As a new mom navigating the whirlwind of breastfeeding, I faced the daunting task of choosing the right breast pump.
After countless hours researching, I narrowed it down to the Cimilre P1 and Cimilre S6—two pumps that promised efficiency and comfort.
In this article, I’ll share my firsthand experience comparing these devices, weighing their pros and cons to help you decide which fits your lifestyle.
From portability to suction power, I’ll break down their features in a clear, engaging way to guide you through your pumping journey.
Comparison Table: Cimilre P1 Vs. Cimilre S6
Feature | Cimilre P1 | Cimilre S6 |
Type | Double electric, portable | Double electric, stationary (S6+ rechargeable) |
Weight | 0.55 lbs | 1.71 lbs (S6), 1.9 lbs (S6+) |
Portability | Highly portable, pocket-sized | Less portable, requires outlet (S6) |
Battery | Rechargeable, 2-3 hours | S6: None; S6+: Rechargeable |
Suction Strength | Up to 250 mmHg | Up to 280 mmHg |
Cycle Speeds | 5 massage, 12 expression | 25 massage, 60 expression |
Noise Level | ~50 dB | ~45 dB |
Modes | Massage, Expression | Massage, Expression |
Flange Sizes | 21mm, 24mm (others available) | 21mm, 24mm (others available) |
Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Price | ~$150-$200 (varies by retailer) | ~$200-$250 (S6+ slightly higher) |
Best For | On-the-go moms | Home-based, frequent pumpers |
My Journey With Breast Pumps
When I first started my breastfeeding journey, I underestimated how much a breast pump would shape my daily routine. Between late-night feedings and returning to work, I needed a pump that could keep up with my schedule while being comfortable and efficient. The Cimilre P1 and S6 caught my attention because of their reputation for quality and innovative features. Both are double electric pumps, meaning they can express milk from both breasts simultaneously, saving precious time. But they cater to different needs, and I wanted to understand which would suit me—and you—best. So, I tested both, and here’s what I found.
Cimilre P1: The Portable Powerhouse

The Cimilre P1 is like the Swiss Army knife of breast pumps—compact, versatile, and ready for action wherever you are. Weighing just 0.55 pounds, it’s small enough to slip into a purse or even a large pocket, making it a game-changer for moms who are always on the move. I remember tossing it into my diaper bag before heading to a coffee shop to meet friends, and it felt like no extra burden at all.
Key Features of the Cimilre P1
The P1’s standout feature is its portability. Powered by a rechargeable battery that lasts about 2-3 hours (roughly 4-6 pumping sessions), it freed me from being tethered to an outlet. This was a lifesaver during long car rides or when I was at work with no convenient plug nearby. The pump offers two modes: Massage Mode to stimulate letdown and Expression Mode for steady milk flow. With five cycle speeds in Massage Mode and twelve in Expression Mode, I could tweak the settings to match my comfort level.
The suction strength, maxing out at 250 mmHg, is slightly lower than hospital-grade pumps but still effective for most moms. I found it strong enough to empty my breasts efficiently without feeling like my nipples were being yanked off. The P1 also comes with 21mm and 24mm flanges, and Cimilre’s “Get the Right Fit” program offers additional sizes (16mm to 32mm) to ensure a comfortable fit. The materials are BPA-, BPS-, and phthalate-free, which gave me peace of mind knowing my milk was safe.
Pros of the Cimilre P1
- Portability: At 0.55 pounds, it’s one of the lightest double electric pumps I’ve used. It’s perfect for travel or work.
- Rechargeable Battery: The 2-3 hour battery life meant I could pump multiple times without needing a charge.
- Ease of Use: The controls are intuitive, with a clear LCD screen that’s easy to read, even during late-night sessions.
- Affordable: Priced between $150-$200, it’s often covered by insurance, making it budget-friendly.
- Quiet Enough: At around 50 dB, it’s not whisper-quiet but won’t wake a sleeping baby in the next room.
Cons of the Cimilre P1
- Lower Suction Power: The 250 mmHg suction is decent but may not suffice for moms with low milk supply or those needing hospital-grade strength.
- Battery Life Limitations: If you’re pumping 6-8 times a day, you’ll need to recharge midday, which can be inconvenient.
- Slower Cycle Speeds: With fewer cycle options (5 in Massage, 12 in Expression), it’s less customizable than the S6.
- Not Ideal for Heavy Use: If you’re exclusively pumping, the P1 might feel underpowered compared to stationary models.
My Experience with the P1
Using the P1 felt like a breath of fresh air when I was juggling meetings and errands. I could pump discreetly in a restroom or car without hauling a bulky machine. The setup was straightforward—attach the flanges, connect the tubing, and press a button. The Massage Mode gently coaxed my milk to flow, and switching to Expression Mode was seamless. However, I noticed that on days when my supply was lower, the P1 took a bit longer to empty me compared to stronger pumps. It’s a trade-off for its portability, but for occasional pumping, it was a dream.
Cimilre S6: The Home-Based Workhorse

The Cimilre S6 (and its rechargeable sibling, the S6+) is designed for moms who need a reliable, powerful pump for frequent use, typically at home. At 1.71 pounds (1.9 for the S6+), it’s heavier than the P1 but still compact enough to move around the house. I tested the S6, which requires a power outlet, but the S6+ offers a rechargeable battery for added flexibility.
Key Features of the Cimilre S6
The S6 is a beast when it comes to customization. With 25 cycle speeds in Massage Mode and 60 in Expression Mode, it offers 85 total setting combinations—far more than the P1. This allowed me to fine-tune the pump to mimic my baby’s natural sucking pattern, which was a game-changer for my comfort and milk output. The suction strength reaches up to 280 mmHg, closer to hospital-grade pumps, making it ideal for moms who pump multiple times daily.
The S6’s GentleFlow Technology ensures a smooth, quiet operation at just 45 dB—quieter than the P1. It also has a nightlight with three brightness levels, which I found invaluable during 3 a.m. pumping sessions. Like the P1, it’s BPA-, BPS-, and phthalate-free and comes with 21mm and 24mm flanges. The S6+ adds a rechargeable battery, making it a hybrid between the P1’s portability and the S6’s power.
Pros of the Cimilre S6
- Powerful Suction: The 280 mmHg suction strength is robust, perfect for frequent or exclusive pumpers.
- Highly Customizable: With 85 setting combinations, you can dial in the perfect rhythm for your body.
- Quiet Operation: At 45 dB, it’s one of the quietest pumps I’ve used, ideal for nighttime use.
- Nightlight Feature: The adjustable LED nightlight made it easy to pump in low-light settings without disturbing my baby.
- Durable Design: Built for long-term use, it feels sturdier than the P1 for daily pumping.
Cons of the Cimilre S6
- Less Portable: The S6’s reliance on a power outlet (unless you get the S6+) limits its mobility.
- Heavier: At 1.71-1.9 pounds, it’s not ideal for carrying around all day.
- Higher Price: Priced at $200-$250, it’s slightly more expensive than the P1, though often insurance-covered.
- Learning Curve: With so many settings, it took me a few sessions to find the perfect combination.
My Experience with the S6
The S6 felt like a luxury pump at home. I set it up on my nightstand, and the quiet motor meant I could pump while my partner slept nearby. The nightlight was a small but thoughtful touch, casting just enough glow to see what I was doing without fully waking me up. The suction was noticeably stronger than the P1, and I could feel my breasts emptying faster—sometimes in just 15 minutes. However, when I tried taking it to my mom’s house, I missed the P1’s grab-and-go ease. The S6 is a powerhouse, but it’s happiest plugged in at home.
Read More: My Thoughts On Philips Avent Breast Pump Vs. Spectra
Head-To-Head Comparison
Let’s break down how these pumps stack up in key areas to help you decide.
Portability and Convenience
The P1 is the clear winner for portability. Its pocket-sized design and rechargeable battery make it perfect for moms who pump at work, travel, or need flexibility. I loved how I could toss it in my bag and pump in a café restroom without hassle. The S6, however, is better suited for home use unless you opt for the S6+, which adds a battery but still feels bulkier. If you’re mostly pumping at home or in one place, the S6’s stationary design won’t bother you.
Suction and Efficiency
The S6’s 280 mmHg suction and extensive cycle options make it more efficient for frequent pumpers. I noticed it emptied me faster, especially on days when my supply felt sluggish. The P1’s 250 mmHg suction is solid for occasional use but might not keep up with heavy pumping schedules. If you’re exclusively pumping, the S6’s hospital-grade strength is a big advantage.
Comfort and Customization
Both pumps are comfortable, thanks to Cimilre’s GentleFlow Technology, but the S6’s 85 setting combinations give it an edge. I could adjust it to feel almost like my baby’s natural latch, which reduced discomfort during long sessions. The P1’s fewer settings still worked well, but I occasionally wished for more fine-tuning. Both come with multiple flange sizes, and Cimilre’s sizing program ensures a good fit, which is critical for comfort.
Noise Level
The S6’s 45 dB motor is impressively quiet, making it ideal for discreet pumping at home. The P1, at 50 dB, is slightly louder but still manageable. I used the P1 in a quiet office without drawing attention, but the S6’s whisper-quiet operation was noticeably better for nighttime use.
Price and Accessibility
Both pumps are often covered by insurance, which is a huge plus. The P1 is slightly cheaper ($150-$200 vs. $200-$250 for the S6/S6+), making it more budget-friendly if you’re paying out of pocket. The S6+’s rechargeable battery adds to the cost but bridges the gap between the P1’s portability and the S6’s power.
Durability and Warranty
Both pumps come with a two-year warranty, and Cimilre’s customer service is responsive, especially for flange sizing or replacement parts. However, some users report durability issues with Cimilre pumps, like motors failing after months of heavy use. I didn’t experience this, but it’s worth noting if you plan to pump long-term.
Real-World Scenarios: Which Pump Fits Your Life?
To make this practical, let’s look at how these pumps fit different lifestyles.
The Working Mom
If you’re back at work and pumping in break rooms or on commutes, the P1 is your best bet. Its portability and battery life let you pump anywhere, anytime. I used it during lunch breaks, and the compact size meant I could store it discreetly in my desk. The S6+ could work if you need stronger suction, but its bulkier design might be a hassle to carry.
The Stay-at-Home Mom
For moms pumping mostly at home, the S6 (or S6+) shines. Its powerful suction and customization options make it ideal for frequent sessions, and the quiet motor won’t disrupt your household. I loved using the S6 for early morning pumps when I wanted to keep things peaceful.
The Exclusive Pumper
If you’re exclusively pumping, the S6’s hospital-grade suction and durability are better suited for 6-8 daily sessions. The P1 can handle occasional pumping but might struggle to keep up with a rigorous schedule.
The Traveling Mom
The P1 is a no-brainer for travel. Its lightweight design and battery make it easy to pack and use on planes, in hotels, or at family gatherings. The S6+ is a decent alternative, but the standard S6’s need for an outlet limits its travel-friendliness.
My Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
After testing both, I found the choice depends on your lifestyle. The Cimilre P1 is my go-to for flexibility and portability. It’s perfect if you’re a busy mom who needs to pump on the go, whether at work or while traveling. Its ease of use and compact design make it a stress-free option, though it’s not the best for heavy-duty pumping.
The Cimilre S6, on the other hand, is a powerhouse for home use. Its strong suction, extensive customization, and quiet operation make it ideal for frequent or exclusive pumpers who prioritize efficiency and comfort. If you want the best of both worlds, the S6+ offers a rechargeable battery, but it comes at a higher price and slightly bulkier design.
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either, but think about where and how often you’ll pump. If mobility is key, grab the P1. If power and customization are your priorities, the S6 is your match. Both have made my pumping journey smoother, and I’m confident they can do the same for you.
Read More: My Thoughts On Lansinoh Signature Pro Vs. Smartpump
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, the Cimilre S6 is considered hospital-grade due to its 280 mmHg suction strength, suitable for frequent or exclusive pumping.
The Cimilre E1 is a compact, single electric breast pump designed for occasional use, offering portability and simplicity but less power than the P1 or S6.
There’s no universal #1, but the Spectra S1 is often praised for its reliability and battery life. The Cimilre S6 is a strong contender for home use.
The Cimilre E1 is a small, lightweight pump for occasional pumping, ideal as a backup or for moms with minimal pumping needs.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Cimilre P1 and S6 comes down to your unique needs as a mom. I’ve shared my experience to help you weigh their strengths and weaknesses, from the P1’s portability to the S6’s powerful customization. Whether you’re pumping on the go or at home, both pumps offer quality and comfort to support your breastfeeding journey. Take a moment to consider your routine, and you’ll find the perfect pump to make this chapter of motherhood a little easier.