Spectra breast pumps have been around since 2011 and have become a household name. Spectra currently has 5 different breast pumps available, all of which are considered traditional tabletop breast pumps. Some of their breast pumps are over 10 years old, while some of their newer models came to market within the past couple of years. So, what is the best Spectra breast pump? Let’s take a look at each of them.
Top Spectra Breast Pump Models for 2025
Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump
The Spectra? S1 Plus? Premier Rechargeable double electric breast pump provides all the features of the S2 Plus?, but with a built-in battery. This means that you are now able to benefit from the efficiency, power, and performance of a hospital-strength breast pump without compromising on portability. Like all Spectra? pumps, the S1 Plus is a closed system – a physical barrier between the milk and the pump ensures hygiene and motor performance. With a maximum suction strength of 270mmHg and the ability to be used as a single or double pump, the S1 Plus is the ultimate breastfeeding solution with everything you need to get started. The S1’s completely flexible, one-touch button and digital controls allow you to set the pumping program to the speed and rhythm most effective for your body. The suction is adjustable in both let-down and expression modes.
- Rechargeable: Portable with built-in battery.
- Massage Mode: Operates at 45 decibels (like the hush of a library).
- Display with Auto-Timer: Offers easy-to-read settings.
- Adjustable Suction Levels: Up to 270mmHg hospital strength suction.
- Closed System: Prevents backflow into tubing or pump.
- Ultra-Quiet: For discreet pumping sessions.
- Night Light: Allows you to easily pump at any hour.
Spectra S2 Plus Electric Breast Pump
A favorite of moms and lactation consultants, the Spectra? S2 Plus? double electric breast pump is designed to bring confidence and comfort to every moment of your breastfeeding journey. Weighing only 3lbs, the S2 Plus is ultra-quiet for optimum privacy. Additionally, the S2 Plus is hospital strength (270 mmHg), ensuring productive single or double pumping sessions. Like all Spectra? pumps, the S2 Plus is a true closed system, creating a hygienic barrier between outside contaminants and mother’s milk.
- Massage Mode: Simulates the natural suckling of your baby.
- Display with Auto-Timer: Offers easy-to-read settings.
- Customizable levels of suction in both the letdown and expression modes to provide a more natural flow of breast milk.
- Boasting up to 270mmHg of suction via 12 vacuum levels and 5 Expression Cycles, this pump is perfect for any breastfeeding mom, and tailored for exclusive pumpers.
Spectra Synergy Gold Double Electric Breast Pump
The Spectra Synergy Gold breast pump is one of the newer breast pumps in the Spectra line up. It was the first of its kind to introduce dual controls to allow mom to adjust suction settings and strength on each breast. This means you can have one breast pumping at a higher suction strength and speed than the other. It has massage and expression modes and a max suction of 270 mmHg. It weighs a little over 4 pounds and has a touchscreen LCD screen.
- The dual controls allow for independent vacuum settings at 0-270mmHg PER BREAST!
- It also offers a mute mode for even more discreet pumping.
- The convenient night light has 3 levels for easy middle-of-the-night pumping, and the touchscreen LCD makes selecting your cycle and vacuum a breeze!
- With 5 cycles in both Massage and Expression Modes, this pump has something for everyone.
Spectra Synergy Gold Portable Breast Pump
The Spectra Synergy Gold Portable breast pump is Spectra’s newest breast pump and is a variation of the Spectra Synergy Gold breast pump. The Spectra Synergy Gold Portable has the dual control technology, but only for suction strength. It also has an internal rechargeable battery, hence the “portable” in its name. It has massage and expression modes and a max suction of 270 mmHg. It weighs 1.5 pounds and has a touchscreen LCD screen.
- The SG Portable’s double adjustable feature allows for comfortable and independent suction of up to 12 levels per breast.
- Compact and hospital strength, the newest addition to the Spectra Baby USA product line is every pumping mom’s dream come true – powerful rechargeable dual motors with Spectra’s trademarked Natural Nursing Technology.
Spectra 9 Plus Premier Portable Breast Pump
Our sleekest model in the Spectra line-up, the 9 Plus was designed for busy moms seeking portability and performance. Small, discreet, rechargeable, and weighing only 1/2lb, the 9 Plus is full of unique features that make pumping a more natural part of the nursing process. It provides up to 260mmHg of suction and is still considered hospital strength. The 9Plus also offers an adjustable Massage Mode along with 10 levels of vacuum in Expression Mode and a convenient timer.
- The backlit LCD screen is an added feature that moms love as well.
- Pair this little powerhouse with the hands-free CaraCups and you have a convenient hands-free pumping setup without sacrificing efficiency.
Comparison Table of Spectra Breast Pumps
| Model | Weight | Suction Strength | Battery | Key Features | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spectra S1 Plus | 3 lbs | 270 mmHg | Rechargeable (3 hours) | Night light, timer, ultra-quiet, closed system | $255 |
| Spectra S2 Plus | 3 lbs | 270 mmHg | Plug-in only | Massage mode, timer, ultra-quiet, closed system | $169 |
| Spectra Synergy Gold | 4 lbs | 270 mmHg | Plug-in only | Dual motor, touchscreen, mute mode, 3-level night light | $325 |
| Spectra Synergy Gold Portable | 1.5 lbs | 270 mmHg | Rechargeable | Dual suction control, touchscreen, portable | $342 |
| Spectra 9 Plus | 0.5 lbs | 260 mmHg | Rechargeable (2.5 hours) | Ultra-portable, hands-free compatible, backlit LCD | $200 |
Pros and Cons of Top Spectra Models
Spectra S1 Plus
- Pros: Extremely comfortable, affordable, high output, strong motor and high setting capabilities, remembers your settings for the next session, has a handle for easy transport.
- Cons: Shuts off after a certain amount of time, so you’ll need to start over to continue. It’s bulky and heavy.
Spectra S2 Plus
- Pros: Powerful yet lightweight, effective, incredibly quiet, and easy to clean. We especially appreciated its customizable settings and built-in timer.
- Cons: It’s loud and doesn’t default to letdown mode when you first turn it on. It’s bulky and heavy.
Spectra Synergy Gold
- Pros: 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.
- Cons: There is no battery function so you need to be plugged into a wall and at over 5.5 pounds, it’s less portable than many other options.
Real Testing Scenarios
The Spectra S1 Plus is a popular choice among breastfeeding moms for a good reason. Whether it is top marks in our testing or user reviews online, everyone can agree that this is a comfortable and efficient pump for most moms. One of our lactating moms said, “I loved this pump, it was comfortable and pumped so quickly I was done in half the time as other pumps.” We recommend it to friends and family looking for an easy-to-use, effective, and quality pump. With a rechargeable battery, you can pump wherever and whenever necessary. This pump has a strong, adjustable suction featuring 12 suction levels and different speeds. In our tests, it pumped 0.55 ounces of milk per minute. It is also pretty quiet, with a measured decibel reading of 44.5 dB in our tests. This machine is bulkier and heavier, weighing 2.9 lbs, which may not suit those seeking compact and lightweight.
Purchasing Guide for Spectra Breast Pumps
- Consider Your Lifestyle: If you’re looking for a customizable pump with strong hospital strength that is often covered by insurance, the Spectra S2 Plus is it! This hospital-strength, closed system pump allows for single or double pumping, along with loads of additional features, all in a pump unit that weighs in at under 3 lbs.
- Insurance Coverage: Your health insurance company must cover the cost of a breast pump, but exact coverage varies based on your insurance company. Some may cover both the S1 and S2, while others may only cover one. Some companies may not cover either, but will cover another brand of breast pump.
- Portability Needs: The 9 Plus is Spectra’s smallest pump, weighing in at only ? a pound! This tiny, but mighty pump offers the ultimate in on-the-go single or double pumping. The rechargeable battery allows for convenient pumping in almost any location.
- Budget: The Spectra S2 is the more affordable model. It costs about $44 less, namely because it doesn’t come with the built-in rechargeable battery you get with the S1.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Spectra S1 and S2?
The Spectra S2 breast pump and the Spectra S1 breast pump are near identical breast pumps, with only 2 differences: battery and color. The Spectra S2 does not have an internal rechargeable battery and needs to be plugged into a wall outlet every time it is used.
Is the Spectra Synergy Gold worth the price?
The Spectra Synergy Gold is a game-changer in the pumping world! Never before have we seen a pump with so many features and customizable options! The dual controls allow for independent vacuum settings at 0-270mmHg PER BREAST!
Can I use Spectra pumps for exclusive pumping?
A favorite among Exclusive Pumpers, the Spectra S1 Plus includes all the features and functions of the S2 Plus and a rechargeable battery! The freedom of outlet-free pumping is often offered as an “upgrade” through health insurance plans.
Conclusion
Spectra breast pumps offer a range of options for every mom, from the portable 9 Plus to the powerful Synergy Gold. Whether you prioritize portability, customization, or budget, there’s a Spectra pump to meet your needs. For more information on breastfeeding and pumping, visit CDC Breastfeeding Guidelines.