For nursing mothers, using an electric breast pump is often necessary to express and store breastmilk. Two popular options are the Lansinoh Signature Pro and the Lansinoh SmartPump.
But which one is better? Here is a comprehensive overview of the pros and cons of the Lansinoh Signature Pro and SmartPump to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Lansinoh Signature Pro | Lansinoh SmartPump |
| Max Suction Strength | 250 mmHg | 180 mmHg |
| Suction Level Settings | 9 adjustable levels | 5 adjustable levels |
| Battery | No built-in battery, must plug-in | Rechargeable battery, 3 hrs cordless use |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs | 1.8 lbs |
| Size | 8.5 x 7.5 x 6.75 in | 7 x 5.3 x 6.3 in |
| Noise Level | Louder, may disturb light sleepers | Extremely quiet operation |
| Night Light | Yes | No |
| Touch Screen | No, uses buttons | Yes, LCD touch screen interface |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | No | Yes, connects to Lansinoh Baby app |
| Special Features | Massage mode, slower let-down mode | More portable size, lower profile fit |
| Typical Price | $125 | $199.99 |
Overview Of The Lansinoh Signature Pro Breast Pump
The Lansinoh Signature Pro double electric breast pump is designed for frequent use and aims to closely mimic a baby’s natural sucking rhythm. Some key features include:
- Three pumping styles: Expression, let-down, and massage mode
- Closed system to prevent milk backup in tubing
- Lightweight and portable at just 2.5 lbs
- Whisper quiet motor
- Large LCD display with timer and memory
- BPA and BPS free plastic components
The Signature Pro has a 2-phase technology. Let-down mode uses quick shallow “stimulation” sucks to start milk flowing. Expression mode provides fuller, longer “extraction” sucks to empty the breasts more thoroughly. There is also a massage mode with varying suction levels to help prevent clogged ducts.
The closed system design prevents milk from backing up into the tubing and motor. This helps avoid mold and bacteria growth that could contaminate pumped milk. The Signature Pro comes with two sizes of PersonalFit breast shields for more comfort and efficiency.
Overview Of The Lansinoh Smartpump Double Electric Breast Pump
The Lansinoh SmartPump is also a double electric pump designed for frequent use. It shares some similarities with the Signature Pro but has a few unique features, including:
- Bluetooth connectivity to the Lansinoh Baby app
- LCD touch screen with control panel
- Rechargeable battery for cordless pumping
- Compact size at just 1.8 lbs
- BPA and BPS free components
The SmartPump uses Lansinoh’s 2-Phase Expression Technology with let down and expression modes for efficient pumping. The key difference is the Bluetooth connectivity. You can control pumping settings, monitor milk volume, and track pumping sessions right from your smartphone.
The rechargeable battery offers three hours of cordless use. This allows more flexibility and mobility while pumping. The pump is also more compact and lightweight compared to the Signature Pro.
Pros Of The Lansinoh Signature Pro
Here are some of the main benefits of choosing the Signature Pro breast pump:
More suction level settings – The Signature Pro has 9 adjustable suction levels compared to just 5 on the SmartPump. More settings allows you to really fine-tune comfort and match your body’s response.
Higher suction strength – With a max suction of 250 mmHg, the Signature Pro has more power for efficient pumping sessions. This extra strength makes it a great choice for moms who need to pump frequently or have a heavy milk supply.
Night light – There is a soft nightlight built into the Signature Pro. This allows you to pump at night without fully waking up or turning on bright lights.
More affordable – The Signature Pro costs less than the SmartPump. So it’s the more budget-friendly option for moms looking for a high-quality double electric pump.
Standalone use – No app or connectivity needed for the Signature Pro. The settings and display are controlled right on the pump, so there are no concerns about phone compatibility.
Pros Of The Lansinoh Smartpump
Here are some of the unique benefits of the Lansinoh SmartPump breast pump:
Rechargeable battery – The built-in rechargeable battery on the SmartPump sets it apart from the Signature Pro. It offers 3 hours of cordless pumping for more flexibility.
Touch screen interface – The LCD touch screen on the SmartPump provides smooth one-handed control over settings. The Signature Pro relies on multiple buttons which can be more confusing.
Connectivity and tracking – Bluetooth connectivity allows you to monitor pumping sessions, control settings, and track milk volume all through the Lansinoh Baby app. This gives you more data about your pumping habits.
More portable – At just 1.8 pounds, the SmartPump is exceptionally lightweight and portable. Combined with the rechargeable battery, it is easy to pump on-the-go.
Lower profile fit – The SmartPump has a lower profile fit than the Signature Pro. The shield and bottle hang down instead of jutting straight out, which some moms find more comfortable.
Cons Of The Lansinoh Signature Pro
While the Signature Pro is full-featured, it does come with a few drawbacks:
No battery option – Since it lacks a rechargeable battery, the Signature Pro pump must be plugged in to use. This reduces mobility and flexibility compared to the SmartPump.
Large size – Weighing 2.5 lbs, the Signature Pro takes up more space in a bag and may feel bulky to transport. The upright bottle position also makes it less subtle to use in public.
More parts to clean – With separate valves, membranes, and flanges, there are more small parts to take apart and clean on the Signature Pro after each use.
Noisy – While not excessively loud, the Signature Pro does make more noise than the SmartPump during operation. So it may wake sleeping babies if pumping nearby.
Outdated display – The blue backlit display on the Signature Pro looks dated compared to the sleek touchscreen interface of the SmartPump.
Also watch this video about Lansinoh Signature Pro!
Cons Of The Lansinoh Smartpump
The high-tech SmartPump also comes with a few notable drawbacks:
Lower suction strength – With a max of only 180 mmHg suction, the SmartPump may not empty breasts as thoroughly as the higher powered Signature Pro.
Battery life – While convenient, the rechargeable battery only provides 3 hours of use before needing to be recharged. For moms who pump frequently, this may mean getting stuck while out if you forget to charge.
Fewer suction settings – With just 5 levels, you have less ability to fine-tune the suction on the SmartPump versus 9 levels on the Signature Pro.
App connectivity issues – Some moms report bugs with the Lansinoh Baby app losing connection to the pump or having syncing problems. Relying on an app for control can be frustrating if glitchy.
Higher cost – Due to the rechargeable battery and Bluetooth connectivity, the SmartPump typically costs about $50-$75 more than the Signature Pro.
Ease Of Use Comparison
Both the Signature Pro and SmartPump are designed for intuitive use, but there are some differences when it comes to convenience:
- The touch screen interface on the SmartPump provides seamless control with just a tap. The multiple buttons on the Signature Pro are less streamlined.
- The SmartPump’s app connectivity allows you to easily track pumping data and sessions. The Signature Pro does not connect or store session data.
- The battery on the SmartPump makes it extremely portable and flexible for pumping anywhere. The Signature Pro must remain plugged in, limiting mobility.
- The Signature Pro’s night light allows sleepy middle-of-the-night pumping sessions without fully waking up. The SmartPump lacks a night light.
- Both pumps have closed system designs to prevent milk backup and contamination. But the Signature Pro has more small parts to take apart and wash after each use.
Performance And Effectiveness
When it comes to pumping performance, both options work well but some key differences stand out:
- The Signature Pro’s stronger suction power allows it to fully empty breasts more efficiently. The SmartPump’s lower 180mmHg maximum suction may leave breasts feeling not as thoroughly drained.
- The 2-phase pumping technology is effective on both pumps. But the Signature Pro’s additional massage mode provides variation to help address possible clogged ducts.
- The ability to fine-tune comfort with 9 suction levels on the Signature Pro is useful for optimizing pumping effectiveness. The SmartPump only offers 5 levels.
- Moms with abundant milk supply often find the Signature Pro’s higher strength better accommodates their needs. Those who travel frequently favor the SmartPump’s portability and battery.
- Both pumps come with PersonalFit breast shields in two sizes for optimal fit and comfort. Proper flange fit can affect pumping output.
Also Read: Choose Between Philips Avent Breast Pump And Spectra.
Noise Levels
Discreet and quiet operation can be key for some nursing moms. Here is how the pumps compare:
- The SmartPump operates extremely quietly, even on higher settings. Its noise levels are subtle enough for open concept spaces or pumping next to a sleeping baby.
- The Signature Pro does produce more audible noise, especially on stronger suction settings. It may be loud enough to wake light sleepers nearby.
- The motors on both pumps are designed for quiet operation. But the Signature Pro’s stronger suction capabilities mean it inherently makes more noise when operating at capacity.
- For private, noise-sensitive environments, the SmartPump is the better choice. But the Signature Pro is not excessively noisy.
Cost Comparison
As with most baby gear purchases, cost often plays a role in choosing a breast pump. Here is how the prices stack up:
- With an MSRP of $199.99, the Lansinoh SmartPump is typically priced around $75 more than the Signature Pro.
- The Signature Pro breast pump has an MSRP of $144.99 and usually retails closer to $125.
- Because it is Bluetooth enabled and includes a rechargeable battery, the SmartPump ultimately costs more to produce and purchase.
- Both pumps qualify for insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act when prescribed by a doctor. This can reduce direct out-of-pocket costs.
- For moms on a tight budget, the Signature Pro provides professional quality at a more affordable price point. The SmartPump is the higher priced premium model.
- Features like the battery and connectivity make the SmartPump’s higher cost reasonable for moms who prioritize mobility and tracking.
Additional Factors To Consider
Along with the pros, cons, and direct feature comparisons, here are a few other factors moms may want to consider when deciding between the Lansinoh Signature Pro and SmartPump:
- How frequently you plan to pump daily – for occasional use, the SmartPump is likely sufficient, but moms who need to pump many times a day may want the Signature Pro’s higher capacity and shorter recharge times.
- Access to power outlets – if you need to pump on the go where finding an outlet may be challenging, the SmartPump’s cordless convenience is a major advantage.
- Pumping discreetly in public or at work – the SmartPump’s compact size, quiet operation, and battery make it ideal for subtle pumping on-the-go.
- Sharing with another user – the SmartPump allows you to track and separate each user’s data accurately through the app. The Signature Pro does not store separate user data.
- Resale value – the Signature Pro may retain resale value better over time since its features are not dependent on technology that can become outdated like the SmartPump’s app connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Based on performance, the Lansinoh Signature Pro is considered the overall best milk producing pump between these two options. Its higher maximum suction capacity along with the massage mode setting allows it to fully and efficiently extract breastmilk, even for moms with copious supply.
To help avoid mastitis, the Lansinoh Signature Pro may be the best choice. The massage mode provides suction variation that can help prevent milk duct blockages that lead to infection. And its strong suction thoroughly empties all breast tissue.
No, neither the Signature Pro nor the SmartPump are designed for the hospital/multi-user environment. However, both pumps use Lansinoh’s 2-Phase Expression technology found in their hospital grade pump to deliver professional quality results for personal at-home use.
Yes, both the SmartPump and Signature Pro feature closed system designs to prevent milk from backing up into the tubing and motor. This helps prevent milk contamination and mold growth. Closed systems are recommended by lactation professionals for optimal hygiene.
The Bottom Line
For moms needing a convenient, efficient, and effective double electric breast pump, both the Lansinoh SmartPump and Signature Pro are great options that provide professional quality results.
The Signature Pro is the more affordable choice and offers stronger suction, more customization, and thoughtful features like the night light. But it lacks portability.
The higher priced SmartPump gives you cordless mobility, intuitive touchscreen controls, and helpful app tracking. However, it has less fine-tuning capability and lower maximum suction.
Ultimately, choosing between the two pumps comes down to each mom’s priorities and needs for her own unique pumping and breastfeeding journey. Both Lansinoh pumps are designed with breast health in mind and can help nursing mothers successfully reach their feeding goals.