Looking at getting a breast pump but wondering whether to get the Spectra S1 Plus or the Spectra S2 Plus? This guide gives you a comparison of the Spectra S1 vs S2 so you can make the best decision for you.
Which is better, Spectra S1 or S2?
The Spectra S1 Plus is better, in my opinion, because it gives you more freedom since it is rechargeable. If you think you will need a portable breast pump at any time during your breastfeeding journey, get the S1 Plus.
The rechargeable battery gives you the freedom to pump away from a power source for up to 3-4 full pumping sessions, great for power pumping. The Spectra S1 Plus is worth the extra cost for the rechargeable battery.
Spectra S1 vs S2 comparison chart
Spectra S1 Plus
- Breastfeeding Essentials: Spectra S1 portable breast pump features...
- Travel Baby Supplies: Portable and rechargeable electric breast pump...
- Single or Double Pumping: Use as a single electric breast pump or a...
The Spectra S1 Plus is a hospital-grade single or double breast pump. It comes with a 12-volt ac power adaptor, 2 wide neck bottles, 2 spectra backflow protectors, 2 duckbill valves, 2 spectra tubing, and 4 flanges ((2) 24mm and (2) 28mm).
It is a closed pumping system, meaning the narrow tubing remains dry and keeps breast milk free from bacteria, mold, and viruses. It has an auto-timer with display, is ultra-quiet, rechargeable, and portable, has a massage mode, adjustable suction levels, and a backflow protector.
The built-in night light allows you to pump at any hour. It only weighs 3.3 lbs., making it very convenient. This pump has a max suction strength of 270mmhg. The suction strength is adjustable in both the let-down and expression modes. The massage mode stimulates the natural suckling of a baby.
All plastic or silicone parts that come in contact with breast milk are made with BPA-free material.
Pros
- Rechargeable Battery Built-In
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Adjustable Suction Strength
Cons
- Expensive
- May not be covered by insurance
Spectra S2 Plus
- Breastfeeding Essentials: Spectra S2 portable breast pump features...
- Personalized Breast Pump Settings: Adjust Spectra breast pump settings...
- Single or Double Pumping: Use as a single electric breast pump or a...
The Spectra S2 Plus breast pump is a closed pumping system. It has an auto-timer with a digital display so you can set and keep track of how long you pump for. It has an ultra-quiet monitor, massage mode, adjustable suction levels, and a backflow protector.
The Spectra S2 Plus comes with a 12-volt ac power adaptor, 2 wide neck bottles, 2 spectra backflow protectors, 2 duckbill valves, 2 spectra tubing, and 4 flanges ((2) 24mm and (2) 28mm).
The natural nursing technology allows for comfortable suction levels that mimic natural breastfeeding. You can adjust the suction levels in the expression and massage modes to fit your personal preference and comfort level.
This breast pump can be used as a single or double electric breast pump. All of the pump parts that come in contact with breast milk are BPA and DEHP-free. The unit weighs 3 lbs.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Adjustable Suction Levels
- Usually Covered by Insurance
Cons
- It needs to be plugged in
- No Battery Available
FAQ’s for Spectra Breast Pumps
1. How are the Spectra S1 Plus and Spectra S2 Plus models similar?
Both pumps have these key features:
- Ultra-Quiet Motor
- Massage Mode and Expression Mode
- Adjustable Suction Levels
- Night Light
- Auto-Timer with Display
- Closed System Pump
- Backflow Protector
- 2-year Warranty on Pump
- Single or Double Pump Capability
- Size Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.9 x 6.7 inches
2. How are the Spectra S1 Plus and the Spectra S2 Plus models different?
One of the differences between the S1 and the S2 is the color. The S1 is blue, and the S2 is pink. The other main difference between the two pumps and the extra cost on the S1 is the rechargeable battery.
The S1 comes with a rechargeable battery, so it gives you the freedom of being able to pump anywhere. You can get about 3-4 full pumping sessions out of it before it needs to be recharged. The Spectra S2 must plug in to use; it does not have a battery.
3. Why get a Spectra Breast Pump?
Spectra Baby USA is owned and run by board-certified lactation consultants and registered nurses who are also all moms. It is a mommy-owned company providing you with products that support you in your journey of breastfeeding. They are committed to being there for you every step of the way.
One of the great features of any Spectra pump is that they have Natural Nursing Technology. Natural Nursing Technology allows the pump to mimic the natural breastfeeding experience as closely as possible. The pumps are super quiet, and you can adjust the suction levels for a more comfortable pumping experience.
4. How do the Spectra pumps compare to Medela pumps?
Most moms that have tried both Medela pumps and Spectra pumps prefer the Spectra pumps. Spectra breast pumps are a lot quieter, making it easy to pump at night or when the baby is napping. They are also more than half the weight of most Medela pumps, so they can easily travel with or take to work.
The best thing about Spectra pumps vs. Medela pumps is that the Spectra pumps have adjustable suction levels. This makes the pump more customizable for each mother and leads to a more comfortable pumping experience.
The spectra pumps also have a digital timer and automatic shutoff capability.
5. Should I buy the S1 or S2?
The Spectra S1 Plus is worth the extra cost for the rechargeable battery. However, if you know that you will always be near a power source and don’t mind plugging in for every pumping session, the Spectra S2 Plus will work just fine. I like the portability of the S1 and like knowing that I could pump without plugging in when I need to. I recommend getting the S1 over the S2.
6. How long does it take to charge Spectra S1?
The Spectra S1 takes about 4 hours to charge fully. A battery indicator that displays 4 bars means there are approximately 3 hours of operating time; 1 bar indicates 1 hour of operating time left. When the battery indicator is flashing, you have about 20 mins of operating time left.
7. Does insurance cover a Spectra breast pump?
Your insurance provider will cover a breast pump at no cost to you. You can find out what breast pump you are allowed through your insurance provider with these insurance look-up tools.
With Edgepark, you enter where you live and your insurance provider then you see the breast pumps available to you.
Aeroflow is another site that will tell you what breast pumps your insurance provider covers, as well as some other motherhood essentials.
Or you can use the Spectra insurance look-up tool to see if your insurance provider will cover a Spectra Breast Pump.
8. Can you sterilize pump parts in a bottle sterilizer?
Yes, you can sterilize pump parts in a microwavable sanitizing bag or a microwave sterilizer or electric steamer sanitizer for bottles. Be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations on the sterilizer.
9. Are the Spectra pumps hospital-grade pumps?
The term ‘hospital-grade pump’ does not have a universal definition that the FDA recognizes. Traditionally hospital-grade pumps are extremely bulky, heavy, expensive, and can be used by multiple users.
Spectra considers their pumps hospital-grade because they can be used by multiple users and can support a need to pump frequently for an extended amount of time. They are also way more portable and affordable for home use than the ones used in a hospital.
Spectra pump parts and accessories
Spectra Duckbill Valve Set
- Breast Pump Compatibility: Spectra duckbill valve compatible with...
- Spectra Pump Part for Baby Feeding: This breastfeeding support part is...
- Easy to Clean Breast Feeding Supplies: Wash Spectra pump part after...
For optimal use, Spectra recommends replacing your pump parts every 3-6 months. This valve set is designed for maximum suction so you can get better output during breast pumping sessions. They are easy to clean and maintain.
These valves are BPA-free and compatible with the Spectra S1 Plus, Spectra S2 Plus, Spectra 9 Plus, M1 pump, and DEW 350.
Spectra Premium Accessory Kit
- Breast Pump Compatibility: Spectra breastfeeding supplies compatible...
- Easy to Clean Breastfeeding Essentials: Wash Spectra pump parts after...
- BPA/DEHP Free: All Spectra breastfeeding supplies that come in contact...
This kit is great if you need to replace your original Spectra parts or want an extra set to keep at work. The kit includes one 24mm flange, one 5 oz Spectra bottle with lid, disk, nipple, and cap, one duckbill valve, one backflow protector, and one tubing.
It is compatible with the Spectra S1, S2, S9 and M1 pumps.
Note: This is only one set, if you are double breast pumping, you will need 2 sets.
Spectra Backflow Protector
- Breast Pump Compatibility: Spectra backflow protector compatible with...
- Easy to Clean Baby Feeding Supplies: Wash Spectra pump part after each...
- Barrier for Safe Breast Feeding: Creates a physical barrier, ensuring...
One backflow protector compatible with Spectra S1, S2, S9, and M1 pumps. The backflow protector creates a physical barrier between your milk and the pump motor.
Spectra recommends replacing your backflow protector every 3-4 months to ensure your breastmilk is free of outside contaminants. They are BPA and DEHP-free. This is only 1 set: it includes 1 silicone membrane, 1 uppercase, and one lowercase. If you are double pumping, you will need 2 sets.
Spectra Breastshield Set Small 20mm
- Compatibility: This set can be used with the following breast pumps:...
- Easy Cleaning: Wash Spectra pump parts after each use with warm soapy...
- BPA/DEHP Free: All Spectra pump parts that come in contact with breast...
This set comes with tubing, one small flange 20mm, a backflow protector, and one duckbill valve. It is compatible with the Spectra S1, S2, S9, and M5 pumps. Most pumps come with a 24mm and 28mm flange, so if you need to use a small one, this is the kit for you. Note this is only one set, so if you are double pumping, you will need to get 2 sets.
Spectra Breast Flange replacement 20mm
If you have plenty of pump parts and just need a smaller flange you can get this flange replacement. It is only one 20mm breast flange, so if you are double pumping you will need to buy 2.
They are easy to clean and BPA-free. This flange is compatible with Spectra S1, S2, S9, DEW 350, and Spectra M2 pumps. It is a wide neck to fit the spectra wide neck bottles.
How do you find out your flange size?
To get your flange size: Measure your nipple diameter in mm from the base to base.
Up to 16mm nipple use 20mm flange.
Up to 20mm nipple use 24mm flange.
Up to 24mm nipple use 28mm flange.
Up to 28mm nipple use 32mm flange.
12-Volt Car Vehicle Adapter
- Compatibility: 12V Power Charger for New Spectra S1 S2 (Made After Feb...
- Length of the cord: 8-foot / Output: 12V DC, 2A fuse (Do not use it...
- Certified Safe: Tbuymax's Multi-Protect safety system ensures complete...
Works for Spectra S1 and S2 Breast pumps made after Feb 2015. The length of the cord is 8ft. This adapter is perfect for the moms on the go who want to pump while driving or traveling.
Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump
- Award winning, best-selling, nursing mom and lactation consultant...
- Patented design. Pat. No. USD810,925S. Distributed by Haakaa USA....
- Material: 100% food grade silicone. Soft and comfortable. BPA PVC and...
Stop losing milk into a breast pad while you nurse or pump on only one side. If you only pump one side at a time or nursing, you need one of these!
This manual pump suctions to your breast that you aren’t pumping or nursing from and catches all the milk during let down. These are a must-have for nursing and pumping mothers. Easy to clean and made from 100% food-grade silicone, BPA, and PVC-free.
Spectra cooler bag kit
- Protection & Capacity: Spectra cooler kit with reusable freezer pack...
- Compact & Discreet: An insulated interior with a sleek and simple...
- Easy Maintenance: This Spectra cooler provides easy to clean Spectra...
Includes an ice pack and 2 bottles. This cooler bag will hold up to 6 wide-neck bottles. Perfect for keeping the milk pumped during work cold so you can bring it back home. Note: bottles do not come with nipples, only the lid, and cap.
Spectra Bottle Adapter for Narrow Bottles
- Compatibility: If you're using narrow necked bottles with our wide...
- Lightweight and Compact: Convenient for moms with extra bottles,...
- BPA/DEHP Free: All Spectra pump parts that come in contact with breast...
If you have the wide-neck shield but need to use narrow-necked bottles, this adapter is for you. You attach the adapter to the wide-neck shield and then attach the narrow-necked bottles to the adapter.
This can save you time, so you don’t have to transfer milk and clean the same bottle after every pumping session. You can pump directly into the bottles you are using. This adapter will fit most standard narrow-necked bottles.
Hermitshell Travel case for S1 and S2 breast pump
- Hermitshell Hard Travel Storage Carrying Case
- Protect your favorite device from bumps dents and scratches
- Made to fit Spectra Baby USA S1 Plus / S2 Plus Premier Electric Breast...
Protect your breast pump during travel with this hardshell travel storage case. It fits the S1 and S2 breast pumps and their accessories. The velcro divider is movable, so you can organize it the way you want. This is the perfect case for transporting your Spectra breast pump. It also comes in a variety of colors.
Conclusion
Spectra S1 vs S2: The Difference
The Spectra S1 and S2 Breast Pumps are very similar in all of their key features. They both have adjustable suction, a built-in night light, ultra-quiet motor, single and double breast pumping capability, and have different modes.
The main difference aside from the color is the rechargeable battery which is only available on the S1 Plus. The S2 Plus needs to be plugged in for every pumping session. The freedom to pump 3-4 full sessions away from a power source is perfect for the everyday mother, so I think the S1 Plus is the better choice.
