You might want to rent one first, just get a feeling for the pump, and make sure that you really need one..Most hospitals will give you the option of renting a top-of-the-line breast pump. It'll be efficient, with a rapid cycling time (sucking 48 to 60 times a minute, which is really pumping!). If your baby was born prematurely, if you have twins, or if you plan to do a great deal of pumping, a heavy-duty hospital-grade pump might be a good choice for you.
If you decide to buy one, there are several options:
Top-end electric pumps
These combine the best features of hospital-grade pumps and more portable models. Top-end electric pumps are fully automatic, with quick cycling times, adjustable suction levels, and double-pumping capability. Some newer models are even designed to mimic your baby's sucking patterns. Weighing in at 8 pounds or less, some of these come in attractive carrying cases with accessories — storage bags, labels, clips, bottles, and nipple ointment — included. Most top-end pumps can be run on a car lighter with an adapter that's sold separately, and some even come with a built-in battery pack.Pump prices range from around $200 to around $320.
Brand: Medela, Playtex
Mid-range electric pumps
The models in this category take a little longer and require a little more effort to use than the top-end electric pumps, but they're more portable (most weigh less than 2 lbs.) and more affordable. Most moms who use them find them perfectly adequate. They have medium cycling times, adjustable suction, and, usually, double-pumping capability. Some mid-range electric pumps can be run on a car lighter with an adapter. Prices range from around $75 to $180.
Brands: The first years, Ameda
Inexpensive electric or battery pumps
Some women are perfectly happy with these pumps, but others find that they're not such a great deal. Most will allow you to pump only one breast at a time, and slowly at that. Some models are semiautomatic, which means they tend toward long cycling times (some produce only about 12 sucks per minute). The batteries need frequent replacing, and the suction is often too strong or too weak. While there are some double electric pumps in this less expensive category, the motors may not last as long as those in the more expensive models. Some women find they can't get much milk out with these pumps; others say they hurt their breasts.Prices range from $30 to $80.
Brands: avenflo, the first years
Nonelectric, manual pumps
Manual pumps require you to pump a piston or squeeze a lever to empty your breast. These pumps empty only one breast at a time and usually require two hands to operate, although a few are designed for one-handed use. While most working moms who need to pump exclusively (and bottle-feed with breast milk rather than nurse) opt for a more efficient electric, some women rave about manual pumps. Stay away from the models that look like bicycle horns — the rubber balls can harbor harmful bacteria.Prices range from $35 to $50. a lot of brands..
We use Medela, because it is one of the top-end electric pumps and it is very reliable, but the choice is yours, it all depends on your own situation...BTW, I had some review on Medela and Ameda in this board before...