Spectra S1 vs Spectra S2 Breast Pump Comparison

Note that this post is not sponsored by Spectra or any other entity; the opinions shared here are my own. This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.

In this article, we will compare the Spectra S1 vs Spectra S2 breast pump. We will review the key features of these breast pumps and will point out what they have in common. We will also go over what makes these two pumps different. This article will help an expectant mom-to-be or new mom learn more about these two breast pumps and will help you decide which is the best option for you. As a 7+ year user of Spectra breast pumps (70 months and counting!) for all four of my kids, I have a lot of personal experience and opinions to share on this topic.

Spectra breast pump S1 vs s2 - Similarities and Differences

Spectra Breast Pump S1 vs S2

Spectra Breast Pump S1 vs S2

What the spectra S1 and Spectra S2 breast pumps have in common:

While there are a few key differences, there are many similiarities between these two breast pumps. Here are some of the key features that are common to both the S1 and the S2 breast pumps.

  • Electric - these are electric, not manual, breast pumps. This means you do not have to squeeze anything or manually pump in order to remove milk from your breasts.

  • Single or Double Pumping - both models allow you to pump on one breast at a time or both sides at a time.

  • Night Light - both of these pumps have a handy build-in night light on board the pump. This is great because it provides just enough, but not too much, light for those late night pumping sessions.

  • The Same Customizable Settings - both the Spectra S1 and Spectra S2 breast pumps have customizable settings that allow you to maximize milk output while ensuring comfort. Both pumps have the same two different modes, twelve suction strengths, and six cycle speeds. Not all breast pumps you’ll find on the market allow you this much customization, so it’s great that you can optimize your Spectra pump settings with either model. There is no difference between the settings on the two models.

    (PS - once you decide which Spectra pump is best for you, you’ll definitely want to check out my full article on how to optimize your Spectra pump settings—it’s linked here).

spectra breast pump s2 vs s1

Spectra S1 breast pump (left) and Spectra S2 breast pump (right)

Key differences: spectra S1 vs spectra s2 breast pumps

While there are many similarities, there are three key differences that you should know as we compare these Spectra breast pumps.

  1. Internal Battery - this is the single biggest (and extremely important!) difference between these two Spectra breast pumps. The Spectra S1 has a built-in internal rechargeable battery, where the Spectra S2 does not.

    If you’re not sure what that means or why it matters, keep reading.

    Having internal battery means that the S1 pump does not have to be plugged in to an electrical outlet in order to function. It can pump without being plugged in as long as it is charged. Without an internal battery, the S2 must be plugged in at all times while pumping.

    This is a MASSIVE difference that gives you convenience, portability, and flexibility. Sometimes I want to pump while sitting on the couch or somewhere there may not be an easily accessible outlet. You can do that with the S1. With the Spectra S2, you are limited to pumping within reach of an outlet.

  2. Cost - the Spectra S1 has a higher cost than the Spectra S2 due to having the internal battery. This can certainly be a consideration for some new moms (because let’s be honest, buying all that baby gear is NOT cheap!).

  3. Color - this is not nearly as impactful as the first two differences on this list…but as you will quickly notice from the product photos, the Spectra S1 is blue, while the Spectra S2 is pink.

conclusion

Yup, you’ve guessed it—I have a strong preference for the Spectra S1 over the Spectra S2. The Spectra S1 pump is the one I recommend to all of my friends and family, and I’m thankful to personally use that model. If you can swing the slight extra cost, it is absolutely worth it to have the flexibility and convenience of a portable pump with an internal battery. I’ve pumped in MANY different places where I was unable to find an outlet or didn’t want to be tied to one. Pumping and feeding your baby is already a major time commitment, so why not make it easier on yourself?

Finding the perfect breast pump is ultimately about finding what makes you comfortable, what maximizes your milk output, and what allows you to feed your baby. I’ve been a happy Spectra user for over 7 years and have been very pleased with the quality, durability (yes, I’ve dropped my pump!), and efficiency. Spectra makes great pumps (and no, I’m not being paid to say that!).

As easy to use as Spectra breast pumps are, wearable breast pumps provide even more convenience and flexibility than the Spectra S1. I also own and use both the Momcozy S12 Pro and the Elvie pump, and I’ve done review articles on both of them. I’ll link them here for you. (Momcozy S12 Pro Breast Pump Review; Elvie Breast Pump Review)

I wish you all the best on your pumping journey!

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