A breast pump is one of the least glamorous pieces of baby kit you will purchase. Nothing makes you feel like a cow being milked than pumping breastmilk for your little one. However, in the last few years, breast pumps have come a long way. They are now better quality, quieter and many come with personalized features. Two of these are the Spectra S1 vs S2, both look small and compact but how do they measure up against each other.
| Title | Price | Prime | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Spectra Baby USA - S1 | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
 | Spectra Baby USA - S2 | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
In this article
The Main Differences Between Spectra S1 vs S2
There are only a few differences between the spectra S1 vs S2. Some have an impact on the use while others are just cosmetic. The differences are:
- The S1 has a fully rechargeable battery which makes it portable. This means that you can pump anywhere, at the park, playgroup or at a friend’s house.
- The S1 is slightly more expensive than the S2, although this would be expected due to the S1s’ rechargeable battery.
- The other difference is the color the S1 comes in white and blue, while the S2 comes in pink and white.
Spectra S1
The Spectra S1 is a hospital-grade breast pump. This means that they are usually one of the most efficient and it is well known that hospital pumps work around 10 times better than the average one you can buy yourself. Although the term hospital grade is not a regulated term meaning that anyone can use it to describe their product. In the case of breast pumps, the term usually means that it is the strongest that you can buy and can be used by multiple people(each with their own accessory kit). The S1 also comes with a fully rechargeable battery which makes it completely portable. It is also quiet and discreet. It can also be used as a single or a double pump.
Spectra S1 Features
The S1 has some fantastic features that have really been thought out by the designers. Besides its fully rechargeable battery, which once charged lasts around 3 hours.
It also comes with adjustable suction levels, this provides a more natural flow of milk. There is a massage mode this mimics the natural suckling of your baby.
This breast pump has a closed system to prevent backflow of milk and it comes with backflow protectors that create a barrier between the tubing and flanges. This feature also ensures that it is safe and hygienic for you and your baby. It gives you the option of being able to sell this product on when you have finished with it.
The S1 comes with a built in nightlight giving you the option of pumping at any time of day or night.
Spectra S1 – What’s in the box?
In the box you will get the following items:
- Pump in soft blue
- 2 x size 28 mm breast shields
- 2 x bottles
- Backflow protectors
- Power cord
There is a range of accessories available from the Spectra website. They include bottles, teats, cool bag with ice pack to store your breast milk and a bag for your breast pump.
Spectra S1 Pros
- Rechargeable
- Fully portable
- Adjustable suction level
- Can be used as a single or double pump
- Closed system
- Hospital grade
- Super quiet
Spectra S1 Cons
- Not very durable
- Terrible customer services
- A little expensive
Spectra S2
The S2 is classed as the same hospital grade pump as the S1. This pump is super quiet meaning that you should be able to pump without disturbing your sleeping baby.
Spectra S2 Features
The Spectra S2 has the same features as the S1 except for the fact that it is not portable as it does not have the rechargeable battery.
It has the adjustable suction level for a more natural flow of milk. It also comes with the massage mode this mimics the suckling of your baby.
It has a closed system to prevent milk getting into the tubes or motor of the pump. It also comes with backflow protectors to protect both you and your baby by making it the most hygienic system.
There is a soft night light built in to the pump so that you can pump at any time day or night.
Spectra S2 – What’s in the box?
This is what you will receive in the box:
- Pump in soft pink
- 2 x size 28 mm breast shields
- 2 x bottles
- Power cord
- Backflow protectors
Spectra S2 Pros
- single/double pump capability
- Super quiet
- Night light built in
- Adjustable suction level
- Hospital grade
- Closed system
Spectra S2 Cons
- Warranty issues
- Not very durable
- Not portable
- Affordable
Pumping Issues
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How often do I need to pump?
Breastfeeding is all about supply and demand. So the more your baby feeds or you pump the more your supply will increase. If you are pumping exclusively or if you are at work during the day, you will need to make sure that you are pumping enough. A minimum of every 3 to 4 hours and more often if your baby is still a newborn.
How long do I need to pump for?
You will need to pump for a good 15 to 20 minutes in order to net a good amount of breast milk.
Where can I store my breast milk while working?
In an ideal situation, your workplace will have a refrigerator with space to store breast milk in an appropriate container. But if not, do not worry. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say it is fine to leave breast milk at room temperature for 4 hours.
To be safe, especially if you work long hours, you would be better to bring a small cooler or insulated bag with an ice pack to keep your milk fresh. You can keep your breast milk safely stored in an insulated bag with ice packs for 24 hours.
FAQ Spectra S1 vs S2
Does the milk go through the tubing like on other pumps?
No, it does not. The S1 and S2 have a closed system this means that no milk flows through the tubes, which are very difficult to clean and sterilized. It also comes with a backflow protector that creates a barrier between the tubing and flanges.
How can you make it a double pump?
There is no adapter needed for either the S1 or S2 to convert from a single to a double pump. There are 2 places to plug the tubes into. You remove the clear plastic top off of the bottom hole on the bottom of the machine. To dual pump simply plug each tube into the holes in the front of the machine.
Are the bottles supplied with the S1 and S2 BPA free?
Yes, all Spectra baby storage containers that come in contact with breast milk are BPA free. So for the spectra S1 vs S2, there is no real difference in the BPA rating.
I am traveling overseas, will the plug still work?
The S1 and S2 pumps are 100-240v dual voltage and are internationally compatible. You will need the plug adapter for the country that you are traveling to.
Spectra S1 vs S2 which comes out on top?
The S1 and S2 are comparable in price. So when considering the Spectra s1 vs s2, which one you chose will depend on your personal circumstances. If you know that you are only ever going to pump at home and will not need the portability factor then go for the S2 and you will also save yourself some money. However, if you have any doubt that you may need to pump on the go then the S1 is the pump for you. Both these pumps are fantastic and come with some features that are really in tune with what pumping moms need and want.
Personally I would go for the Spectra S1 as it gives you all the features of the S2 but with the added extra of being completely portable. It is the breast pump that gives you options just in case you ever need them!
