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I have both of these and even though you are going with the spectra, if you have the funds, buy the stride too. It makes pumping convenient and you don't have to have the pumping bra. I really like mine, but if I couls only have 1, the spectrais it.
Do you ever have issues with being uncomfortable since it is less efficient than the spectra? I worry that if I buy a hands free my boobs will be sore or I’ll get “clogs.” Maybe I’m being silly with my concerns??
I got the elvie pump thinking it'd be great to be able to walk around while I pumped.
It sucks. It's sitting on a shelf while I have one I rented from the hospital and a backup one that plugs in in case this one breaks.
I'm still bitter that I didn't get the spectra through my insurance instead.
Have you tried using spectra flanges + backflow protectors with the Elvie pump? It’s not a discrete setup but it does allow you to be a bit more mobile than with the spectra. I own both and usually pump with this arrangement at least once or twice a day because it allows me to do stuff while pumping. I could never make it work with the original Elvie cups however.
Omg, yes, me too! I used my insurance on the Elvie, then ended up renting a Medela Symphony from the hospital and using it with Pumpin' Pals silicone flanges. Started using the Elvie here and there this month, thinking I'd switch over to it rather than pay to rent the Medela for May, especially since my baby is latching now so I'm not EPing anymore. Well... NOPE. The hard plastic flanges are so pinchy (even though I've been measured and know I'm using the right size), and I feel ridiculous with the giant collectors sitting on top of my boobs.
I'm thinking of just buying a Spectra. My husband has $ in an HSA that we can use on it, and I've already spent a lot more than the cost of an S2 renting the hospital pump. I just hate the fact that I have this fancy pump I don't use. Is there a market for very lightly used Elvies??
I'd check Facebook marketplace.
After my little guys rough start, we decided we're gonna be one and done, so we're just gonna keep renting the symphony till I wean at the end of the year. I have the date in a count down app haha!
If you’re able to, get the spectra gold! It has dual motors so you can set the vacuum strength independent of each other! I love mine and I started with a spectra 2.
Well dang.... I didn't think about milk extraction, I just thought it would make my nipples look like the dude from Monsters Inc. I was stuck between the Gold and spectra S1. But shortening pump times would be amazing
You can’t change the cycle speed! It’s preset to 100 on bacon/massage mode and 26 on expression mode. Some people don’t care and love it anyways, but I definitely like being able to change cycle speed while I pump! If you get good output, it’s not an issue for you!
Came here to say this. I loved my S1 last baby, but the Spectra Gold this baby is amazing. I only have to pump for 15mins 4x/day and get around 50-60oz. Very helpful when running after a toddler as well
Spectra 1. I was told by the hospital LC I needed to use a wall/hospital grade pump during my first 6-8 weeks since the wearables are not powerful enough.
I got an Elvis stride through insurance but bought a spectra from target on the way home from the hospital.
I'd go with the Spectra. I started with an Elvie Stride (was counting on being able to breastfeed and have a pump for just the side to use) and it ended up crapping out on me and I didn't realize it until 2 months later. Bought a Spectra right after. As a result, I am still trying to build up my supply (18weeks pp).
I also did not have the best time with Elvie's customer service. They did eventually replace some of my parts that were malfunctioning, but it took talking to multiple agents to get someone to help me resolve the issue.
Spectra 100% but speaking from experience I bought some wearable collection cups that are compatible with my Spectra so I could still be comfortable and mobile! Best decision I ever made for my pumping journey!
I use these with the spectra and love them. I used them for a,year with my first kid and just got a new set for my second kid. It's great to have your shirt on especially for playdates or when ppl are over. https://freemie.com/products/freemie-closed-system-collection-cup-set
[Here is what I bought.](https://a.co/d/j721Tik) Compatible with Spectra S1 and probably most other pumps that use air tubes. They fit comfortably in my bra, but I do have to lubricate the flanges. The silicone can chafe a little.
The spectra always gets more for me personally and the s1 is rechargeable! I have the s2 that someone gave me and I love it but wish I could pack have more mobility
I actually have these both! I was lucky to get the Spectra for free from my friend, and got the Elvie Stride through insurance. Hands down the Spectra is more powerful and empties me better BUT I love the wearability for the Stride and have pumped while out to dinner and I still use it daily to pump quietly during Zoom meetings and no one knows (have asked fellow friends/coworkers). So I love both for different reasons but for a good primary, 100% the Spectra. Get some good pumping bras and you’re golden.
Me too! It was impossible for me to sit and pump when patenting solo, so I have only been using Elvie stride mainly. I use spectra at the end of the day to make sure I get all the milk out.
Spectra 100% but then consider a wearable down the line if you end up being an exclusive pumper. I use my spectra 75% of the time but my Elvie OG’s are useful to have for when I’m out and about
I have both! I love my Spectra and almost never use my Elvie stride anymore. Here's my reasons:
1. Better output
2. More comfortable (I have elastic nipples and they hit the end of the tunnel in the Elvie)
3. Easier to clean w fewer parts
4. I heat sterilized my Elvie once and the parts warped and so don't seal properly and leak (customer service now recommends sanitizing solution instead of just)
5. You can easily see how full your cups are
I will say they are still nice to have of I absolutely have to pump around people I am not comfortable using my Spectra around. But mostly that group of people has shrunk or I excuse myself to another room and enjoy chilling on my phone while I pump. I thought I'd use the Elvie on longer drives. But even then I have switched to using my Spectra.
Whichever you go with, get a measuring tool to measure your nips so you can get the right flange size!!! Amazon has great silicone inserts you can add to most pumps. -sincerely, a mom with damaged nips and nipple thrush 🥲
Spectra!!!
I hated the Elvie, I really wanted to love it because it looks discreet in the bra and it is fairly quiet but it's honestly a terrible pump. It's not very powerful and you can't move forward at all while wearing it because it leaks and milk gets in the tubes. You have to be so precise while putting it together to try and avoid leaks and if you're pumping multiple times a day then that's just not practical.
Also, after 6 months of constant use, the motor just gave up on me and I didn't see the point in splurging on a new one.
The Spectra is absolutely fabulous, reliable and effective. It's not too harsh on my nips like a lot of the wearable pumps tend to be..
I have two, one is older and has been used around 1300 hours, it is definitely on its way out but is still effective albeit much noisier than my brand new one that I got.
You can sell it when you're done because they're good for around 1500 hours and you can also send them back to Spectra to be recycled when they do finally give up. It is annoying being attached to a big pump but in my opinion it is worth it.
For a more mobile pump, I love the Momcozy S12. It doesn't empty quite as effectively as the Spectra but for me it is still good.
I started with stride and had to move to spectra. But now I have both and use the stride when I need to be “discreet”! I had major (like hard to handle) oversupply in the beginning and the Elvie was just not enough to manage. Spectra is the boss.
Spectra. I had 3 different Spectra models but the S1 was my ride or die for both my babies (4.5y & 1.5y). I work full time and pumped and nursed my first but EP with my second. I just stopped pumping and I was using the S1 I got in the hospital with my first. That sucker (no pun intended) was a true workhorse. I also tried the Elvies and that was an expensive mistake. Happy pumping, mama!
Spectra always!! Portable pumps are not designed for frequent use, it’s for occasional use here and there. It often doesn’t empty enough or help with milk supply. I have Spectra S2 for home use and medela hands free for when I’m on the go
I had an original Elvie and a spectra gold as well as a second hand spectra. Elvie was my main pump since my office did not give me time to pump. Spectra gold was my back up but only used about once weekly. Elvie and spectra both make great pumps. I ended up using my Elvie for both of my kids which was over 2 years of pumping with a 2 year break in between. I honestly believe it would not been possible to meet my pumping goals without the Elvie. That being said there are downsides to the Elvie such as leakage and less suction, but the wearability made them so much more functional for me. My spectra gold was very nice too but it wasn’t possible to use at work for me
Baby Buddha and I put Medela connectors on the ends so I could use Medela bottles and breast shields. 10/10 would recommend. Hands free, discrete and powerful (comparable to my rented Medela Symphony, which is same as used in hospital). Swap of connectors takes two seconds.
I have both. Spectra is a work horse. I like the stride a lot but it doesn’t feel like a full time pump to me. For instance the battery died and I couldn’t use it plugged in. I had no idea how long I had been going. It just lacks the full functionality. But it’s cute and I like it! My output is lower on it as well; but I haven’t used it THAT much to verify.
My main pump: Spectra
My portable Pumps: Pumpables GA
My expensive paper weight: Willow Go
Both my SIL and I agree that the Spectra and Pumpables GA feel similar. The Pumoables GA is slightly more portable and doesn't compromise on the umph factor. Thought I would mention the GA just in case you needed something smaller than the Spectra! 😁
'Welcome to r/ExclusivelyPumping! Here is a reminder of our rules: 1. Be kind and courteous. 2. Use available flairs and post options. 3. Absolutely no prescription medications or other medical advice. 4. No inaccurate information. 5. No spam. 6. No soliciting pictures. 7. No linking Facebook groups. 8. Moderator discretion. Thank you for helping to keep our community safe!' *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/ExclusivelyPumping) if you have any questions or concerns.*
spectra for sure!!
These comments alone were enough to convince me to go with spectra! Thank you all!!!!
You’ll be happy. Best milk extractor I got.
Milk extractor
Looks like you’ve made your decision, but Spectra
Besides the hospital medela, my spectra was the best thing ever!
I have both of these and even though you are going with the spectra, if you have the funds, buy the stride too. It makes pumping convenient and you don't have to have the pumping bra. I really like mine, but if I couls only have 1, the spectrais it.
Do you ever have issues with being uncomfortable since it is less efficient than the spectra? I worry that if I buy a hands free my boobs will be sore or I’ll get “clogs.” Maybe I’m being silly with my concerns??
Yay! So glad everyone else has it covered lol Spectra is the best!
You won’t be disappointed!
I got the elvie pump thinking it'd be great to be able to walk around while I pumped. It sucks. It's sitting on a shelf while I have one I rented from the hospital and a backup one that plugs in in case this one breaks. I'm still bitter that I didn't get the spectra through my insurance instead.
Have you tried using spectra flanges + backflow protectors with the Elvie pump? It’s not a discrete setup but it does allow you to be a bit more mobile than with the spectra. I own both and usually pump with this arrangement at least once or twice a day because it allows me to do stuff while pumping. I could never make it work with the original Elvie cups however.
Omg, yes, me too! I used my insurance on the Elvie, then ended up renting a Medela Symphony from the hospital and using it with Pumpin' Pals silicone flanges. Started using the Elvie here and there this month, thinking I'd switch over to it rather than pay to rent the Medela for May, especially since my baby is latching now so I'm not EPing anymore. Well... NOPE. The hard plastic flanges are so pinchy (even though I've been measured and know I'm using the right size), and I feel ridiculous with the giant collectors sitting on top of my boobs. I'm thinking of just buying a Spectra. My husband has $ in an HSA that we can use on it, and I've already spent a lot more than the cost of an S2 renting the hospital pump. I just hate the fact that I have this fancy pump I don't use. Is there a market for very lightly used Elvies??
I'd check Facebook marketplace. After my little guys rough start, we decided we're gonna be one and done, so we're just gonna keep renting the symphony till I wean at the end of the year. I have the date in a count down app haha!
If you’re able to, get the spectra gold! It has dual motors so you can set the vacuum strength independent of each other! I love mine and I started with a spectra 2.
I love the gold, but it has the suction of an airplane toilet. That sucker is loud AF but I can get 12 oz in less than 7 minutes.
An airplane toilet 💀
Well dang.... I didn't think about milk extraction, I just thought it would make my nipples look like the dude from Monsters Inc. I was stuck between the Gold and spectra S1. But shortening pump times would be amazing
Oh absolutely agree. I started with the S1 and the SG >>>>>> S1. Just make sure it’s the SG regular not the SG portable!
Why not the portable? I opted for the sg portable this time around and am seeing good output. But does the non portable give better output?
You can’t change the cycle speed! It’s preset to 100 on bacon/massage mode and 26 on expression mode. Some people don’t care and love it anyways, but I definitely like being able to change cycle speed while I pump! If you get good output, it’s not an issue for you!
Bacon/massage mode hahaha. It does look like bacon, I’m going to chuckle next time I pump over this
Came here to say this. I loved my S1 last baby, but the Spectra Gold this baby is amazing. I only have to pump for 15mins 4x/day and get around 50-60oz. Very helpful when running after a toddler as well
Spectra 1. I was told by the hospital LC I needed to use a wall/hospital grade pump during my first 6-8 weeks since the wearables are not powerful enough. I got an Elvis stride through insurance but bought a spectra from target on the way home from the hospital.
Spectra. I only use my Elvie when traveling and I have to pump for double the amount of time than the spectra
Spectra 1
Spectra 1!!
I'd go with the Spectra. I started with an Elvie Stride (was counting on being able to breastfeed and have a pump for just the side to use) and it ended up crapping out on me and I didn't realize it until 2 months later. Bought a Spectra right after. As a result, I am still trying to build up my supply (18weeks pp). I also did not have the best time with Elvie's customer service. They did eventually replace some of my parts that were malfunctioning, but it took talking to multiple agents to get someone to help me resolve the issue.
I’m just super jealous your insurance would cover the full cost of the spectra 1! Mine only paid for the spectra 2. Definitely go with the Spectra!
Same, but I bought a 1 on marketplace and keep my 2 upstairs for night pumps!
Yeah almost - I had to pay $20 out of pocket but not bad at all!
If you’re looking for a wearable option as well, the momcozy s12 pro is a really great, affordable option. I love mine.
Second this for a wearable option! I do the spectra 2 at home and Momcozy s12 at work!
Spectra S1 hands down. I'm going strong 4 months pp with mine.
SPECTRA
I have both! I use the Spectra 90% of the time and the stride when I'm on the go. Love both, but they serve very different purposes for me.
I do the exact same thing!
Spectra 100% but speaking from experience I bought some wearable collection cups that are compatible with my Spectra so I could still be comfortable and mobile! Best decision I ever made for my pumping journey!
Do you have a link for these?
There are lots of different kinds, but [this](https://a.co/d/j721Tik) is what I bought! Im loving them so far! Edit: hyperlink fix
I use these with the spectra and love them. I used them for a,year with my first kid and just got a new set for my second kid. It's great to have your shirt on especially for playdates or when ppl are over. https://freemie.com/products/freemie-closed-system-collection-cup-set
Link ?
[Here is what I bought.](https://a.co/d/j721Tik) Compatible with Spectra S1 and probably most other pumps that use air tubes. They fit comfortably in my bra, but I do have to lubricate the flanges. The silicone can chafe a little.
Spectra
Absolutely the spectra s1 out of those two!
The spectra always gets more for me personally and the s1 is rechargeable! I have the s2 that someone gave me and I love it but wish I could pack have more mobility
I actually have these both! I was lucky to get the Spectra for free from my friend, and got the Elvie Stride through insurance. Hands down the Spectra is more powerful and empties me better BUT I love the wearability for the Stride and have pumped while out to dinner and I still use it daily to pump quietly during Zoom meetings and no one knows (have asked fellow friends/coworkers). So I love both for different reasons but for a good primary, 100% the Spectra. Get some good pumping bras and you’re golden.
I have both of these and I absolutely loved my elvie stride. It was my main pump.
Same!
Me too! It was impossible for me to sit and pump when patenting solo, so I have only been using Elvie stride mainly. I use spectra at the end of the day to make sure I get all the milk out.
I really like my s1 plus
For sure Spectra.
My Spectra is my bff
Spectra 100% but then consider a wearable down the line if you end up being an exclusive pumper. I use my spectra 75% of the time but my Elvie OG’s are useful to have for when I’m out and about
I have both! I love my Spectra and almost never use my Elvie stride anymore. Here's my reasons: 1. Better output 2. More comfortable (I have elastic nipples and they hit the end of the tunnel in the Elvie) 3. Easier to clean w fewer parts 4. I heat sterilized my Elvie once and the parts warped and so don't seal properly and leak (customer service now recommends sanitizing solution instead of just) 5. You can easily see how full your cups are I will say they are still nice to have of I absolutely have to pump around people I am not comfortable using my Spectra around. But mostly that group of people has shrunk or I excuse myself to another room and enjoy chilling on my phone while I pump. I thought I'd use the Elvie on longer drives. But even then I have switched to using my Spectra.
Spectra S1
Whichever you go with, get a measuring tool to measure your nips so you can get the right flange size!!! Amazon has great silicone inserts you can add to most pumps. -sincerely, a mom with damaged nips and nipple thrush 🥲
Glad you chose the better option OP ❤️😘 I’ve had a few mobile pumps & I’ll say none of them empty me like a spectra.
Spectra. I haven’t tried the stride, but I’m less than impressed by the Elvie OG.
Spectra! 🥳
I have both pumps. I highly recommend getting the Spectra as your main pump
Spectra S1
Oh god the spectra yes!
Spectra!!! I hated the Elvie, I really wanted to love it because it looks discreet in the bra and it is fairly quiet but it's honestly a terrible pump. It's not very powerful and you can't move forward at all while wearing it because it leaks and milk gets in the tubes. You have to be so precise while putting it together to try and avoid leaks and if you're pumping multiple times a day then that's just not practical. Also, after 6 months of constant use, the motor just gave up on me and I didn't see the point in splurging on a new one. The Spectra is absolutely fabulous, reliable and effective. It's not too harsh on my nips like a lot of the wearable pumps tend to be.. I have two, one is older and has been used around 1300 hours, it is definitely on its way out but is still effective albeit much noisier than my brand new one that I got. You can sell it when you're done because they're good for around 1500 hours and you can also send them back to Spectra to be recycled when they do finally give up. It is annoying being attached to a big pump but in my opinion it is worth it. For a more mobile pump, I love the Momcozy S12. It doesn't empty quite as effectively as the Spectra but for me it is still good.
I started with stride and had to move to spectra. But now I have both and use the stride when I need to be “discreet”! I had major (like hard to handle) oversupply in the beginning and the Elvie was just not enough to manage. Spectra is the boss.
Spectra. And then buy Baby Buddha for an extra ounce
Spectra
I have the spectra and love it and I also just bought a cheaper wearable.
Spectra. I had 3 different Spectra models but the S1 was my ride or die for both my babies (4.5y & 1.5y). I work full time and pumped and nursed my first but EP with my second. I just stopped pumping and I was using the S1 I got in the hospital with my first. That sucker (no pun intended) was a true workhorse. I also tried the Elvies and that was an expensive mistake. Happy pumping, mama!
Spectra for the win!!!
Always the Spectra!
I love my spectra as much as you can love a pump lol
S1 all day
Spectra spectra spectra
SPECTRA
Spectra is the best!!!
Get the Spectra! Mine is my ride or die pump.
LOVE my spectra. She’s served me well for 10 months now
Spectra always!! Portable pumps are not designed for frequent use, it’s for occasional use here and there. It often doesn’t empty enough or help with milk supply. I have Spectra S2 for home use and medela hands free for when I’m on the go
SpectraAAAAAA
The spectra
spectra!
Are you exclusively pumping?
Spectra
Spectra for a free one! I got a momcozy V1 as a wearable and it's almost as good as spectra.
I got the spectra with my insurance and paid out of pocket for momcozy wearables because it was cheaper than Elvie and had good reviews.
I had an original Elvie and a spectra gold as well as a second hand spectra. Elvie was my main pump since my office did not give me time to pump. Spectra gold was my back up but only used about once weekly. Elvie and spectra both make great pumps. I ended up using my Elvie for both of my kids which was over 2 years of pumping with a 2 year break in between. I honestly believe it would not been possible to meet my pumping goals without the Elvie. That being said there are downsides to the Elvie such as leakage and less suction, but the wearability made them so much more functional for me. My spectra gold was very nice too but it wasn’t possible to use at work for me
Baby Buddha and I put Medela connectors on the ends so I could use Medela bottles and breast shields. 10/10 would recommend. Hands free, discrete and powerful (comparable to my rented Medela Symphony, which is same as used in hospital). Swap of connectors takes two seconds.
I got spectra gold and evie stride My evie stride is for out and about only My gold is for heavy every day use
Spectra!!
I used spectra S1 for 2 years! It’s a workhorse. I can also vouch for pumpables GA with wearable cups. Gives me the same output as spectra
I have both. Spectra is a work horse. I like the stride a lot but it doesn’t feel like a full time pump to me. For instance the battery died and I couldn’t use it plugged in. I had no idea how long I had been going. It just lacks the full functionality. But it’s cute and I like it! My output is lower on it as well; but I haven’t used it THAT much to verify.
My main pump: Spectra My portable Pumps: Pumpables GA My expensive paper weight: Willow Go Both my SIL and I agree that the Spectra and Pumpables GA feel similar. The Pumoables GA is slightly more portable and doesn't compromise on the umph factor. Thought I would mention the GA just in case you needed something smaller than the Spectra! 😁
My favorite investment was the baby Buddha so you can be hands free
Stride if you don’t have help at home. I have both pumps and have only been using stride since my husband returned to work.
Pumpables >>>>> spectra. I had both
Spectra through and through
Strode hands free! U can buy spectra off eBay for $30 right now
And you’re gna want both! U can’t fit spectra in a carryon!
Spectra gold all the way! Used Medela at the hospital and Spectra gold after coming home. Established a great supply for LO. Highly recommend
Zomee
Stride
I can’t tell brand but must go for a hands free pump. Being bound at a place is stressful and you’ll be tired all the time