As an IBCLC in Calgary, Alberta, I constantly get asked what my favourite pump is, especially by parents who are tired of underperforming wearable pumps. The Spectra S1/S2 entered Canada with an established cult following that has them selling out in 2 days.

However it’s important to remember that not every pump is a good pump for every mom. So let’s get into what makes this pump different from others and help you decide if it’s worth the hype.

The Pumping Landscape in Canada Has Changed

For years, Canadian parents didn’t have access to a reliable primary breast pump. Families were left choosing bad and worse, or renting. While there were a couple decent pumps like the original pump in style, they had their flaws. For example, the original pumpkin style was an open system pump and was known for getting mould behind the panel.

Most pumps currently available for purchase in Canada would be considered secondary pumps. That means that they are a back up pump for when you are unable to use your workhorse of a primary pump. If you are exclusively breastfeeding a healthy baby with a effective latch, they are considered your ”primary pump” so a secondary pump purchased from the store could be a workable option. However, as most new moms quickly find out breastfeeding does not come easy for most.

What’s The Difference Between S1 vs S2?

These are essentially the same pump. The only difference is the power source.

Spectra S1 (Blue) → Rechargeable battery (portable)
Spectra S2 (Pink) → Must be plugged in (non-portable)

A simple way to remember it:

Blue = Battery
Pink = Plug-in

Both are closed-system, single-user pumps.

Is It As Good As A Hospital Grade Pump?

Did you know that the hospital grade pump is only a marketing term? It is not a protected term so any pump company can slap the term on their box to make a dollar. The correct terminology for a rental pump like the Medela Symphony would be a multi user pump. A multi-user pump is a pump that has received FDA approval to be used between users. It has a filter built into the pump and has been tested to hold up to extensive hours of use. Personal pumps on the other hand are only tested for a couple minutes and are limited in their battery life. Some other multi-user pumps included the Ameda Platinum (available in some Canadian cities), and the Spectra S3 (green) which is not yet in Canada.

Why the Spectra Pump Is So Popular?

1. Strong, Reliable Suction:

Spectra is known for consistent suction strength that supports milk removal without feeling overly harsh for most users. Its motor lasts significantly longer than other personal pumps and holds up to heavy duty use. This can be compared to wearables that consistently die by 6 months of regular use.

2. Customizable Settings:

This pump allows you to adjust vacuum strength and cycle speed with minimal affect on the other and with several levels between each setting. This allows for you the find an optimal setting for your body. It also doesn’t focus on a bunch of gimicy modes. They have stayed true to stimulation and expression, mimicking what a baby actually does.

3. Gentle “Vibration-Style” Rhythm

Many parents describe Spectra suction as more rhythmic or “vibratory,” which can support letdown for some bodies more comfortably than sharper push/pull suction styles.

4. Closed System Design

A built-in diaphragm prevents milk from entering tubing or motor parts, making it a safer option for long-term use. While this has become more of a norm, a closed system design is relatively novel in the pumping landscape.

Pump Modes

Stimulation Mode (Fast)

Designed to trigger letdown
70 cycles per minute
5 vacuum levels

Expression Mode (Slow)

Designed for milk removal
38–54 cycles per minute
12 vacuum levels

This pump remembers your last settings, which can be helpful—but also slightly annoying if you forget to adjust it and put it on at the strong suction you ended on.

Pros of the Spectra S1 & S2

Long lifespan in regard to its battery. You will likely be able to resell this.
Strong and widely adjustable suction range
Quiet compared to many other pumps
Closed system
Long battery life (S1: ~3 hours use per charge cycle)
Widely compatible with aftermarket accessories
Allows for hands on pumping (the gold standard) given the traditional flange kit. It should be noted that hands free cups are not your friend

Cons to Consider

No pump is perfect, and this one has a few limitations:

Bulky size (this is normal for strong motor pumps)
Slower stimulation mode. Again this is individual, so if you are someone that needs a really fast speed, then Medela is likely more up your alley.
Can be harder to find in Canada consistently as they sell out quickly due them being the only reliable primary pump on the market.
Use of a personal flange requires ordering a connector. This is however readily available on Amazon. And please dont even tell me if youre using the flanges the come in the box. Or do, and book a consult for a flange fitting with me so that you actually get the milk out. After all, a good pump is only one part of the equation
Not discrete like a wearable pumps given its large size

Where to Buy Spectra Pumps in Calgary

Currently Spectra is only available for purchase online from Walmart.ca Although they have said they are coming to Amazon.ca this year.

Be mindful that if this is on your list, they sell out in days so you should snatch one up if you see it.

Another option is buying second hand and buying a new kit (the part that touches milk) if that is something you are comfortable with.

Buying Secondhand

You’ll often see Spectra pumps on Facebook Marketplace or resale groups. They sell pretty easily and for decent money too.

While this can be tempting, there are important considerations:

Breast pumps are single-user medical devices
Milk contamination can occur which is why its important to buy a new kit at the least
You have no idea how much someone has used a pump EXCEPT for a spectra where you can press a sequence of buttons to display the number of hours of use. 500 is about this pumps lifespan

Determining Hours Of Use

This special sequence of buttons is what gives you the digital read out of hours used.

On
Mode (bacon button)
Cycle +
Vacuum -
Cycle -
Vacuum +
Mode (bacon button)

Flange Fit

One of the biggest improvements you can make to any pump setup is correct flange fit.

Spectra uses a one-piece system by default, but many parents switch to a custom flange by purchasing a Maymom connector piece (available on Amazon) which allows you to use properly sized flanges and optimize your output and comfort. Do not skip this step, flange size is the single most important part of your setup, other that pumping regularly. If you are looking to buy a flange in Calgary rather than off Amazon, check on my blog on Best Places to purchase a flange in Calgary.

Who the Spectra S1/S2 Is Best For

This pump is a strong fit for:

Exclusive pumpers
Parents establishing or increasing milk supply
NICU families pumping multiple times daily
Anyone needing a reliable “workhorse” pump
People who likes a slight vibration with strong moderate speed suction pattern

For many of my NICU families in Calgary, this is one of the few pumps I trust alongside symphony rentals when supply establishment is the goal. The upside of purchasing is that its a one time cost compared to potentially months of renting, and you will likely be able to resell it or use it for your next baby.

Final Thoughts

The Spectra S1 and S2 have earned their reputation as reliable primary pumps. They’re not perfect (that one piece flange and connector is not going to work), but they offer something many parents in Canada have lacked for years: a reliable, strong primary pump with a wide range of vacuum levels and speeds.

At Ollio Lactation in Calgary, I use Spectra pumps to assess supply because they help remove one big variable: whether the pump itself is the problem.

When the equipment is solid, we can focus on all of the other variables: flange fit, technique, and routine.

Need Help Choosing a Pump in Calgary?

If you’re unsure whether the Spectra S1 or S2 fits your situation, or you’re trying to build a pumping plan that supports your supply goals, I offer in-home lactation support across Calgary where we can size you for a flange, optimize your pumping, and look at what may be a good pump option for you and your goals.

Spectra S1 and S2 pump Review