REASONS TO BUY
Easy to use
Silent
Comfortable silicone
Portable
REASONS TO AVOID
Less efficient
One-sided
Potential milk loss
Haakaa Gen 1 Review
A relatively efficient, inexpensive, and user-friendly passive system that operates without the need for manual hand pumping
Unlike other breast pumps in our review, the Haakaa is a passive letdown system known for its simplicity and silent operation.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
RELATED: Best Breast Pumps of 2024
The Skinny
The Haakaa Gen 1 is unlike traditional pumps, so it struggles in most metrics. However, we think it's worth mentioning as it's great for passive letdown to collect breast milk or alleviate breast engorgement. It functions without hand or electric pumping; the initial suction is the only pull for milk expression, and it's easy to apply and comfortable to wear. You can use it while breastfeeding your baby on the opposite side or when you need to express milk discreetly. The Haakaa is somewhat on the small side, and while it shows a 4-ounce cup, it holds less milk due to potential spillage. While it doesn't deliver the same performance as other pumps in our best breast pumps review, we think it serves a purpose for specific situations when an electric pump would be overkill.
Editor's Note: We updated the Haakaa's gear review on November 15, 2023. With a significant update to the breast pump review and our testing methods, we provide an in-depth comparison of this product against the competition.
Compare to Similar Products
 This Product
Haakaa Gen 1 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards |  |  |  | ||
| Price | $23 List $12.94 at Amazon | $216 List $198.70 at Amazon | $190 List $189.99 at Amazon | $33 List $24.94 at Amazon | $42 List $23.94 at Amazon |
Overall Score  |
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| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | A cost-effective option designed for passive letdown pumping to collect milk or provide relief from breast engorgement | A superior breast pump that's high-quality, efficient, and easy to use | Despite occasional reports of strong suction, this portable pump provides portability and efficient milk expression | Offering simplicity and convenience, this affordable and portable choice performs well in our tests | A portable option for on-the-go moms or those who don't frequently pump, though it does demand more effort compared to electric pumps |
| Rating Categories | Haakaa Gen 1 | Spectra S1 Plus | Baby Buddha | Lansinoh Manual Bre... | Medela Harmony with... |
| Efficiency (35%) | |||||
| Comfort (25%) | |||||
| Ease of Use (15%) | |||||
| Portability (15%) | |||||
| Hygiene (10%) | |||||
| Specs | Haakaa Gen 1 | Spectra S1 Plus | Baby Buddha | Lansinoh Manual Bre... | Medela Harmony with... |
| Measured Ounces per Minute | 0.19 | 0.55 | 0.45 | 0.28 | 0.13 |
| Measured Suction | n/a | 250 mmHg | 290 mmHg | 200 mmHg | 240 mmHg |
| # of Suction Settings | 1 | 12 | 14 | 2 | 2 |
| Measured Weight of Pump with Two Bottles | 0.2 Ibs (one cup) | 3.1Ibs | 1.1 Ibs | .2 Ibs (one bottle) | 0.4 Ibs (one bottle) |
| Available Flange Sizes from Manu | 30mm | 20mm, 24mm, 28mm, 32mm | 21mm, 24mm, 28mm, 32mm | 21mm, 25mm, 30.5mm, 36 | 24mm |
| Open/Closed System | Open | Closed | Closed | Closed | Open |
| Capability | Single | Double | Double | Single | Single |
| Power Source | Manual | Rechargeable Battery | Rechargeable Battery | Manual | Manual |
| Manufacturer Claimed Battery Life | n/a | Up to 3 hours | Up to 1 hour | n/a | n/a |
| App | No | No | No | No | No |
| Night Light Feature? | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Measured Weight | .2 Ibs | 2.9 Ibs | .8Ibs | .3 Ibs | .3 Ibs |
| Included Bottle Holder or Base? | No - n/a | Yes - one built-in bottler holder | Yes - bottle base | Yes - bottle base | Yes - bottle base |
| What's in the Box | Cup | 2 24mm Spectra Breast Flanges 2 28mm Spectra Breast Flanges 2 Spectra Tubing 2 Spectra Duckbill Valves 2 Spectra Backflow Protectors. Includes silicone membrane, uppercase, and lowercase for each Backflow Protector 2 Spectra Wide Neck Storage Bottles. Includes nipple, disc, cap, and cover for each bottle 1 Spectra 12V AC Power Adapter/Charger |
Baby Buddha Rechargeable Breast Pump Unit (Black) 2 24mm Flanges 2 Sets of Duckbill Valves 1 Pair of Silicone Diaphragms 2 Bottles 2 Bottle Bases 2 Bottle Storage Caps 2 Bottle Hygiene Covers 2 Pump Covers 3 detachable tubes & T-connector. USB-C Charging Cable (charge to full in 4 hours) Lanyard Carrying Tote |
2 ComfortFit® flanges (25mm & 30.5mm) 1 Lansinoh® breastmilk storage bottle (5oz) 1 Manual Pump Body, stem, handle, silicone diaphragm 1 White valve 1 Bottle stand 1 Bottle cap and bottle collar 1 NaturalWave® slow-flow nipple 1 Bottle storage lid |
1 Harmony Breast Pump 1 PersonalFit™ (24 mm) Breast Shield 1 5 oz/150 mL Breast milk bottle with lid and stand 1 Valve 1 Instructions for use and Breastfeeding Information Guide |
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Our Analysis and Test Results
The Eastrock LLC company represents the Haakaa USA, and its roots date back to 2007. Eastrock is dedicated to bringing eco-friendly and natural products to the US and Canadian markets. Haakaa, a family-owned business from New Zealand, is committed to creating products that are functional, stylish, and environmentally conscious.
Performance Comparison
Using the power of suction to express milk, the Hakaa Gen 1 is discreet and silent.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Efficiency
Unlike many other pumps we've tested, the Haakaa is a passive letdown hand pump. While it's effective, it doesn't compare to other pumps.
This Haakaa operates by utilizing a squeeze to create suction around the nipple, and from there, you simply let it work its magic. It can help relieve pressure on one side while your baby nurses, during moments of engorgement, or for occasional use, especially while traveling. It's also a solution for moms with a strong letdown and leaks between feedings.
Remember that this pump isn't as efficient as the manual and electric competition. On average, in our tests, it expressed 0.19 oz of milk from the Emulait bottle, and in a 20-minute timeframe, it reached a total of 3.5 - 4 oz of milk. While it can't substitute for an electric pump, we believe this unique pump has its place for certain moms. Also, avoid filling the pump to the brim. Overfilling can make it challenging to manage and, more importantly, may cause loss of precious milk.
The silicone material of the Haakaa is soft and flexible, allowing the pump to conform to the breast's shape and create a good seal.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Comfort
What's not to love about a soft silicone product? It brings comfort and gentle suction. However, it doesn't check all the boxes regarding this test metric.
This pump comes in one size, 30 mm, and it only has one power level from the suction. While it provides a gentle and comfortable experience, we do appreciate a bit more variety in settings to help moms customize their pumping sessions for comfort.
The pliable silicone material is a standout feature, adding that extra touch of comfort, and it's a welcome contrast compared to some rigid plastic options in the review. The sizing of the Haakaa is well-suited for those with average-sized breasts, as we noticed users mentioning that it may not be the best choice for those with significantly smaller or larger chests.
Ease of Use
Overall, this pump is easy to use.
Using the Haakaa is straightforward. Although there's no user manual included with the product and no directions on the packaging, it doesn't have a steep learning curve to become a pro. Keep in mind that this pump relies on suction, so if it's improperly applied or knocked by a kicking baby's foot, it can potentially lead to spilled milk. Losing expressed milk, especially for those working hard to build and maintain their supply, can be disheartening. Therefore, it's wise to be mindful and attentive during use to avoid spills.
Portability
This product is highly portable.
It's silent and compact, making it ideal for collecting extra milk instead of being absorbed by a breast pad or nursing bra.
The Haakaa consists of a single piece of silicone, simplifying the cleaning process.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Hygiene
Compared to the competition, this pump is incredibly easy to clean. Most notably, it's not a closed system, which keeps it from ranking higher.
We had no problem cleaning the pump; a standard bottle brush makes the task a breeze. Keep in mind that the silicone material can collect particles and lint.
To apply the pump, squeeze the base of the Haakaa to create a gentle vacuum and center the flange over your nipple.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Should You Buy the Haakaa Gen 1?
The Haakaa Gen 1 fills a niche and is particularly beneficial for certain scenarios. It's great for managing leakage on one breast while nursing on the other, and the suction collects milk that would otherwise be wasted in a breast pad or make a mess. It may not meet the demands of those who pump frequently, but if you're looking for a passive letdown system, we think the Haakaa is great.
What Other Breast Pumps Should You Consider?
It's important to consider your goals and budget when selecting a top-ranked breast pump. If you're eyeing the Haakaa, you're probably looking for a simple pump for occasional use, not a workhorse electric pump. The Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump is lightweight, portable, and affordable. For an efficient and portable pump, consider the Baby Buddha. It comes with a lanyard for those busy moments when you need your hands free.
Manufacturer Video
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Juliet Spurrier, MD and Molly Bradac
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