Okay - here's my story! :)
I have two girls.
#1 - she refused to latch on, so I ended up pumping exclusively and giving her breastmilk in a bottle for 6 months! Plus side - I had pumped a lot of milk that I was able to give her my milk for 9 months.
Baby #2 - she breastfed for one year. I reused the pump before and it worked great - man - I thought it would have worn out by now!!
I used the Medela Pump in Style. Yes, it's $300+ but think of how much money you're saving not buying Formula!! :)
I did use/rent the hospital pump for one month initially - to make sure - but both pumps worked for me.
Manual pumps are good for occasional use. If you go back to work, you want your pump to be heavy-duty and efficient.
:) BEST purchase I ever got!!
In your shoes since you're not too sure - I would rent for the first month. Or if a friend has a pump that isn't being used, you just buy the replaceable parts. It is fine to share it - no way to get it dirty or anything like that - same with the hospital pumps.
I have now passed on the pump to my friend to use for her baby...
Best wishes!