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Spectra Synergy Gold SG Pump Review (Is It worth it? Here is why!)

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Are you wondering if the Spectra Synergy Gold (Spectra SG) is worth it? Maybe you pumped with the Spectra S1 or S2 in the past and are thinking about ordering the newest model. Or you may have heard how many moms prefer using their Spectra pumps over other brands. 

Most moms only have the opportunity to choose one pump when they are deciding which pump to order through their insurance. It is a lot of pressure when you have to make a decision and you can’t try out the pump ahead of time.

The good news is that Spectra is a quality brand and you will most likely be happy with any of their pumps, including the Spectra Synergy Gold SG pump, the Spectra S1 or the Spectra S2.

This is an amazing pump and I love it even more than my Spectra S2.

Here I go into all the details on the Spectra SG Synergy Gold, how it compares to the Spectra S1 and S2, and some of the new features on this pump that aren’t on the older versions of the Spectra pump.

What is the difference between the Spectra Synergy Gold (SG), the Spectra S2, and Spectra S1?

There are a few big differences between the Spectra SG and the Spectra S1 and S2.

  • The main difference is there are 2 motors with the Spectra Synergy SG. 
  • The second difference is there are 5 massage modes to choose from on the Synergy where there is only level 70 on the S1 and S2. 
  • The Synergy has more levels of Vacuum / suction strength than the older pumps.
  • The Spectra Synergy does not have a rechargeable battery like the S1, so it is similar to the S2 in that respect.
  • The Synergy is extra quiet and comes with a mute function.

The main difference between these pumps is that there are two motors with the Spectra Synergy SG and only one motor in the Spectra S1 and Spectra S2.

This means that you can adjust the strength of the motor for each side when you are pumping with the Spectra Synergy. 

Pro Tip: The dual pumps are a game changer if you have one side that is a “slacker” side. Sometimes if you try to increase the strength on the slacker side, it can help to increase your output. It is definitely something you may want to try out if you do not have equal milk output from both sides!

Some moms have been using two pumps, like 2 Spectra S2s, so they can adjust the vacuum strength to be different levels on each side, and this is not necessary with the Spectra Synergy.  You can do the same thing with one pump!

For more info on the older versions of the Spectra pumps, check out my article on how to use the Spectra S1 and S2 pumps, including recommended settings for the Spectra pump.

Massage Modes On the Spectra Synergy Gold SG

Another big difference is with the Spectra Synergy you have 5 different massage modes (or let down modes) for the cycle. You have a choice between 64, 67, 70, 74 and 76 speeds. 

This means you can choose a slightly faster or slower massage setting than the 70 which is standard for the Spectra S1 and S2 pumps.

The Synergy is extra quiet and even has a mute function. This is so useful during those middle of the night pumping sessions or if you are trying to be discrete while pumping at work or on the phone.

The bottles that come with the Synergy have a gold Spectra logo and are really pretty.

Which Pumping Bra Can I Use With the Spectra SG Synergy?

One big tip is that not every pumping bra works well with Spectra pumps. The flange is one piece, so some of the Medela pumping bras will not work when you are using this pump.

This is my favorite pumping bra to use with the Spectra (link to Amazon). I found that having two pumping bras was perfect. With two, I had available to use while I was washing and air drying the second one.

You can read more about my favorite pumping bras for the Spectra here.

Vacuum / Suction Strength on the Spectra Synergy

The vacuum strength on the Spectra Synergy goes all the way up to level 15. This gives you more options for stronger suction with this new feature.

For comparison, the older Spectra S1 and S2 pumps only have 12 levels of suction strength. They go from Vacuum level 1 to level 12. 

If you need the higher levels of suction, you will appreciate this new feature on the pump!

Recommended Spectra Synergy Pump Settings

Here is an example for pump settings on the Spectra Synergy. You can start here and then adjust the pump settings to your preference.

Start with Massage mode for the first 2 to 5 minutes. This is the button with 3 wavy lines. 

You may want to start with the cycle at 74 and the Vacuum at level 3. You will want to increase the vacuum up to the highest setting that is comfortable. If you feel pain, then move the vacuum down a level. 

You most likely will want to leave the vacuum at the same power for both the right and left side when you are starting to use this pump.

A few reasons you may want to use different pump vacuum or suction settings are if you have different milk output on different sides, or if you have clogged milk ducts on one side.

Summary of Spectra Synergy Pump Settings

Here are sample Spectra SG settings to start out with. Make sure that the vacuum or suction level is not painful. If it is painful, then use a lower vacuum level.

  • First 2 – 5 minutes: Cycle 74, Vacuum level 3 or 4
  • Next 5 minutes: Cycle 54, Vacuum level 4 or 5
  • Next 5 minutes: Cycle 70, Vacuum level 4 or 5
  • Next 5 minutes: Cycle 46, Vacuum level 5 or 6
  • Last 5 minutes: Cycle 38, Vacuum level 7 or 8

Tubing and Connector On the Spectra Synergy

Another difference between these pumps is there is a small connector for the tubing that connects the Spectra tubing to the pump. The connector does come on and off.

Pro Tip: It is best to leave it connected to the tubing so it doesn’t come loose over time. This will also help to make sure you do not lose this small piece that you need to use the pump.

Similarities between the Spectra Synergy Gold SG and the Spectra S1 and S2

If you have used a Spectra S1 or S2, you may be wondering if the Spectra Synergy SG has some of the same features that you love on the older pumps.

The good news is the Spectra Synergy is also a closed system with the backflow protectors. 

It also uses the same accessories like flanges, duckbill valves, and bottles as what you use with the Spectra S1 and S2. When you get the pump, you will have the standard 24mm and 28mm size flanges like what come with the Spectra S1 and S2.

If you need a different size flange, there are a few options to adjust the flange size to be personalized to you.

The Spectra SG also uses the same 12 volt charger as the S1 and S2. It comes with a 2 year warranty which is also the same as the other Spectra pumps.

Does Insurance Cover the Spectra Synergy Gold SG?

Insurance coverage for the Spectra Synergy SG will depend on your plan. Many companies will cover the pump, but they usually will require an upgrade fee. 

If you’d like to see if your plan covers the Spectra Synergy SG, I recommend clicking here and filling out the form to see if you have coverage for the pump. You only need your insurance card and some information like your baby’s birth date or due date. 

If you have already used your insurance to buy a pump, then check out the price of the Spectra Synergy Gold here.

Does the Spectra Synergy SG have a rechargeable battery?

No, the Spectra Synergy Gold SG does not have a rechargeable battery. It is similar to the pink Spectra S2 where it needs to be plugged into a wall outlet.

Here is more info on a battery pack you can use with the Spectra S2.

Does the Spectra Synergy SG have a handle?

Yes, the Spectra Synergy Gold SG has a handle. It is a more sleek and modern design than the older Spectra S1 and Spectra S2 pumps. The handle to carry the pump is in the back. 

You cannot wrap your fingers all the way around it like you can with the handles on the S1 and S2, but it does have a spot to carry the pump so you can easily move it around.

Should You Get the Spectra Synergy Gold SG?

If you can afford the upgrade fee, the new Spectra Synergy has a lot of great features that make the upgrade fee worth it. It can come in especially useful if you are trying to even out your milk output or if you deal with clogged ducts. 

If I was deciding between the Spectra S2 and the Spectra Synergy, I’d definitely choose the Spectra Synergy. All of the new features and the beautiful design make pumping that much more enjoyable.

It is a little tough to decide between the Spectra S1 and the Spectra Synergy, because the S1 (blue version) has a rechargeable battery and the Synergy does not have this feature. 

For me, the decision comes down to if you plan on having 2 pumps, a portable pump and a more “permanent” pump that stays at home or work.

If you are planning to use 2 pumps, such as a portable pump like the Willow or the Freemie, then I would choose the Spectra Synergy and the Willow. 

If you only have the budget for one pump, then I would choose the Spectra S1. Even though I love the upgraded design and the new features on the Spectra Synergy, the portability and rechargeable battery with the Spectra S1 is a feature that I wouldn’t want to give up if I only had one pump.

To compare prices, here is a link to the current price of the Spectra S1 (on Amazon).

Here is a link for the current price of the Spectra Synergy Gold (at Target).

If you are interested in a portable pump, you may also want to check out this article: Is the Willow Pump Worth It?

Must-Have Pumping Gear

Hear are a few of my favorite pumping items that made my life so much easier.

More Pumping Tips

  1. The Ultimate Guide To The Spectra Pump
  2. Exclusive Discounts for New Moms
  3. The Best Pumping Bra For Spectra

Resources

https://www.spectrababyusa.com/shop/spectra-synergy-gold-dual-powered-breast-pump/

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