Portable Pump Comparison: Which Pumps Make the Cut?

Alright, friends! It’s finally here – the updated portable breast pump review that you’ve been asking for! I did my first big comparison video on portable pumps a few years back, and since then, the pump world has exploded with tons of new options. There are so many pumps now that narrowing this list down was like trying to pick a favorite child! But after so much testing (and a bit of hair-pulling), I’m thrilled to bring you the latest and greatest.

(This post was originally a video. Check it out, here!)

How I Picked the Pumps

I dove deep to choose the most relevant and widely available pumps right now, cutting out the ones that are discontinued or rarely seen. So if your old favorite isn’t on this list, there’s a good chance it’s no longer on the market (sorry!).

I’ve organized this guide by

• Price
• Cycle Speeds
• Functionality
• Size and Weight

Plus, I did a Facebook poll to see your favorites – and I’ll spill my personal top picks at the end!

Price Range & Features

Portable pumps are all over the place price-wise, ranging from under $50 to $350+. I’ve got the full lineup here, from bargain pumps like the NCVI (perfect if you want a budget-friendly option) to higher-end models like the Spectra Dual Compact and the Ardo Alyssa for those of you looking for the Cadillac of portable pumps.

Remember to check for any coupons on our website because they can make a big difference!

Here is the list of pumps ranked from least expensive to most expensive:

1. NCVI Electric: $44 – $49
2. NCVI Double Electric: $59
3. iKare: $50 – $69
4. Horigen: $99
5. Freemie Independence: $99 – $129
6. Freemie Liberty: $109 – $159
7. Freemie Rose: $109 – $169
8. Cimilre E1: $140 – $149
9. Motif Duo: $149
10. Cimilre P1: $150 – $169
11. Unimom Minuet: $159
12. Pumpables Genie Advanced: $160 – $180
13. Unimom Minuet – $159
14. Spectra 9: $159 – $194
15. Ameda Mya Joy: $134 – $269
16. Zomee Z2: $189
17. Baby Buddha 2.0 (2024): $189 – $229
18. Philips Avent: $269
19. Medela Swing Maxi: $169 – $279
20. Ameda Mya Joy Plus: $149 – $299
21. Cimilre S5+ (now the S7): $199
22. Annabella: $199 – $379
23. Medela Freestyle Flex: $215 – $349
24. Elvie Stride: $269
25. Medela Freestyle: $270+ (hard to find!)
26. Ardo Alyssa: $285 – $320
27. Spectra Dual Compact: $350

Suction Strength: Single vs. Double Pumping

One of the most asked questions is suction strength. Some pumps are fantastic in single mode but drop off when double pumping – and this is really important to know! For single-pumping suction, the Spectra 9 and Baby Buddha scored high, but once we moved to double pumping, the Spectra Dual Compact and Duette by Legendairy Milk really showed off their power.

Heads up, just because a pump has “high suction” doesn’t mean it’s always the best fit. So if you’re not sure what level you’ll need, try to go with something adjustable.

Cycle Speed (It’s More Important Than You Think!)

Cycle speed is the secret sauce to good pumping. Fast cycle speeds are crucial in stimulation mode to help trigger letdowns, especially if you’re switching pumps. Higher cycle speeds, like those on the Zomee Z2 and NCVI, can be a game changer for faster and more comfortable letdowns.

And fun fact – if you’re switching from something with ultra-high cycles (like the Medela Symphony at 120 cycles per minute) to a slower pump, it might take a while to adjust.

Here is the list of pumps ranked by highest cycle speeds in stimulation mode:

1. Zomee Z2: 220cpm
2. Freemie Liberty: 150 cpm
3. Medela Freestyle: 145cpm
4. Philips Avent: 122 cpm
5. Medela Swing Maxi: 114 cpm
6. Medela Freestyle Flex: 112 cpm
7. iKare: 110 cpm
8. *Ardo Alyssa: 106 cpm
9. Freemie Rose: 101 cpm
10. *Legendairy Milk Duette: 100 cpm
11. Annabella: 100 cpm
12. *Spectra Dual Compact: 98 cpm (expression mode is suuuuper slow at 28cpm)
13. Cimilre S5+ (now the S7): 98 cpm
14. Elvie Stride: 92 cpm
15. Baby Buddah 2.0 (2024): 88 cpm
16. Cimilre E1: 88 cpm
17. Motif Duo: 75 cpm
18. Pumpables Genie Advanced: 70 cpm
19. Spectra 9: 70 cpm
20. Cimilre P1: 64
21. Ameda Mya Joy Plus: 58 cpm

Portability – Size, Weight & Features

The Cimilre E1 and Baby Buddha came in as the smallest pumps (seriously pocket-sized!), making them super portable. Some pumps like the Elvie Stride and Medela Freestyle Flex even come with cups for hands-free use. If you’re on the go, these lightweight pumps can make a huge difference in comfort and ease.

And if you’re someone who likes to clip or wear your pump (or even stash it in a fanny pack), there are options with lanyards, clips, and even app controls for memory functions. I especially like the Pumpables Genie Advanced for its customizable cycle speeds – because who doesn’t love options?

Facebook Group Favorites

In our Facebook poll, Baby Buddha was the clear favorite at 28%! This pump is known for its strong suction and small size – ideal if you need a powerful pump that fits in the palm of your hand. Other popular picks included the Pumpables Genie Advanced (my personal favorite for flexibility) and the Elvie Stride for its discreet, wearable design.

My Ranking of Portable Pumps

Without further ado, here is my ranking of these portable pumps:

Highly recommended

• Pumpables Genie Advanced
• Baby Buddha 2.0 (2024)
• Ardo Alyssa
• Cimilre S5+ (now the S7)
• Zomee Z2

Other good options

1. iKare
2. Medela Freestyle Flex
3. Legendairy Milk Duette
4. Cimilre E1
5. Cimilre P1
6. Spectra 9
7. NCVI Electric
8. NCVI Double Electric

Rarely recommend

1. Spectra Dual Compact
2. Elvie Stride
3. Medela Swing Maxi
4. Motif Duo
5. Ameda Mya Joy

But as always, what works best for you might be different, so don’t feel boxed in by this list! The key is finding a pump that suits your needs.

So… Which Pump Is Right for You?

If you’re new to pumping, don’t feel overwhelmed by the options! Choose a pump that meets your lifestyle and needs. If you’re still unsure, our Facebook group is a great place to ask questions and learn from other pumping moms’ experiences.

Final Thoughts

Testing these pumps has been a wild ride, but I hope this helps you find your ideal match! Happy pumping!