Medela Pump In Style MaxFlow Review

I brought my Medela Pump In Style MaxFlow, and right away, I could see that it was a huge upgrade from the Medela Pump In Style Advanced. It comes with its MaxFlow hospital-strength suction power, a simple design focused on efficiency and ease of use, and the choice between classic pump to bottles or hands-free collection cups.

But what else does the Medela Pump in Style MaxFlow bring to the table? And is it the Best Medela breast pump for you?

Check out my Medela Pump in Style MaxFlow review to find out!

• If you prefer to watch your reviews, there’s a video review right below. Then, you can skim the written review for more details.
• If you prefer to read your reviews, scroll past the video, and you’ll find my written review.

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My Medela Pump In Style MaxFlow Review

The Medela Pump In Style MaxFlow may come with some similar features to other Medela breast pumps, but it definitely brings its own unique experience to the table. I should also note that it is a huge step up from the older Medela Pump in Style Advanced which was a much larger pump motor and had an open system design.

With its impressive 2-Phase Expression® technology and an intuitive, closed system and compact design, the Max Flow is built to make pumping efficient and comfortable.

While I’m a big fan of its hospital-grade suction and options for milk collection containers, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before deciding if it’s the right choice for you.

So, let’s dive in and take a closer look at everything the Medela Pump in Style MaxFlow has to offer!

And if you’re torn between models, you might also want to check out my comparison of the Medela Pump In Style vs Freestyle to see how they stack up.

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

What I Love About the Medela Pump In Style with MaxFlow

When I’m reviewing a breast pump, I look at a few core features including suction power, ease of use, comfort, portability, and any standout details that could make it a hit or a miss.

For me, one of the highlights of the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow is it’s MaxFlow™ technology which uses micro-vibrations to make pumping more efficient.

With hospital-grade strength reaching up to 295mmHg and 10 adjustable suction levels, this pump really packs a punch! The 2-Phase Expression® technology even transitions between stimulation and expression modes automatically after one minute which I love for a streamlined pumping session.

When it comes to the milk collection containers I really like that you have the option to purchase your pump with either the classic pump to bottle design with the Medela PersonalFit Flex connectors and PersonalFit Flex flanges or the Medela Hands-Free collection cups. For me, this makes it much more versatile as you can choose a setup best for your needs.

Again, when it comes to how you plan to use your pump the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow comes with options. Whilst it needs to be plugged into a power source at all times, I do like that it comes with a battery pack that you can use to power your pump for up to 2 hours.

You can learn more about how to set it up in my guide on how to use Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow.

But there’s more to the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow’s performance and features, so let’s look at the other key pros and cons of this hospital grade breast pump.

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Performance and Efficiency

The Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow is one of the most powerful pumps in the Medela range. It delivers solid performance, especially with its hospital-grade suction strength of up to 295mmHg. It’s designed to give you an efficient pumping experience thanks to Medela’s MaxFlow™ technology, which uses micro-vibrations to boost milk expression.

Whilst it is certainly powerful, you only have two modes to choose from: stimulation and expression. The stimulation mode helps trigger letdown whilst the expression mode focuses on milk extraction. I do really like the auto mode switch after 1 minute, though if you’re slower to let down this may be annoying.

While it lacks a variety of modes, I think the 10 adjustable suction levels allow for enough customization to cater to your comfort and efficiency needs.

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Design

The Pump in Style follows the more traditional separate motor and tubing design, however unlike other Medela pumps that have this design like the Medela Sonata, the motor is still quite light weight at just 535g.

But what I really love with the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow is that you have options in terms of collection containers. And I love having options with a breast pump!

Firstly, depending on weather you buy the classic or hands-free version, you can pump directly into a bottle for easy storage or use the 5oz hands-free collection cups for added discretion.

For me, the benefits of the pump direct to bottle design is that you don’t need to transfer your breast milk for storage like you do with the collection cups. You simply add the bottle lid and store your breast milk accordingly. You can also purchase much larger 8oz bottles which are fantastic if you’re looking to pumping larger quantities.

Comfort

When it comes to comfort, the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow, again the outcome will vary based on the type of set up you choose: classic or hands-free version.

If you choose the classic pump to bottle design, this features the Medela’s PersonalFit Flex connectors, which are paired with their PersonalFit Flex flanges. These oval-shaped flanges have a unique 105-degree angle designed to mimic your baby’s natural latch and mouth positioning. This angle helps reduce discomfort and improves milk flow, making pumping a lot more comfortable, especially during long sessions. The soft outer rim also contributes to a better seal and adds an extra layer of comfort. As you can see in my Spectra vs Medela comparison, the PersonalFit flanges are something that really do well.

With the hands-free version of the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow the collection cups are made of hard silicone. They have a standard 90-degree angle.

With the classic design you’ll also find a much larger range of flange size options, however both have a good range of flange insert available. The standard flange size is 24mm, but you can easily swap in smaller or larger sizes (17mm, 19mm, and 21mm) to ensure the best fit for your body. And with many third-party flange options available, you can explore even more affordable alternatives if needed.

One thing I do love about the separate motor and collection container is that you don’t have to carry the additional weight of the pump motor on your chest, making this a great option for those that are looking for a lightweight pump.

Noise Levels

I’ll be honest, the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow is not a quite pump with noise levels around 58dB. It also has a very distinctive sound and while not obnoxious, you’ll notice it even with a bit of background noise.

User-Friendliness

If you want a simple to operate breast pump without the frills, then the Pump in Style with MaxFlow is a winner!

If you’re wanting a pump with an LED screen and more advance features such as app integration, you’re going to be disappointed.

I do think there is something to be said about having a simple and easy to use design, and the Pump in Style does offer that with its simple 4 buttons operation panel.

But for me, I do feel the lack of LED screen is a miss, even if it is just to see what mode or suction setting you are on.

There is also no inbuilt timer which again I feel is a letdown for user friendliness.

Portability

The Medela Pump in Style is not a wearable pump by any means, it is pretty large and clunky for the most part, but it does offer some portability which is nice.

Ideally, you’ll use the Pump in Style with MaxFlow plugged into a wall outlet, but it does come with a battery pack that can last up to 2 hours on a single charge. The problem for me is that the battery pack is no inbuilt and is not rechargeable, like on an all-in-one pump. The battery pack uses 8 x AA batteries for the 2 hour charge.

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Value for Money

The good news is in terms of price, the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow is one of the most affordable Medela electric breast pumps.

And if you look to buy the Classic Plus like I did, you also get a ton of accessories included.

Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow Classic+ Pump Kit Inclusions:

• Pump Motor * 1
• 5oz bottles with lids * 4
• Bottle stands * 2
• Tubing * 1
• 24mm PersonalFit Flex Flange * 2
• 21mm PersonalFit Flex Flange * 2
• PersonalFit Flex Connectors * 2
• Power adapter *1
• Battery pack *1
• Cooler * 1
• Cooling element * 1
• Microfiber diaper bag * 1

What I Wish Was Different

I think the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow is a solid choice, especially if you are getting it free through insurance, but there are a few areas where I think it could be improved.

First off, the pump is pretty loud, which can be a bit of a hassle if you’re trying to pump discreetly or in a shared space. That said this isn’t the pump I’d recommend if you are looking at pumping on the go.

Whilst this is a powerful breast pump, I would really have liked to have seen more than just the 2 modes. A third mixed mode would bring more functionality and customization to this pump in my opinion.

Another point to note is the lack of a timer or LED screen. While this isn’t a deal breaker, it does mean you’ll have to keep track of your session manually, which can be a bit of a hassle when you’re juggling other tasks. A built-in timer or display would definitely make it easier to manage your pumping sessions. Even connection with the Medela Family App would be a win.

I also wish the battery pack was rechargeable. Instead, the Medela Pump In Style uses 8 AA batteries, which you’ll need to replace periodically. This can be a bit inconvenient, especially for moms who pump frequently. It’d be great if the battery pack was rechargeable for added convenience and sustainability, but again this isn’t a pump I’d recommend for pumping on the go, so the battery pack is here nor there for me.

The Verdict

If you’re looking for a powerful yet easy-to-use breast pump, the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow is definitely worth considering.

With its MaxFlow technology featuring micro-vibrations and up to 295mmHg suction strength, it delivers a strong and efficient pumping experience. I also appreciate the flexibility to pump directly into bottles or use hands-free collection cups, and the 10 adjustable suction levels make it easy to personalize your sessions.

That said, it’s not without its downsides. If you’re after a more high-tech pump or something ultra-portable, this might not be the perfect fit.

So, what do you think? Is the Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow breast pump the right pump for you?