 13 months with pink Spectra as main pump. Tried many setups. Specific about Medela PIS being "garbage" by comparison. Long-term reliability.
1) are you planning to nurse also or exclusively pump? If you are nursing some you may be able to get away with a portable pump for a few sessions a day because you'd be nursing also. If you are exclusively pumping you'll definitely want a hospital grade. They are more efficient and will maintain your supply better. 2) I spent hours and hours reviewing pumps. I went with the Spectra (blue one) for main pump and then the Pumpables Genie Advanced for a portable, but used the spectra flanges prim
Chose Spectra (blue) after hours of research as main pump. Uses it with PGA as portable secondary. Spectra flanges as primary. Deliberate, informed choice.
every body will respond differently to each pump! i really like my spectra. others have sworn to me that the medela hand pump works best, or the baby bhudda due to its strong suction. i struggle with low supply so i initially thought it was a pump issue and i purchased both - i get pretty much *nothing* when i use either. the baby bhudda could probably suck my nipples off its so strong, but can't get any milk worth a damn. i think the vibration of the spectra works best for me and seems to be
"Really like my spectra." Low supply but Spectra's vibration works best for her body. Tried Baby Buddha (too strong, no output) — Spectra uniquely effective for her.
I use a spectra s2 and it works well. So long as you have a decent pumping bra to hold the bottles in place it's good. I also have a momcozy s9. It's OK for daytime use when I'm busy, but definitely not as a main pump. I'd also say this version might not be great for your size breasts. I'm an e cup (US size) pre-baby and they just barely stay put. I have to have a good bra on to keep them in place, and they're bordering on being too tight against my chest to be effective.
Uses S2, "works well" with pumping bra. Specific about breast size context (E cup). Momcozy S9 only OK as secondary. Practical comparison.
I like my spectra S2. I don't mind taking the breaks to sit plugged in for 10-20 minutes a few times a day. I have an inexpensive manual medela hand pump for travel which has worked for me but I'm not on the go needing to pump very frequently.
Likes S2, doesn't mind sitting for 10-20 min sessions. Specific about session length and frequency. Practical acceptance of trade-offs.
I have the Spectra S1 as my main pump insurance paid for most of it I think I spent a couple bucks out of pocket with my first baby. I just got the Babybuddah wearables through insurance this pregnancy again I paid a little out of pocket. I did buy a manual pump as well because I was influenced but it wasn't terribly expensive I mostly used it when I was clogged..
Spectra S1 as main pump, insurance covered most. Now adding Baby Buddha for second pregnancy. Uses manual for clogs. Multi-pump strategy with Spectra as foundation.
I have Spectra S1 and Motif Wearables. Both have their own upsides and downsides. Spectra will be the closest to the hospital grade one in terms of suction power. Motif is wearable so it's a bit more convenient if you don't want to be hooked up to a pump for 30 minutes. Spectra parts can be thrown in a dishwasher or a bottle washer, Motif ones have to be hand washed unfortunately. Whatever you pick, make sure to size your flange correctly with a lactation consultant at the hospital!
Owns both Spectra S1 and Motif. Positive on Spectra's suction power (closest to hospital grade) and dishwasher-safe parts. Only downside noted is being tethered for 30 min.
I used a Spectra S2 to pump for two kids. I had access to a locked office/pumping room twice a day for 30- 45 mins each.
Used S2 for two children, 30-45 min sessions twice daily. Longevity across multiple kids shows reliability.
Spectra S1/S2 is a great at home/back up pump, especially if you end up with an oversupply and need to swap collection cups during your big pump. Buying momcozy wearables saved my sanity for when I was solo parenting, on the go, and when guests were at the house. So worth it to have both wearables and a regular pump
Uses Spectra as at-home/backup pump. Specific use case: oversupply requiring collection cup swaps. Positive but prefers wearable for daily convenience.
I like the spectra. I've got the pink plug in one. I've also got mom cozy wearables. It's not the best but they get the job done when needed. You just can't lean forward when using them or you spill out the top
Owns pink Spectra (S2) and Momcozy wearables. Positive on Spectra, notes the Momcozy spilling issue by comparison.
I have the Spectra S2. My insurance covered all of it (doctor had to write a prescription). I ordered it through Aeroflow. I've seen a couple lactation consultants and they have said the Spectra is their favorite. I wish I had gotten the S1 though because the S2 you have to plug into the wall and the S1 is battery operated. I wasn't anticipating having a preemie who I have to pump every 2-3 hours for.
Owns S2, LC-favorite. Wishes she'd gotten S1 for battery (preemie requires frequent pumping). Insurance covered fully via Aeroflow. Specific about pump frequency needs.
I had a spectra s1 and an Elvie and while I loved the elvie for portability/mental health reasons, the spectra was so much more efficient for me.
Owned both Spectra S1 and Elvie. Spectra was "so much more efficient" but acknowledged Elvie's portability advantage.
I initially got the spectra s2 (blue one) because that's what my insurance covered. Loved it, worked great. Then I purchased the Willow Go wearable pumps to prepare for when I go back to work and haven't used my spectra AT ALL since I got it! It's also considered hospital grade suction and my production is the same as on the spectra. It's quite expensive but they often have sales (I got mine for 25% off). It's been amazing to multitask while pumping even at home!
"Loved it, worked great" initially. Switched to Willow Go for convenience but acknowledges Spectra works equally well. Positive but abandoned for wearable lifestyle.
I've had the spectra for 2 kids now and I am going to upgrade to a hand free pump with my next baby. Other than the charge not really lasting anymore, it's been a great pump. I just don't like how big it is and I don't want to be stuck sitting the whole time
Used for 2 kids ("great pump") but battery degraded and it's too big/stationary. Planning hands-free next. Positive overall but ready for something else.
I got the Spectra S2 on the recommendation of my lactation consultant, but in retrospect, I wish I'd gotten the S1 so I'd be a little more portable. You still can't really accomplish anything (laundry, dishes, baby care, etc.) while hooked up to the S2, but at least it's easier to get a change of scenery. [This covers everything I wish I knew about Spectra when I was getting set up.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZ87wwFOjGA&t=2s&ab_channel=TheDoctorsBjorkman) Make sure to measure your flange
Owns S2, LC-recommended. Wishes she'd gotten S1 for portability. Can't multitask while hooked up. Positive overall but notes mobility limitation.
I have the spectra but for going back to work I like a wearable. It allows you to pump on the commute, during meetings and while walking around. I use a eufy s1 and it gives me slightly higher output than the spectra.
Owns Spectra but prefers Eufy S1 for work due to portability. Notes Eufy gives slightly higher output. Spectra is baseline/home pump.
I got the Spectra S1 as that's what most people recommended when I was looking into breast pumps. I will say now that a wearable option (I got mom cozy brand…but would not recommend) was way more convenient as I wasn't stuck sitting in one spot for 30 minutes. So I'd look into the best wearable pumps for sure!!
Got S1 based on recommendations. Acknowledges it works but finds wearable more convenient. Specific about being stuck in one spot for 30 min. Mixed feelings.
It's pretty important to use a strong primary (i.e NOT a wearable) to establish and maintain supply. I am a big fan of BabyBuddha because it's strong enough to be a primary but very versatile and can be used with collection cups! It totally helped my supply and is the pump I reach for most (out of several!)
Mentions need for strong primary but actually prefers Baby Buddha over Spectra. Not a direct Spectra mention — SKIP this for Spectra.
I have the momcozy s9 pros and I love them! I wish I would have gotten the pumpables genie advance or the baby Buddha tho. My main pump is a spectra s1 and I hate that I'm stuck to the wall
Has Spectra S1 as main pump but "hates being stuck to the wall." Acknowledges it as main pump but desires more portability. Mixed — functional but frustrating.
I had a Spectra 1 because I heard it was best at getting the most milk, but I kind of wish I had gotten a wearable pump. I stopped pumping after the first month because I kept missing pumping times because I needed to be holding/caring for my baby- I couldn't stand sitting there while she screamed for 20 minutes as I pumped. I could have bought a wearable pump out of pocket at that point, but was afraid I'd be spending a lot of my pocket money for a second pump that I still wouldn't be successfu
Owned Spectra 1, acknowledges it gets most milk. But the tethered-to-one-spot reality caused her to stop pumping entirely after one month. Specific about the tension between output and lifestyle.
I love my wearable mom cozy's. They work better for me than my Spectra and I can wear them on the go.
Owns Spectra but Momcozy wearables "work better for me." Direct comparison where Spectra loses. Negative for Spectra specifically.
I rented the Medela Symphony from the hospital. I also had the Spectra from insurance, but once I tried the Medela I was like Oh Hell Yeah. It doesn't compare to the Spectra.
Had Spectra from insurance but found Medela Symphony far superior. "Oh Hell Yeah" for Symphony, "doesn't compare" dismisses Spectra. Clear negative.
I couldn't have survived pumping as long as I did without a wearable. I got to the point I hated the spectra. It's so clunky, and I couldn't do anything else while I pumped (couldn't comfortably use my arms in front of me to type or even scroll my phone). I always pumped in a closed office, but it was nice if I needed a quick bathroom or printer trip. I did a few comparison pumps and got the same as my spectra with the wearable (standard Elvie). Maybe over time it had an impact on my supply? (
"Hated the spectra. It's so clunky." Couldn't type or use phone. Switched to Elvie wearable with same output. Specific about ergonomic frustrations.
I had a Spectra S2 and it was eating up my mental health. I ordered wearable Momcozy's, two actually (M5 my fav and S12) and I meant to use all 3 but _very quickly_ (like probably in just half a day lol) dropped the Spectra and never looked back. I just couldn't. Pumping was already ruining postpartum for me so the wearable option made it at least a bit tolerable. For me, it was wearable or nothing. I know many people can do the Spectra and even make it somewhat portable. I wasn't one of those
Owned Spectra S2, abandoned it in half a day due to mental health impact. Specific about it being incompatible with postpartum life for her. Switched to wearables and "never looked back."
I got a Spectra from my insurance but it wasn't emptying me very well and this was after I tried all types of setting and asked my lactation nurse for help Eventually I got a rental with Medela Symphony which is hospital grade and also covered by insurance. This pump plugs into a wall but it empties me so much better.
Spectra wasn't emptying well despite trying all settings and LC help. Switched to Medela Symphony which works "so much better." Clear negative for Spectra.
I got the Spectra S1 through insurance because it was so revered online, but I HATE it. I ended up getting the Momcozy M5 and much prefer it. I am petite, and the Spectra is SO uncomfortable to pump with and sit comfortably (especially in bed at night). I have to lean forward or it spills everywhere - even with the hands free bra and correct flange. With the M5, I can lean back in bed and it still yields more than my Spectra. In hindsight, I probably would have gone with something a little lig
"I HATE it." Specific issues: uncomfortable for petite frame, spills if not leaning forward, poor ergonomics in bed. M5 yields more for her. Strong negative with detailed reasoning.
For me it was the Hakaa! Couldn't get anything out with my Spectra S1 or hand pump.
"Couldn't get anything out with my Spectra S1." Clear negative — owned it, zero output. Body didn't respond to it.