Willow vs Elvie vs Freemie – which wearable breast pump to choose?

Wearable Breast Pump - Design3

To make the breast-pumping process as easy as possible for your partner you need to get her the greatest gear. The most vital of which is the breast pump. There are manual breast pumps on the market, but what about some modern ones: wearable models? Today I’ll be comparing Willow vs Elvie vs Freemie with one another, so you can make the best decision.

Straight off the bat, in case you’re in a rush or want me to cut to the chase, the product I recommend above all other wearable breast pump is the Elvie Pump with App. This wearable breast pump offers its wearers comfort, convenience and connectivity – but for a price. Keep reading to find out more.

My Top Picks

What You Need to Know Before Buying a Wearable Breast Pump

Picking the right wearable breast pump is not as easy as you may think. In fact, it can be downright overwhelming. All sorts of things need to be considered from your lifestyle to your employment status and from the size of your breasts to your milk production. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know before making this (sometimes sizeable) investment.

Wireless vs Hands-Free Breast Pumps

How do Willow vs Elvie vs Freemie pumps compare to one another? Let’s start off by examining which type of wearable pumps they are. In the wearable breast pump arena you get two different types of pumps: wireless pumps and hands-free pumps.

Willow and Elvie are both classed as wireless pumps. This means that they are all-in-one breast pumping solutions. Every aspect of the pumping process takes place within the bra – from the pumping itself to the milk collection.

Freemie on the other hand is a hands-free pump. This means that although it is wired by design the pumping process is automatic. Concealable collection cups are placed inside your regular or nursing bra for easy collection of milk.

All Willow vs Elvie vs Freemie wearable pumps are portable, convenient and make the life of a breast-pumping mother a whole lot easier.

What are the Benefits of Wearable Breast Pumps?

If you aren’t sure whether you’d be better served by a traditional breast pump or a wearable one, consider the benefits that come hand in hand with such pumps:

  • Completely portable
  • Allow you to multitask while pumping
  • Natural suction mechanism can increase milk supply
  • Easier (not to mention more convenient!) than manually pumping
  • Innovative and trending technology

Things to Look for in Wearable Breast Pumps

There are many boxes that a wearable breast pump must tick. Comfort and convenience come before everything else. Your partner should never be made to feel like a milk-producing dairy cow when pumping. Here are features you need to pay careful attention to when selecting a wearable breast pump.

Operating Noise

The noise produced by the pump when operating is more important to some than it is to others. For pumping mothers who are members of the workforce, silent operation is a non-negotiable. For other mothers who don’t want to wake up their sleeping partners or children, a little bit of noise is acceptable.

Size Options

Women naturally have breasts and nipples of different sizes. When breastfeeding or pumping, it’s completely normal for the nipples to change in size and shape. That’s why it’s important that the pump option you pick comes with multiple breast shields of different sizes. If you’re not sure what size you’ll need both Willow and Elvie have sizing resources to guide you.

Milk Storage Solution

It goes without saying that every drop of that freshly pumped milk needs to go somewhere. When it comes to milk storage you have one of two options: storage bags or storage bottles. Be sure to opt for a wearable pump that offers your milk storage solution of choice.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Thankfully, wearable breast pumps are incredibly easy to use by design. Simply put them on, go about your daily business and let them work their magic. Cleaning on the other hand is not always a simple task due to the detachable parts. Be sure to pick a product that is easy to disassemble and clean by hand. Bonus if it’s dishwasher safe!

Battery Life

What’s the point in opting for a portable breast pump if its battery dies in little to no time? All of the options on our list require two hours of charging to reach full charge and the battery will last for approximately two hours or five pumping sessions.

App Options

Technology exists to make the life of the modern-day parent easier. Why not take advantage of it? Both Elvie and Willow have apps that allow you to monitor your milk production and check your pumping history. The apps are compatible with Android and iOS devices alike. Sadly, Freemie is yet to develop an app. I strongly suggest they get right on that!

Elvie Pump Double Silent Wearable Breast Pump with App

Elvie Breast Pump - Double - Not Sold by Elvie

The first product I’ll be introducing you to is the Elvie Double Silent Wearable Breast Pump with App. This hassle-free wearable pump is one of the best options on the market for many reasons. For starters, it offers silent operation to all of its users. It’s also incredibly smart!

It can detect let-downs and automatically switches from Stimulation mode to Expression mode. Seven intensity settings allow you to work with your natural milk flow. The integrated Elvie Pump App allows you to have total remote control over the pump, gauge your milk volume and track each breast’s pumping history. Every drop of milk is stored in a 150ml BPA-free bottle.

Another option is going for Medela Freestyle double pump instead of Elvie. Both are excellent options.

Elvie Breast Pump - Double - Not Sold by Elvie

Who This Product is Ideal For

The Elvie Pump Double Silent Wearable Breast Pump with App is great for working mothers.

Why You Should Consider It

Its silent operation, chord-free design, and discreet wearability mean you can wear this pump in the office without worry. Plus, the free app is an incredible resource for any new mother to have. You may want to get it new or a used Elvie might be also an option.

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions: 2.7″ x 4.3″ x 5″
  • Weight: 14.9 ounces
  • Operation: 1 x Lithium metal battery
  • Warranty: 2-year

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Stimulation to Expression mode
  • Integrated app available
  • Easy to use and store
  • Silent operation
  • Micro USB chargeable

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Poor battery life
  • A hassle to clean
  • Suction isn’t as strong as found in other options
  • Spills when you bend over
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Willow Wearable Breast Pump Generation 3

Willow 3.0 Wearable Breast Pump, Double Electric Breast Pump, Cordless, Hands Free Breast Pump with 9 Levels of Smart, Hospital Grade Suction Strength, 100% Leak Proof & Fits Fully In Bra, 24mm Flange

The next product we’ll be taking a look at is the Willow Wearable Breast Pump Generation 3. This breast pump is wireless, quiet, and helps most women produce as much as 20% more milk. It is able to pump into bags or containers, which is a hugely convenient feature lacking in other models. Seven levels of suction mean you are in total control of your pumping experience while Smart Suction technology automatically adjusts to help you pump more milk out. It consists of only two parts and is dishwasher safe so cleaning is a breeze.

The Generation 3 has an exclusive app that provides personalized pumping tips, pumping history data, and milk volume tracking.

I compared this Willow Gen 3 to Spectra in another article which you might want to check out.

Willow 3.0 Wearable Breast Pump, Double Electric Breast Pump, Cordless, Hands Free Breast Pump with 9 Levels of Smart, Hospital Grade Suction Strength, 100% Leak Proof & Fits Fully In Bra, 24mm Flange

Who This Product is Ideal For

This product is ideal for women who are breast-pumping and won’t spare any expense to make it as pleasurable an experience as possible.

Why You Should Consider It

Even though it’s not completely silent like the Elvie, it’s quiet. It’s easy to use and incredibly easy to clean. Plus, those who love technology will appreciate the high-tech nature of this device. Its free app makes for a valuable resource to new parents as well as mothers who are worried about their pumping results.

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions: 5.5″ x 3.3″ x  4.4″
  • Weight: 11.81 oz
  • Operation: 1 x Lithium metal battery
  • Warranty: 1-year

Pros

  • Can pump into both milk bags and containers
  • Quiet operation
  • Extremely easy to clean
  • Integrated app available
  • Spill-proof design
  • Micro USB rechargeable

Cons

  • Expensive (although Willow does offer a financing plan through Affirm)
  • Milk containers sold separately
  • Only comes with one size of shields, others are sold separately
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Freemie Freedom Double Electric Hands Free and Concealable Breast Pump

Freemie Freedom Double Electric Hands Free and Concealable Breast Pump, White

The last product I’ll be sharing with you today is the Freemie Freedom Double Electric Hands Free and Concealable Breast Pump. Unlike the other options I introduced you to this model is hands-free but not wireless. This fact is reflected in its attractively small price tag! This means that it can be worn in the bra just like the Elvie and the Willow but you’ll need to make accommodations for the collection cup (which is attached to the pump via tubes). All milk is collected in the 8oz collection cup. It has a 64″ integrated power cord so you can plug in easily anywhere that has a standard 120V power outlet available.

Who This Product is Ideal For

This product is ideal for those who work from home as well as those who aren’t looking to spend a small fortune on a breast pump. It is incredibly budget-friendly which I’m sure most new parents will appreciate.

Why You Should Consider It

You should definitely give this product a go if you’re looking to test the waters of wearable breast pumps without first spending a significant amount of money on a wireless pump. The Freemie Pump can be considered as an entry level model into the wearable breast technology field.

Product Specifications

  • Dimensions: 9.1″ x 8.4″ x 8.1″
  • Weight: 4.5lbs
  • Operation: Electrical – 120VAC
  • Warranty: 60 days

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Easy to use
  • Collection cups can be used with other pumps

Cons

  • Pump is heavy
  • Not wireless
  • No app available
  • Inferior warranty period
  • The suction setting knob makes it seem as though “the headlights are on”
View on Amazon

FAQ

How do you put on a wearable breast pump?

Putting on a wearable breast pump is incredibly easy. For wireless pumps, simply place a pump on each breast, insert the nipple into the nipple hole and put your bra on as you usually would. If you’re using a hands-free pump, like the Freemie, follow the same process except tuck the tubes and collection cups under your clothing in your bra.

How does it feel to wear a wearable breast pump?

Wearing a wearable breast pump sure does take some getting used to. At first, the pump will feel incredibly strange in the bra. And that’s before it even starts pumping! It will feel strange, yet won’t physically feel uncomfortable. Bear in mind that your chest will look and feel bigger while wearing the pumps.

Why are wearable breast pumps more expensive than regular breast pumps?

The reason why wearable breast pumps are more expensive than regular breast pumps is simple: convenience. The wearer isn’t made to feel like a dairy cow and gives them high levels of mobility, discretion and comfort. On top of this aspect, the incredibly high-tech features found in these devices justify the hefty price tag attached to them.

Conclusion

And there you have it: a look at Willow vs Elvie vs Freemie to help you make the right decision. My advice? Give the Freemie a skip and fork out the extra cash to purchase either Willow or Elvie’s wearable breast pump. While both pumps from Willow and Elvie are innovative and groundbreaking, the Freemie pump’s offering simply isn’t on par. And once you get any of them, you may need a suitable bra for your Willow or Elvie.

Or what do you think of the Momcozy brand as compared to the Elvie or a Spectra pump compared to the Elvie?

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

6 thoughts on “Willow vs Elvie vs Freemie – which wearable breast pump to choose?”

  1. Thank you for providing an in-depth review for each of the three wearable pumps. This is the most informative article I have found for the wearable pumps and has helped me make a decision on which wearable pump to purchase. The Pros / Cons List is an appreciated summation.

  2. While I do like your review I feel
    Like I need to mention something. Milk doesn’t flow through tubing in the freemie pump Or any pump with tubing. If you have milk in the tubing there may be an issue with the parts. I’ve breastfed and pumped for 4 children and now expecting twins. Searching for the right handsfree pump.

    1. Balint Horvath, PhD

      Casey, thank you for reaching out and alerting me to the issue around milk flowing through the tubing of the Freemie breast pump mentioned in my article. As a mother who has used breast pumps extensively, you’re well-informed about these products. I have amended the error in my post.

      With regard to your question about finding a hands-free breast milk pump, I can refer you to some other reviews on my site. You may find them useful in your search for the right product.

      https://projectfather.com/medela-sonata-vs-spectra-s1-vs-s2/

      https://projectfather.com/medela-vs-lansinoh-breast-pump/

      Good luck with finding the right breast pump for your needs. Maybe you could let me know which product you finally settle on? What do you think of the Elvie, my top choice? And, congratulations on expecting twins!

  3. Balint Horvath, PhD

    Shang, thanks very much for this detailed response. I’m glad my blog post could lead you to the right product and you’re happy with it. Elvie’s quite operation is one of their big selling points. It’s a great feature to have when one has a baby who’s sensitive to the change in noise level (like our daughter).

    Thanks also for the book recommendation! I guess you meant this book (shee wrote 2) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AEBEQUK ?

    1. Yes it is exactly that book. Expecting better by Emily Oster. She has other books like cribsheet. But expecting better was a much better book in my opinion.

  4. Like many first time moms, I struggled a lot with breastfeeding. At first, it was about milk not coming in. Then it’s about constant nipple bruises and under-supply. Pretty much all moms around me have their version of issues related to breastfeeding. One thing that is really important in the first several weeks/months is breastpumps. I came across this article when I was doing my research on portable breastpumps and this blog was the most helpful among all I read.

    Yes I absolutely love elvie. And at first I have used a Medela pump. But elvie is truly revolutionary for breastfeeding moms. And the feedback I’ve gotten from other moms are the same. Since I’ve used it, I’ve been recommending elvie to all new moms around me. My husband is also extremely impressed with how seamless and quiet and convenient it is.

    Function aside, the only concern some of my friends have is the price. Not only because it is expensive but apparently the knowledge of such pumps is not common among moms and people around them, and so more than often it turns out that moms were first introduced to traditional products like Medela and Spectra and more likely have spent money on them already. Buying a second set of pumps which is not that cheap will then fall out of their priority list. Not sure if this is something brands like elvie or Willow can work on.. there is a huge market of it – new moms, Lactation consultant and doctors should all upgrade their knowledge about pumps.

    And as of me, I was given my Medela from a friend for free. So I wasnt too hesitant on buying a set of pumps for myself. If I had invested hundreds of dollars in my pump and am not sure about elvie, I doubt I would spend that much money to buy another pair.

    Another thing worth noting, Emily Oster wrote a really good book for expecting parents and she mentioned portable pumps but by the time she wrote her book there is only freemie available on the market. I really like her book and she gives very objective opinion based on research and papers and that’s why I got into knowing there is such a thing that’s portable. I was going to buy freemie and came across ur blog and it really saved my life ????

    So I think the knowledge and information of breastpump need to get out there to more moms and parents. You are doing a great job and it’s really helpful. Wish there are more like that. Emily’s books are super helpful as well. But if I weren’t an Economist myself I probably wouldn’t know about her books either. So it really comes down to the immediate circle of people that new parents are surrounded by – other parents, doctors, nurses and other specialists (I.e. lactation consultants).

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