Best Electric Breast Pump in 2023

No food will beat breast milk when it comes to providing the essential and beneficial nutrients to babies. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists both recommend exclusive feeding of breast milk during the first 6 months of your baby’s life. It is also worth saying that babies who have been breastfed for this long have fewer trips to the hospital.

However, there will always come a time where you will be unavailable to feed your baby. You might need to go back to work or have some errands to run, needless to say, the likelihood of using a breast pump is high. A breast pump is useful in a number of ways, and the biggest one is not depending on formula because of your unavailability.

Breast pumps are beneficial for mothers who produce low quantity of milk. The device aids you in nursing because it stimulates milk flow. But if you’re the opposite and overproduces, you can take advantage of this time and save the “superfood” for future use. With breast pumps, nothing goes to waste, whether it’s your time or milk.

So how do you choose a breast pump? To give you an idea, an electric breast pump will be the more suitable choice compared to the manual breast pump if you need to save time. But this doesn’t mean that you should ditch manual pumps. Manuals still have their advantages, but depending on you, they can be labor-intensive and time-consuming before you get your desired quantity.

Below is our review of the 10 best electric breast pumps in the market. Each of them has its own features that may be a disadvantage to one but an advantage to another. To help you further, we have written a buyer’s guide to declutter your mind with the overload of information.

Best Electric Breast Pump Comparison Table

Best Electric Breast Pump Review

Medela Sonata Smart – Editor’s Choice

Our first unit is one of the best electric breast pumps in the market, the Medela Sonata Smart. This model is a double pump which gives you the advantage of pumping both breasts at once. Upon purchasing, you will get 2 silicone membranes, 2 breast shield connectors, 2 connector caps, 2 valves, and a set of tubing for your double pumping kit.

Neat Storage

You will also get a set of 24 mm and 27 mm breast shields and 4 pieces of 5-ounce milk bottles with lids. For the bottles, Medela included 2 stands and as well as a cooler with an ice pack. We like the inclusion of the cooler for storing the milk as well as the stand to prevent the bottles from tipping over.

This electric breast pump gives you flexibility in using it anywhere because it uses rechargeable lithium-ion battery. We prefer electric breast pumps that are rechargeable simply because it’s going to be easier to use them anywhere. However, Sonata only lasts for an hour of usage, which can limit you to about 3 to 4 pumping sessions.

Lightweight, Portable, Quiet

This unit is not only portable because of being cordless; the Sonata is also a compact model and only weighs 8.1lbs. During usage, we’re pleased that this pump is very quiet, so you don’t have to feel uncomfortable during spontaneous sessions whether in travel or during nights at home.

Speaking of bedtime, Sonata utilizes a backlit pump control which we love for better visibility. You can adjust its level of brightness as well, so you don’t have to worry about using it at night time. We should also mention that the display is sensitive that it only requires light and slight touch to work.

Different Pumping Rhythms

So how does Sonata performs? This breast pump offers you 2 choices of pumping rhythms; Signature and Lifestyle. The former is your default rhythm and is similar to their model, the Medela Symphony. However, if you want to conserve battery and get the pump even quieter, you can select the Lifestyle Rhythm. Sadly, for us, the two selections don’t feel like they have any noticeable difference during usage.

The Sonata, like with Medela’s other models, uses their signature 2-phase technology. This means the pump starts in the stimulation phase, followed by the expression phase. You can jump to our buyer’s guide to read more about the importance of this feature in breast pumps. But to give you an idea, utilizing these modes makes the pumping session more efficient and comfortable since it mimics your baby’s natural sucking motion.

One-Touch Let-Down Button

Another unique thing with the Medela is if you happen to express milk earlier than the 2-minute mark of the stimulation phase, you can select the letdown button to help you with the session.

Responsive Pump Technology

The Medela Sonata is quite technologically advanced in terms of some features. For one, it has an app, which we will discuss later. But for now, the unit’s RPT (Responsive Pump Technology) deserves the spotlight.

What this technology does is adjust the vacuum throughout the whole pumping session depending on a variety of factors. These factors include your personal shape (i.e., where you pump), breast fullness, elevation (i.e., the environment). Sonata’s RPT ensures consistent pressure that is tailored to you and the session.

MyMedela App

Everything we do will eventually have an app to accompany it. With this pump’s Bluetooth-enabled app, you can keep track of your baby’s growth, pumping sessions, and get notifications and reminders relevant to breastfeeding and pumping. What is the advantage of this app? For instance, because you can keep track of the ounces you produced, you can quickly know if you are meeting your feeding goals.

We didn’t expect to make Sonata’s review this long, but its features are worth mentioning. However, even if this unit is our top pick, we still have a few comments.

Medela Pump in Style – Best Breast Pump for Working Moms

Our next unit is also a double electric breast pump from Medela. The model offers the same convenience of having everything fit inside a backpack. The accessories that come with the Pump in Style are 24 and 27 mm breast shields, their connectors, 2 valves, a set of tubing, and 4 pieces of 5-ounce bottles with lids.

The bottles are lightweight and prone to tipping over, but the good news is, any bottle will fit with this pump as long as they aren’t too wide.

Perfect for On-the-Go But…

Like the former unit from Medela, the Pump in Style includes a cooler bag and ice pack for the bottles. The cooler bag fits inside the backpack so that you can carry everything subtly in one go. Did we mention that the pump itself is built into the bag?

However, if you prefer to take it out, you can also do that because it is only attached in the bag via velcro. The idea of getting everything on-the-go is appealing, especially for busy moms. But we have to criticize the bag’s seams because they don’t feel durable.

Another reason why Pump in Style is great for on-the-go is that you can either use it using the battery pack, AC adapter, or car adapter. Although the battery pack gives you the advantage of portability, we think that some moms will find replacing 8 double A batteries every now then to be not as economical. Nonetheless, the battery pack option is useful for emergency situations. Note that you also have to purchase the car adapter separately, but we think it is still a good investment, especially for spontaneous car sessions.

Two-Phase Technology

Like other Medela models, the Pump in Style uses the 2-phase technology. The pump starts first with fast suction for the stimulation phase, and after two minutes, the rhythm will get slower for the milk let-down. This unit also has a let-down button similar to our first model, which serves as an additional control to start the second phase earlier.

We don’t want to seem redundant about the advantage of getting different phases for pumping, but as we said earlier in Sonata, it makes the session feel more natural and efficient.

Adjustable Vacuum Settings

On the front of the pack, you will see a dial that goes from minimum to maximum. Of course, an adjustable suction setting customizes the experience for you and, at the same time, you can modify it according to your time and needs.

The Advantage and Disadvantage of an Open System Pump

The Pump in Style is not as quiet as the Sonata. But moms will love how easy it is to use the pump. All you need to do is attach the tubing, and you’re ready to start. There are no additional fumbling needed so even if you’re at work, you can sneak in some sessions during your free time.

To prevent this from happening and contaminating your breast milk, you can replace the tubes as often as needed. These parts are easy to find, but in the long run, it can become a costly necessity.

Spectra Baby USA – Best for Moms with Low Milk Production

Another popular model in this review is the S2 Plus Premier from Spectra Baby USA. Like previous models, you can opt to either use this as a double pump or single pump. The unit comes with 2 pieces each of 24 and 28 mm flange, 2 backflow protectors, 2 duckbill valves, and 2 tubings.

The S2 Plus Premier also comes with 30 disposable milk bags and 4 bottles with caps. However, we recommend using other bottles because the ones that come with Spectra tend to leak. They are do not fit that securely to the pump, which can cause the bottles to fall.

In terms of usage, the model utilizes an AC adapter. This feature can be a drawback to some moms because it limits them to do their pumping session somewhere close to an outlet. However, what brings this unit worthy of being in our list is how useful it will be for moms with low milk production.

Perfect for Low Milk Production

The S2 Plus Premier has an adjustable suction with the maximum at 280mmHg. This model also works using 2 phases; the massage mode and expression mode. The pump starts off with short, shallow suction and then switch to a deeper and slower rhythm.

The buttons in the control panel are responsive and allow you to set the pump to your desired speed and rhythm. And unlike the first Medela pump we reviewed, this model has a memory mode so that you can set a program with your favorite settings.

Closed System Pump

The significant disadvantage of our previous unit is that it has an open system pump. In contrast, the S2 Plus Premier is easy to clean because of its closed pumping system. This feature keeps its tubing dry because it prevents airflow from the milk produced. Both the flanges and the backflow protector helps in keeping the unit’s tubing free from any residue.

Quiet and Comfortable

Timer and Nightlight

The S2 Plus Premier comes with a nightlight and a timer as well. The light gives you 2 levels of illumination, which we think is excellent, especially for nighttime use. Combine this feature with how quiet this pump works, and you’ll never need to worry about waking up your spouse. Trust us; we’ve all been there. The timer is useful incase you fall asleep during pumping. You can set it to a certain period of time, and the device will automatically shut off.

BelleMa Effective Pro – Best for Everyday Use

Control the Left and Right Pump Independently

Wouldn’t it be great if you can control the pumps in dual setting independently? BelleMa has the answer for you. The device’s LCD display even shows the expression and time of each side. You can also use other bottles because the model comes with a bottle adapter so that they can be compatible with the pump.

But what makes the Effective Pro the best electric breast pump for everyday use?

Comfortable and Efficient

One word, comfort. If you are the type who needs to pump frequently, you need something comfortable yet reliable. BelleMa Effective Pro provides a gentle yet efficient pump thanks to the silicone padding of the shields. The shields feel soft, and your skin will not painfully rub against them during the session. A comfortable pumping experience leads to better milk production anyway.

It is also an efficient device for daily use because you can customize different settings during pumping. A tad close to our previous model, the Effective Pro has a maximum suction capacity of 250mmHg. You will also get 9 suction levels for achieving a more personalized experience.

The unit, like all of our models so far, starts off with a fast pumping rhythm to stimulate let-down reflex. Afterward, the pump will go into the expression phase where the rhythm gets slower for a gentle yet efficient milk flow.

Effective Pro is a fairly quiet device which is always a plus. It is also generally easy to clean because it is a closed system pump with an anti-backflow design. The diaphragm of the flange prevents the milk from flowing back into the tubes and motor, so you don’t have to worry about milk contamination. However, the top pieces are challenging to clean, particularly the area where the flange attaches to the body of the pump.

Lastly, we like that even though BelleMa works primarily using an AC adapter, it also gives you the option of using a battery pack or a USB cable. We think having multiple options is great, but we have no problem with using the adapter because it’s quite long.

BabyWombWorld – Best for Spontaneous Sessions

It is inevitable that you will have random bouts of pumping sessions. But it would be difficult to use a pump that is cordless and, at the same time, has low suction capacity. We choose this double electric breast pump from BabyWombWorld because it gives you the advantage of portability and control.

Independent Dual Control

Like our previous model from BelleMa, this pump gives you the ability to control the left and right pump independently. The display screen is easy to understand, and it neatly shows the suction level of each pump. We like how you get individual control of each pump because this can be useful for moms that produce different amounts of milk in each breast. You have 9 suction levels to choose from so that you can find a suitable and comfortable level during pumping.

Sadly, the device only comes with 25 mm flanges. You have to buy other sizes (21 and 29 mm) if these suit you better. But nonetheless, we commend the overall design of the flange. It is closed and forms a seal for massaging, squeezing, and suctioning the breast.

Looking back at the display, you will also see the suction phase and usage time. Knowing how long you’ve been pumping is great because it can help you keep track of how long it takes for you to stimulate a let-down. This serves as a basis for your sessions to anticipate when you’ll express milk.

So how does this pump performs? Like with our previous models, BabyWombWorld utilizes a 2-phase suction; stimulation and expression. It starts with a quick and short rhythm followed by slower suctions for milk expression. You can also use the touch panel to adjust the suction strengths of each phase for a more efficient milk production. Speaking of touch panel, we like how responsive it is to touch. However, we wish the buttons light up for night time use.

No More Resetting

Rechargeable Battery with 2-Hour Lifespan

Lastly, did you know that all of these functions come in a rechargeable device? Yes! This unit from BabyWombWorld utilizes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. We recommend charging it overnight, and it can last you for a maximum of 2 hours of pumping usage.

Evenflo Feeding Advanced – Best for Relieving Engorgement

Breast engorgement usually happens if not enough milk is expressed from the breasts. This results in a painful condition due to the swelling and throbbing of engorged breasts. For mothers to relieve themselves of the pain, they must remove the breast milk.

32 Speed and Suction Settings

The Evenflo Advanced is a double electric breast pump that offers a total of 32 speed and suction combinations. We think that this capacity makes this unit useful for relieving engorgement suited to individual mothers. You also have a choice of using it via the AC adapter or 6 double A batteries for cordless travels.

The model has separate buttons for speed and suction adjustments. You will get 4 options for the speed and 8 levels for the suction to choose from. With different combinations that you can try, it is impossible that you will not find the one that is satisfactory for you.

Most electric breast pumps do not allow individual control of the suction and speed. And because they are correlated with each other, what happens is if the device goes faster, the suction will get stronger as well. This function can be problematic, especially if you only need to increase the speed or suction strength. With Evenflo Advanced, you can customize your pumping experience whether your purpose is to relieve engorgement or just to collect milk in advance.

Comes with Multiple PerfectPosition Flange Sizes

If you are engorged, you are already feeling uncomfortable. The last thing you want is to use a wrong flange size or buy a separate size only to find out that it doesn’t fit upon purchasing. This unit comes with 3 flange sizes ranging from 24.5 mm, 28.0 mm, and 30.5 mm. We really love that Evenflo alreadt\y included these sizes so that you can try whichever flange fits you perfectly.

Evenflo designed their flange kit and called it PerfectPosition. What is the relevance of this feature? The flange kit is angled, which, in turn, eliminates the need to slouch or lean forward for a better flow of milk into the bottle. This way, you will have a more comfortable and relaxed pumping session without risking spills. But speaking of spills…

Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk, Literally

Looking at Evenflo Advanced, you’ll notice that it has 2 built-in bottle holders. You can take advantage of them before and after pumping. First, you can put the bottles with their flange kits in this holder until you’re ready to pump. The bottles can tip over, especially with the medium and large flange, so having them in the holders for support is a plus.

And after you finished pumping, you can put the bottles back in the holders temporarily, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally spilling your milk while you arrange yourself. It takes time and effort to get this superfood, and every detail in a model’s design for keeping them safe is a plus.

Lastly, if we could change anything with the pump, it would be the valve’s design. Taking it off the flange takes some effort, and you need some extra grip to remove it quickly. Other than this, there are no complicated parts or steps when it comes to cleaning the unit.

IKARE – Best Backup Pump

Like our previous product, the IKARE Double Electric Breast Pump bears the term hospital-grade. But what does being hospital-grade means? Units that are labeled with as hospital-grade are generally bigger and stronger because they are meant for multiple users. While most of them live up to the name, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not recognize the term. So overall, being called a hospital-grade pump does not confirm a unit’s reliability. If you want to know more about these pumps, visit our buyer’s guide.

Back to our review, we chose this device from IKARE as the best backup breast pump because it is complete with accessories as close to our top pick from Medela. You will get a cooler bag complete with an ice pack for storing the 2 milk bottles included in the unit. The bottles also have caps and even nipple caps, so you don’t need to transfer the milk in a separate container for feeding your baby.

Another unique inclusion in this set is IKARE included 3 sizes of flanges. They measure at 21, 24, and 27 mm to give you the perfect fit. However, we find the silicone cover of the flanges not as velvety and soft compared to our previous models. They can be uncomfortable during use, so we recommend removing them instead.

Another nice thing and perhaps a big advantage of this model is the fact that it is rechargeable. If you’re choosing a backup breast pump, why not find a model that gives you freedom in portability? But if we could comment an improvement, it would’ve been nicer if IKARE has included a bag to keep all the accessories and pump in one place.

You will have various functions to select from in the device’s touch control panel. The controls range from mode selection (3 phases), freestyle mode, preset mode, 20-speed settings, and 6 suction levels. You will also get a gist on how long you’ve been pumping with the digital timer.

Besides these icons, what we like most is the panel shows a battery indicator. This way, when you use it, you will not risk having the device die on you. If the indicator turns red, you can charge it first before using.

The pump itself is quiet given the different suction levels and speed settings that you can experiment with. There are also 3 modes similar to pumps that use 2-phase rhythms. These modes include massage, bionic, and deep express.

Of course, the latter has the highest and strongest setting, while the massage mode is best for stimulating. You can also opt to choose freestyle mode for a personalized experience or the preset mode that automatically starts with a 2-minute massage mode.

Lansinoh Signature Pro – Best for First-Timers

If you loved Lansinoh’s manual breast pump, then this similarly looking double electric pump will surely grab your attention. Upon looking at the device, you’ll notice how straightforward its LCD screen is. For first time nursing moms, it can be daunting to start using a pump. Getting an easy to operate model is your best choice.

The Signature Pro is also mild enough for first-time pumpers because its tubing is a split-type for both pumps. You will also be getting 3 pumping styles to help you find the most efficient way to stimulate milk flow. These styles include a short, quick rhythm, a moderate rhythm, and a long, slow suction. The pump utilizes a 2-phase suction similar to our previous models as well.

Straightforward Controls

For the control panel, we like that it shows the time largely, and the fact that it is a backlit screen can help during night pumping sessions. Other than the time, you will also see the buttons for stimulation and expression mode, pumping style selector, and increasing/decreasing buttons for up to 8 suction levels.

Some other additions that you’ll get with this unit from Lansinoh are two-piece lids for the bottles. We like these lids because you can use them for quickly sealing the bottles for storage or for direct feeding after pumping by adding the collar and nipple. To eliminate the need for transfer, you can even pump directly in the included milk storage bags to save time.

However, the unit only comes with a standard-sized flange measuring 25 mm. If you need a larger size, you can buy a 30.5 mm flange. We do not know if Lansinoh provides another size to select.

Bellababy – Best Value for Money

Compared to manual breast pumps, their electric counterparts can get expensive. But with the right research, you can find units in the market that will cost you nearly half of those from big brands. But is it worth it to try something that isn’t popular?

This double electric breast pump from Bellababy gives you the features from earlier models without breaking the bank. Because of this, we think this breast pump gives you the best value for your money.

With and Without Cord

First, this unit is rechargeable via the USB cable attached to either a power bank or laptop. Charging with these devices can get you usage for up to 2 hours. You can also use its adapter if it’s more convenient for you to use an outlet. Running low on phone juice? The Bellababy breast pump even doubles as a power bank that you can use for emergencies. Along with the time to check how long you’ve been pumping, you can also see the charge status of this pump at its LCD display.

No Backflow and Time-Saving Pumping Sessions

Besides the portability and lifespan advantage, the unit utilizes a closed pump system as well. As we have discussed earlier, this system prevents backflow, which, in turn, will remove the risk of contamination.

And like the previous model from Lansinoh, Bellababy also comes with adapters so that you can pump directly into the milk bags.

For the performance, you will get a total of 4 modes to choose from. First is the massage and stimulation mode, followed by continuous suction. You can personalize both of these modes by selecting the suction level with 6 as the highest.

The other two modes are normal suction and frequency conversion, each with 9 levels of suction capacity. The highest you can get at the 9th level measures about 330 mmHg. Note that a drawback we found with this pump is that even its lower levels are capable of very strong suction.

This powerful suction can surprise most moms, and some even find it painful. And lastly, the unit only comes with one flange size. Nonetheless, for its price point, you will get some fantastic features in the expense of buying other flange sizes.

YIHUNION – Best Affordable Electric Breast Pump

The last model in our review is a portable rechargeable breast pump from YIHUNION. This unit strays from the rest of our products because this is the only single pump that made to our list. As we have mentioned, this is a rechargeable device whether it’s via the plug, or if you prefer, you can take advantage of the USB connector. We think it’s a plus that you can connect it to a power bank or a laptop. A breast pump with multiple power sources is always a great buy, especially for random occasions where an outlet or spare batteries are not present.

Upon purchasing, you will also get an insulated breast pump bag. It is small enough that you can even use it as a lunch bag or as an additional organizer inside a larger bag. Sadly, the unit only comes with a 24 mm flange, and they only offer another size, which is 26 mm that is sold separately.

One-Hand or Hands-Free?

Although you will not get other accessories as many as those from the pricier models, this pump has features that give you what you pay for. A particular favorite for us is the fact that you can convert it as a portable one-hand pump into a tabletop pump for a hands-free and more comfortable experience. The former is excellent for multi-tasking, while you can use the latter for those sessions at home thanks to the split straw.

How does YIHUNION perform? The control panel only has 4 buttons. You can select from 8 levels of suction and whichever you choose is shown largely on the screen. There is also a battery indicator and timer, but other than these icons, there is nothing else on display.

8 levels massage mode, which can help the mother have a better lactation.

Milking Mode for Newborns

If you’re wondering what the M button does, YIHUNION specifically has this feature for mothers with newborns. YIHUNION calls this function as the milking mode, and you can also customize the level of its suction. We would have appreciated it if the device has a button for stimulation and expression because this can be helpful for moms to achieve a more efficient pumping session.

Do we found something to criticize about its performance as a pump? For us, if you compare this pump to the earlier models, even its highest suction level is not that strong. But as we have said in this article, different women can react to a device differently.

Best Electric Breast Pump Buyer’s Guide

Types of Breast Pump

There are only two types of electric breast pump, and we will differentiate them below. However, we think that it’s only right to enlighten you about the different kinds of breast pump. This way, you will get an idea on which type fits your lifestyle the most.

Manual Breast Pumps

As we have mentioned in our introduction, manual pumps cost less compared to electric pumps. The reason for this is they do not operate using a motor. This type of breast pump almost looks like an air horn where a nipple shield is attached to a valve that opens onto a milk catcher. You use these devices manually by squeezing the lever to create suction.

While manual breast pumps give you the advantage of affordability and portability, they require a laborious task which can be time-consuming. And nowadays, there are electric pumps that offer the same portable function anyway since some are battery-operated or rechargeable. Nevertheless, manual breast pumps are great backup, especially for occasional pumping.

Passive Breast Pumps

Another type of breast pump is the passive type or milk catchers. They are so-called because you can use them in catching milk on one breast while you breastfeed on the other. Milk catchers look like a shaped single-piece food-grade silicone that you attach around your nipple. And because they catch the leaks on the other breast, no milk is going to waste.

In a way, you can also consider passive breast pumps as manual breast pumps. Why? Because you can even squeeze the milk reservoir to create a suction and pumping action on your breast.

Electric Breast Pumps

As you have seen in our reviews, electric breast pumps work using motors. There are units that need to stay plugged in an outlet, some have replaceable battery packs, and others use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Models that use an AC adapter may not be travel-friendly. Thus, rechargeable electric breast pumps are more practical if you want the on-the-go advantage of cordless pumps. Rechargeable models might cost more, but because you don’t have to buy replacement batteries constantly, in the long run, they will cost you less.

There are 2 types of electric breast pumps:

• Single electric breast pump: Single pumps only work one breast at a time like the last model we reviewed from YIHUNION. An advantage that you can get with this type is that you can multi-task and do other things with your free hand.

• Double electric breast pump: This type helps you save time by pumping both breasts simultaneously. But for us, a double pump is a good purchase since these models will allow you to pump only one breast anyway. You can do this by converting the device into a single pump using some removals and adjustments.

What About Hospital-Grade Pumps?

You have seen various models like the IKARE double electric breast pump that uses the term “hospital-grade.” Having marketed as such can influence your decision, but the question is, does this term bears any merit? Unfortunately, the Food and Drug Administration does not recognize the term “hospital-grade.” What this means is  a device that is called hospital-grade by its manufacturer does not automatically mean that it will be highly safe and hygienic. 

Factors to Consider in Buying the Best Electric Breast Pump

Ease of Assembly and Cleaning

Upon the arrival of the unit, the last thing you want is to be annoyed by how difficult is it to assemble. You can check the feedback by various customers or check the website of the model to have a gist on how easy it is to understand its manual. You can also opt for electric breast pumps that do not have many parts that need assembling.

Lastly, your baby’s milk is going to pass through the pump. And just like with any other baby devices, hygiene is something that you shouldn’t disregard. A unit that you can easily disassemble and assemble will allow you to clean it thoroughly and carefully so that its lifespan will be longer as well.

Another great tip is to look for a closed system pump like most of the models in this review because there pump mechanism doesn’t come in contact with the milk collecting kit. This way, you run no risk of contamination.

Suction Adjustability

Some moms use their pump to relieve engorgement. While some, use the device to help them produce more milk. These are some of the ways that you can use a breast pump and therefore, a unit that offers suction adjustability will make your pumping experience easier and less painful.

To help you understand, you should be looking for a device that uses two phases of pumping:

1. Stimulation
2. Expression

You might have been familiar with this feature as we always mention it throughout the article. We think that this is an excellent feature to consider because using a device that undergoes these phases will make the experience feel more natural, comfortable, and efficient.

Comfort

Other than suction adjustability, your overall comfort also plays a role in making the experience stress-free or painful. A comfortable breast pump means that it uses a flange (or flanges) that fits you well. Flanges or breast shield are the plastic pieces that you put over your breast during pumping.

Since the unit’s suction pulls the nipple onto the flange, if it doesn’t fit properly, then the experience can be painful. Models with multiple flange sizes like the Evenflo Advanced allows you to do a trial and error with fittings without worrying about multiple wrong purchases.

Portability and Noise

Gone are the days where electric breast pumps limit you next to an outlet. Rechargeable models give you the ability to bring it anywhere and use it anytime. But besides being cordless, the unit’s weight also influences its portability. It is also better if you can get all the accessories and the device in one compact carrier to keep everything clean and organized for travel.

We included the noise factor in portability because, of course, discretion is important when it comes to traveling.

Single Pump vs Double Pump

Earlier, we have differentiated a single and a double electric breast pump. Knowing which one to choose depends on your lifestyle. For example, a single electric pump only lets you express milk from only one breast at a time, while a double pump, on the other hand, allows you to pump from both breasts simultaneously.

The former is going to be more lightweight and is more fitting for someone who only pumps occasionally. The latter is going to cost more but allows you to produce more milk in less time. If you’re busy and you need the volume, we advise that you go with the double electric breast pump.

Accessories

Some of the accessories that typically come with the electric pump membranes, breast shield connectors, connector caps, valves, tubings, and adapters, to name a few. Each of them has their own uses that can make your pumping session more efficient, hygienic, and comfortable. Some units come complete with accessories, which, in turn, lessens the need for separate purchases. We prefer sets when they are kept in one storage place, so you don’t risk losing any accessory whether you’re at home or not.

Another useful tip to look out for is the availability of accessories or parts of the breast pump that you’re purchasing. Not only as a backup incase they got broken, but because some models do not come with accessories, it will be a drag to look for a piece that has to fit them.

Conclusion

The primary benefit of using a breast pump is the ability of not needing to halt your child’s breast milk feeding even if you are unavailable. You can store milk in advance and even allow other people to bond with your baby while you are away. You can also relieve yourself from painful engorgement by using a pump that mimics a baby’s suckling.

There are different things to consider when choosing the best electric breast pump. Of course, these devices give you a more efficient milk production without manual labor. And the good news is, some models give you the cordless advantage by using rechargeable batteries and battery packs.

Our top pick is the Medela Sonata. For us, it is a practical purchase because you will get a lot of accessories that all fit nicely inside the bag. It even comes with a bottle cooler, so you don’t have to get up for storage while pumping.

The device itself is rechargeable, quiet, and uses 2-phase suction with Medela’s RPT for a personalized pumping experience. We also like that the pump works with an app to keep track of your pumping sessions.

But at the end of the day, the unit that will be your “best” electric breast pump is something that fits with your lifestyle and needs. Perhaps you prefer something that is travel-friendly or something that is gentle enough for a first time user. Regardless, the market offers a lot of units, and you just have to do your research thoroughly.

Do you have a personal pick among these products? Comment down below and don’t hesitate to leave a question for us!