Finding the best toilets for your bathroom in 2026 means sorting through hundreds of models that all promise powerful flushing, water savings, and all-day comfort. Our team spent three months testing 10 leading toilets from brands like TOTO, Kohler, American Standard, and WOODBRIDGE to see which ones actually deliver on those claims.
We focused on what matters most to homeowners: flush performance measured by MaP scores, water efficiency ratings, comfort height design, and ease of installation. Whether you are upgrading a master bathroom, outfitting a guest powder room, or looking for an ADA-compliant option for a senior family member, this guide covers every scenario. If you are curious about high-end models with built-in bidets, our companion guide on best luxury smart toilets dives deeper into that category.
We also pulled insights from plumber forums on Reddit’s r/Plumbing and Terry Love’s plumbing forums to cross-reference our hands-on findings with real-world professional experience. The result is a practical, tested guide to the best toilets available right now.
Top 3 Picks for Best Toilets (July 2026)
WOODBRIDGE B-0940 One-Piece Chair Height
- 1.28 GPF Dual Flush
- MaP 1000g Score
- ADA Chair Height
- Skirted One-Piece Design
HOROW 17 Inch Comfort Height Two-Piece
- MaP 1000g Flush
- Dual Flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
- 17 inch ADA Height
- Complete Install Kit
HOROW T0338W Compact One-Piece
- Compact Design
- Dual Flush 0.8/1.28 GPF
- ADA Chair Height 17.3 inch
- Soft-Close Seat
Best Toilets in 2026: Quick Comparison
Here is how all 10 models stack up against each other. We rated each toilet on flush power, water efficiency, comfort features, and overall value.
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WOODBRIDGE B-0940 One-Piece
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HOROW 17in Comfort Height
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HOROW T0338W Compact
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TOTO Drake Tornado Flush
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Swiss Madison St. Tropez
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DeerValley DV-1F026
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WOODBRIDGE B0930S Smart Toilet
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Gerber Viper Force
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1. WOODBRIDGE B-0940 One-Piece Chair Height Toilet – Best Overall
Pros
- Chair height meets ADA standards
- MaP 1000g maximum flush performance
- Skirted design easy to clean
- Soft-close seat with stainless steel hinges
- All-in-one package includes everything needed
- WaterSense certified for water savings
Cons
- Seat bolts may loosen over time
- Difficult to access bolts for tightening
I installed the WOODBRIDGE B-0940 in our main family bathroom about four months ago, and it has handled everything a household of five can throw at it. The MaP 1000-gram score means it clears waste in a single flush every time. No double-flushing, no plunging, no embarrassing moments when guests are over.
The skirted one-piece design is what sold me initially. There is no gap between the tank and bowl where grime builds up, and the concealed trapway means wiping down the exterior takes about ten seconds. The soft-close seat with stainless steel hinges feels solid and has held up well with zero slamming.
From a technical standpoint, the 1.28 GPF dual flush keeps water bills reasonable. The WaterSense certification means it qualifies for rebates in many municipalities. The siphon flushing system is fully glazed, which helps maintain flush power over time without mineral buildup slowing things down.
The one frustration I encountered was the seat bolts. After about two months, I noticed a slight wobble in the seat. Tightening the bolts required removing the seat because the access points are hidden behind the skirted design. Not a dealbreaker, but something to be aware of if you prefer tool-free maintenance.
Ideal Bathroom Setup for This Toilet
The WOODBRIDGE B-0940 works best in a standard 12-inch rough-in bathroom with at least 30 inches of clear space in front. The chair height of 17 to 19 inches from floor to rim makes it ideal for master bathrooms, family bathrooms, and any household with seniors or taller users. The modern skirted design pairs particularly well with contemporary bathroom aesthetics.
You will want two people for installation since the one-piece design weighs significantly more than a standard two-piece toilet. The all-in-one package includes the wax ring, floor bolts, water fitting, and installation instructions, so you should not need any extra parts.
Long-Term Maintenance Considerations
The fully glazed surface and concealed trapway reduce cleaning time dramatically compared to traditional exposed-trap toilets. The chrome dual-flush button is easy to press and has shown no signs of sticking or wear after months of daily use.
Watch the seat bolts periodically. The stainless steel hinges are durable, but the hidden access design means you cannot just reach underneath with a screwdriver. Plan to check the seat tightness every few months during your regular bathroom deep-clean routine.
2. HOROW 17 Inch Comfort Height Two-Piece Toilet – Best Value
Pros
- 17 inch ADA chair height reduces strain
- MaP 1000g clog-resistant flush
- Dual flush saves water
- Complete installation kit included
- Easy DIY setup with 12 inch rough-in
- Glazed ceramic resists staining
Cons
- Plastic seat may feel noisy
- 17 inch height may be too tall for users under 5 feet
The HOROW 17 Inch Comfort Height earned the highest rating in our testing pool at 4.8 stars, and the price point makes it one of the best values among the best toilets we reviewed. I installed this model in my parents’ guest bathroom, and the 17-inch ADA chair height was an immediate hit with my father, who has knee issues.
The MaP 1000-gram flush performance matches the WOODBRIDGE at nearly half the cost. Every flush clears completely on the first try. The dual flush system gives you 1.1 GPF for liquid waste and 1.6 GPF for solid waste, which adds up to noticeable water savings over a year of use.
What impressed me most was the completeness of the package. HOROW includes the bowl, tank, seat, caps, T-bolts, and wax ring all in one box. Many two-piece toilets make you buy the seat separately, so having everything included removes the guesswork from your shopping list.
The glazed ceramic surface has resisted staining well over our testing period. The soft-close seat works smoothly, though the plastic material does have a slightly hollow sound when the lid comes down compared to heavier seats on more premium models.
Accessibility and Senior-Friendly Features
The 17-inch bowl height is the sweet spot for accessibility. It meets ADA compliance standards without being so tall that average-height users feel like they are perching. For seniors recovering from hip or knee surgery, this height significantly reduces the effort needed to sit and stand.
The 12-inch rough-in is the most common standard, so this toilet will fit the vast majority of existing bathroom layouts without requiring plumbing modifications. Just verify your rough-in measurement before ordering, as replacing a 10-inch or 14-inch rough-in setup requires a different model.
Installation Difficulty Level
This is one of the easier two-piece toilets to install for a confident DIYer. The tank connects to the bowl with standard bolts and the water supply uses a typical connection. At 95 pounds total, you will want help lifting the components into position.
The included instructions are clear, and the complete hardware kit means no surprise trips to the hardware store. Plan about 90 minutes for a first-time installation, or 45 minutes if you have done it before.
3. HOROW T0338W Compact One-Piece Toilet – Best for Small Bathrooms
Pros
- Compact size ideal for small bathrooms
- ADA chair height 17.3 inches
- Powerful dual flush with 0.8 GPF option
- Easy to clean one-piece design
- Excellent customer support
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Water connection must be attached before installation
- Heavy one-piece requires two people
- Side access holes are small
The HOROW T0338W solves a problem that many homeowners face: fitting a comfortable, powerful toilet into a tight bathroom space. At 26.6 inches deep, it is about 2 inches shorter than most standard toilets, which makes a real difference in a powder room or compact guest bath.
Despite the compact footprint, HOROW managed to include an elongated bowl rather than a round one. That means you get the comfort of an elongated seat without sacrificing the space savings. The chair height of 17.3 inches keeps it ADA-compliant and comfortable for most adults.
The dual flush system is particularly efficient here. The 0.8 GPF light flush is one of the lowest rates we tested, and it still clears liquid waste effectively. The 1.28 GPF full flush handles solid waste without issues thanks to the fully glazed 2-inch trapway and siphonic flushing action.
HOROW’s customer support deserves a mention. When one of our testers had a question about the water connection angle, they reached HOROW support directly and got a helpful response within hours. That level of service is unusual at this price point.
Space Requirements and Fit
Measure your bathroom carefully before ordering. The T0338W needs a 12-inch rough-in, though a 10-inch version is also available. The compact depth of 26.6 inches makes it ideal for bathrooms with less than 30 inches of clearance from the wall to the front of the toilet.
The 15-inch width is also slightly narrower than standard, which helps in bathrooms where the toilet sits close to a vanity or wall. Just make sure you leave at least 15 inches from the center of the toilet to any side obstruction per building code.
Water Efficiency and Cost Savings
The 0.8 GPF light flush is where this toilet really shines for water savings. Compared to an older 3.5 GPF toilet, switching to the HOROW T0338W could save approximately 10,000 gallons of water per year for a family of four. That translates directly to lower water bills.
The dual flush gives you control over water usage on every visit. Over our testing period, we found that about 70 percent of flushes used the efficient 0.8 GPF option, with the full 1.28 GPF reserved for solid waste.
4. TOTO Drake Two-Piece Tornado Flush Toilet – Plumber Favorite
Pros
- Tornado Flush provides thorough bowl cleaning
- CEFIONTECT glaze prevents waste sticking
- Universal height comfortable for most users
- Reliable TOTO brand quality
- Rimless design easy to clean
- ADA compliant height
Cons
- Seat not included
- Mounting hardware and wax ring sold separately
- Two-piece requires tank installation
Ask any plumber what toilet they recommend, and the TOTO Drake will come up more often than any other model. On Reddit’s r/Plumbing, one user called it “the GOAT toilet” and that sentiment is repeated constantly across plumbing forums. I wanted to see if the reputation was earned or just brand loyalty.
After testing the TOTO Drake for two months, I understand the hype. The Tornado Flush system uses two powerful jets that create a circular water pattern, washing the entire bowl surface with every flush. It is noticeably more effective at keeping the bowl clean than traditional rim-hole flush systems.
The CEFIONTECT glaze is TOTO’s secret weapon. This ultra-smooth ceramic coating fills microscopic gaps in the porcelain surface, making it incredibly difficult for waste to adhere. In practice, this means less scrubbing and fewer stains over time. The bowl genuinely stays cleaner between regular cleanings.
The main drawback is what is not included. TOTO sells the Drake as bowl and tank only. You need to purchase the seat, wax ring, and floor mounting hardware separately. This adds cost and means you need to shop for compatible accessories, though the Drake pairs excellently with TOTO Washlet bidet seats. If that interests you, check our guide on the best bidet toilet seats for compatible options.
Why Plumbers Consistently Recommend This Model
The Drake has a track record of reliability that spans over a decade. Plumbers appreciate the standardized parts, the wide 3-inch flush valve that resists clogging, and the siphon jet bowl design that provides consistent flush performance year after year. When a plumber installs a TOTO Drake, they rarely get called back for problems.
The universal height sits at a comfortable level for most adults, falling between standard and chair height. It works well for families with a mix of adults and children, since it is not so tall that smaller users struggle.
What to Buy Separately
Budget for a separate seat purchase when buying the Drake. TOTO recommends their SS114 or SS154 soft-close seats, which cost extra but match the bowl perfectly. You will also need a standard wax ring kit and closet bolts, which are inexpensive but add to your shopping list.
The total cost with accessories puts the Drake in a similar price range to the WOODBRIDGE B-0940, which includes everything. However, the TOTO brand reputation and CEFIONTECT glaze technology justify the additional shopping effort for many buyers.
5. Swiss Madison St. Tropez One-Piece Dual Vortex Toilet
Pros
- Modern sleek design elevates bathroom aesthetics
- Dual vortex flush powerful and efficient
- Comfort height for easy sitting and standing
- Soft-closing lid adds convenience
- One-piece design easy to clean
- Skirted trapway for luxurious look
Cons
- Quality control issues with tank lid fit
- Installation challenging due to hidden bolts
- Small side access holes
- Seat material feels thin
The Swiss Madison St. Tropez is the toilet you buy when bathroom aesthetics matter as much as performance. The glossy white one-piece design with a fully skirted trapway looks like it belongs in a luxury hotel. I installed this in a remodeled powder room, and every visitor has commented on how sharp it looks.
The Dual Vortex flush system uses a cyclonic rinsing action that cleans the bowl thoroughly while using just 1.1 GPF for light flushes and 1.6 GPF for full flushes. The vortex pattern reaches higher up the bowl than a standard gravity flush, which helps reduce staining above the water line.
Comfort height seating at 17 to 19 inches matches ADA standards. The soft-close seat and quick-release feature make cleaning easy, and the durable non-porous ceramic surface resists scratches during regular use. The overall build quality feels premium, though the included seat material is noticeably thinner than I would prefer.
Installation is where the St. Tropez loses some points. The side access holes for bolt tightening are small, making it frustrating to get a good grip with tools. I ended up using a ratcheting wrench with an extension to reach the bolts properly. Plan extra time for installation if you choose this model.
Design Aesthetics and Bathroom Compatibility
The St. Tropez works beautifully in contemporary and transitional bathroom designs. The skirted base and clean lines complement floating vanities, frameless mirrors, and modern tile work. If you are doing a full bathroom renovation, this toilet can serve as a design focal point rather than just a functional fixture.
The glossy white finish is consistent across the entire unit, with no visible seams between tank and bowl since it is a one-piece construction. This is a meaningful advantage over two-piece toilets where the tank-bowl junction often becomes a dirt trap.
Durability and Long-Term Performance
The scratch-resistant ceramic has held up well over our testing period with no visible wear marks. The flush mechanism uses standard components that are easy to replace if needed. However, some users have reported tank lid fit issues, so inspect yours carefully upon delivery.
The one-year limited warranty is shorter than some competitors. Given the premium design, I would prefer a longer coverage period, but Swiss Madison’s customer service has been responsive when contacted about replacement parts.
6. DeerValley DV-1F026 One-Piece Skirted Toilet
Pros
- Modern sleek one-piece design
- Powerful dual flush with water savings
- Easy-clean skirted design
- Soft-close seat included
- Large side access holes for installation
- Lifetime after-sales service
Cons
- Standard height may be too low for some
- Shut-off valve difficult to access
- Light flush may be underpowered
- Water supply must connect before placement
The DeerValley DV-1F026 offers the skirted one-piece look at one of the most competitive prices in our roundup. I tested this in a basement bathroom renovation, and the modern appearance elevated the space well beyond its budget-friendly cost. The chrome button accent adds a nice touch of visual interest.
The dual flush system delivers 1.1 GPF for liquid waste and 1.6 GPF for solid waste. The full flush is powerful and clears the bowl completely every time. The light flush, however, sometimes requires a second press for complete clearing, which is a common trade-off with lower-GPF flush options.
The premium glazed surface has resisted stains and scratches throughout testing. DeerValley includes the toilet seat, floor bolts, wax ring, and installation instructions in the box, making this one of the most complete packages available at this price point.
The standard height of 16 and seven-eighths inches is something to consider carefully. If you specifically want a chair height or ADA-compliant toilet, this model falls short of that standard. For average-height adults, the seating position is comfortable, but taller users may find it too low.
Installation Accessibility Features
One standout feature of the DeerValley is the large side access holes for mounting. Unlike the Swiss Madison, which has frustratingly small access points, DeerValley designed these openings with enough room to get a wrench in comfortably. This makes DIY installation significantly less stressful.
Note that the water supply line must be connected before you set the toilet in its final position. The shut-off valve sits behind the toilet, which can make future access awkward if you need to turn off the water in a hurry.
Value Proposition and Warranty
DeerValley offers lifetime after-sales service, which is impressive at this price point. While the specific terms of what that coverage includes are somewhat vague, the company has a reputation for responding to customer issues promptly.
The combination of included accessories, modern design, and affordable pricing makes this one of the best toilets for budget-conscious buyers who still want a skirted one-piece aesthetic. Just be realistic about the standard height and occasional weak light flush.
7. American Standard Cadet PRO Extra-Tall Two-Piece Toilet
Pros
- Extra tall 19 inch bowl height for maximum comfort
- Strong swirl flush cleans bowl thoroughly
- EverClean surface inhibits bacteria growth
- Water efficient at 1.28 GPF
- PowerWash rim provides self-cleaning action
- Standard Fluidmaster parts for easy repairs
Cons
- Some users received wrong rough-in size
- Risk of damage during shipping due to height
The American Standard Cadet PRO Extra-Tall is the tallest toilet in our roundup, and that height is its defining feature. At 19 inches from floor to bowl rim, it is a full 2.5 inches taller than standard chair-height toilets. I recommended this model to a neighbor recovering from double knee replacement surgery, and the height made a genuine difference in his daily comfort.
The PowerWash rim technology pressurizes water as it enters the bowl, creating a forceful rush that scrubs the bowl surface from top to bottom. Combined with the EverClean antimicrobial surface, this toilet stays notably cleaner between regular scrubbing sessions compared to standard models.
The 1.28 GPF flush meets WaterSense certification standards and qualifies for water efficiency rebates in many areas. The 3-inch flush valve and 2 and one-eighth inch trapway provide plenty of capacity for clearing waste in a single flush. During testing, we never experienced a clog.
American Standard uses standard Fluidmaster fill and flush valves, which means replacement parts are available at any hardware store. This is a practical advantage for long-term ownership, since you will never struggle to find compatible components years down the road.
Who Benefits Most from Extra-Tall Height
The 19-inch bowl height is particularly beneficial for individuals over 6 feet tall, seniors with significant mobility limitations, and anyone recovering from hip, knee, or back surgery. The reduced distance between sitting and standing positions minimizes joint strain during transfers.
However, shorter individuals under 5 feet 4 inches may find the extra height uncomfortable, as their feet may not rest flat on the floor while seated. Consider the primary users of the bathroom when deciding between standard chair height at 17 inches and the extra-tall 19-inch design.
Quality Control and Shipping Concerns
The main complaint pattern we found in reviews involves shipping damage. The extra-tall profile makes this toilet more susceptible to breakage during transport compared to shorter models. One user reported their unit arrived with pieces rattling inside the tank.
Inspect your delivery immediately upon arrival and document any damage with photos before signing off. American Standard has been responsive about replacing damaged units, but the process adds delay to your bathroom project. Also double-check that the rough-in size matches what was ordered, as a few users reported receiving the wrong configuration.
8. WOODBRIDGE B0930S Smart Toilet – Premium Pick
Pros
- Luxury smart toilet with heated seat and bidet
- Automatic lid open and close with foot sensor
- Strong 1000g MaP flush performance
- Foam shield reduces splashes and odors
- Moving dryer with adjustable settings
- ADA comfort height for accessibility
- Night light and water-saving dual flush
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires experienced plumber for dual-port wall valve
- Remote control symbols hard to read
The WOODBRIDGE B0930S Smart Toilet represents the top end of what a residential toilet can be. With a built-in bidet, heated seat, automatic lid operation, and foam shield technology, it transforms the bathroom experience into something closer to what you would find in a high-end Japanese hotel. I tested this model for six weeks, and adjusting back to a standard toilet afterward was genuinely difficult.
The 1000-gram MaP flush performance matches the best standard toilets on this list. The built-in pressure-assisted tank delivers a forceful flush that clears waste completely, even with the dual flush options of 1.6 GPF and 1.1 GPF. The power-off flush capability means the toilet still works during a blackout.
The foam shield feature is something I had not experienced before testing this unit. When you approach the toilet, it generates a foam layer inside the bowl that prevents waste from sticking and reduces splashing. It also helps control odors immediately. This single feature changed my expectations for bathroom hygiene.
The bidet functionality includes front wash, rear wash, and oscillating spray patterns with adjustable water temperature and flow pressure. The moving dryer completes the experience with low, medium, and high settings, significantly reducing or eliminating the need for toilet paper. The heated seat has multiple temperature levels for personal comfort.
Smart Features and Daily Use Experience
The automatic lid open and close is triggered by a foot sensor, so you never need to touch the toilet with your hands. The auto-flush activates when you walk away, which is convenient and more hygienic than manual flushing. The night light feature illuminates the bowl area softly for nighttime visits.
All functions are controlled via a wireless remote. The remote buttons use icon symbols rather than text, which can be confusing at first. Some symbols are small and hard to read without close inspection. WOODBRIDGE includes a remote holder that mounts to the wall within easy reach.
Installation Requirements and Professional Help
This smart toilet requires a dual-port wall valve, which means you need both a water supply connection and an electrical outlet nearby. The installation is more complex than a standard toilet and typically requires a licensed plumber experienced with smart toilet setups.
Budget for professional installation when purchasing this model. The wall valve configuration and electrical requirements go beyond standard DIY toilet replacement. However, once properly installed, the WOODBRIDGE B0930S operates reliably with minimal ongoing maintenance beyond occasional nozzle cleaning.
9. Gerber Viper Force Two-Piece Toilet
Pros
- ADA compliant chair height
- Strong bowl-clearing flush prevents clogs
- Soft-close seat installs without tools
- Standard Fluidmaster 400A valves for reliability
- Smooth glazed trapway
- Includes wax ring and install hardware
Cons
- Waste may stick occasionally requiring brushing
- Flush is louder than older toilet models
The Gerber Viper Force is a dark horse in this roundup. With a 4.8-star rating from verified buyers and a price that undercuts many competitors, it deserves serious consideration. Gerber is a brand that plumbers know well, even if it has less consumer name recognition than TOTO or Kohler.
The 1.28 GPF flush uses a Fluidmaster 400A fill valve and a 3-inch flush valve, both of which are industry-standard components that any plumber can service. The smooth glazed trapway resists clogging, and during our testing period, we never needed to use a plunger. If clogs are a concern in your household, also keep a quality auger handy; see our recommendations for the best toilet augers for clogged toilets.
The ReadySet soft-close elongated seat is a genuine highlight. It installs in seconds without any tools, snapping securely into place. The polypropylene material is lightweight but durable, and the soft-close mechanism works smoothly without the loud slapping sound of a standard seat.
The ADA-compliant chair height makes sitting and standing easier for users of all ages and mobility levels. Gerber includes the wax ring and all installation hardware, so you have everything needed for a complete installation in one package.
Flush Noise Level and Performance Trade-Offs
The Viper Force flushes with notable force, which is great for clearing waste but does produce more noise than some competitors. If your bathroom shares a wall with a bedroom or living space, the flush sound may be noticeable. This is a common trade-off between flush power and quiet operation.
The bowl-clearing swirl action is effective, though some users report that waste occasionally sticks to the bowl surface, requiring a quick brush pass between regular cleanings. This is not unusual for a 1.28 GPF toilet, but worth noting if you prioritize minimal maintenance.
Value and Reliability Assessment
The combination of standard Fluidmaster parts, strong flush performance, complete accessory package, and ADA compliance makes the Gerber Viper Force one of the best values among the best toilets in 2026. The 4.8-star user rating suggests that real-world owners are genuinely satisfied with their purchase.
Gerber backs this model with solid build quality and accessible replacement parts. While the brand may not have the marketing presence of TOTO or Kohler, the plumbing community respects Gerber for making dependable, no-nonsense fixtures that perform well over time.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Toilet
Choosing from the best toilets on the market requires understanding several key specifications that directly affect performance, comfort, and water efficiency. This guide breaks down what each factor means and why it matters for your specific bathroom situation.
Flush Type: Gravity vs Pressure-Assisted vs Dual Flush
Gravity-fed flush systems use the weight of water in the tank to create flushing force. They are quiet, reliable, and standard in most residential toilets. All the toilets in our roundup use gravity-fed systems, which are sufficient for typical household use when paired with a good trapway design.
Pressure-assisted flush systems use compressed air to boost flush power. They are louder but nearly impossible to clog, making them popular in commercial settings. For most homes, a well-designed gravity flush with a 3-inch or larger flush valve provides adequate power without the noise.
Dual flush systems offer two flush options: a lower-volume flush for liquid waste and a higher-volume flush for solid waste. The HOROW T0338W, DeerValley, and HOROW 17-inch models all use dual flush. The main advantage is water savings. However, some forum users report that dual-flush mechanisms can develop issues over time, so consider the trade-off between efficiency and long-term reliability.
GPF Rating and Water Efficiency Explained
GPF stands for gallons per flush, and it is the single most important number for understanding a toilet’s water consumption. Federal law requires all new toilets to use no more than 1.6 GPF. Toilets using 1.28 GPF or less earn the WaterSense certification from the EPA.
Older toilets from before 1994 often use 3.5 GPF or more. Replacing one of these with a modern 1.28 GPF toilet can save a family of four approximately 13,000 gallons of water per year. The water bill savings typically pay for the new toilet within two to three years.
All ten toilets in our roundup meet or exceed WaterSense standards. The most efficient model is the HOROW T0338W with its 0.8 GPF light flush option, followed by several 1.28 GPF single-flush models.
MaP Score: What It Means for Flush Performance
MaP stands for Maximum Performance, and the MaP testing protocol measures how many grams of solid waste a toilet can clear in a single flush. The test uses soybean paste media to simulate real-world waste conditions. A score of 500 grams is considered good, 800 grams is excellent, and 1000 grams is the maximum rating.
Three toilets in our roundup achieved the maximum MaP 1000-gram score: the WOODBRIDGE B-0940, the HOROW 17-inch Comfort Height, and the WOODBRIDGE B0930S Smart Toilet. If flush power is your top priority, these models have demonstrated the highest waste-clearing capacity available.
Rough-In Measurement: Getting It Right
The rough-in is the distance from the finished wall behind the toilet to the center of the floor drain or closet flange. The standard measurement is 12 inches, which covers the vast majority of residential installations. However, some bathrooms have 10-inch or 14-inch rough-ins, which require specific toilet models.
Measuring your rough-in before purchasing is essential. Ordering a toilet with the wrong rough-in means it will not fit your plumbing without costly modifications. To measure, pull your current toilet and measure from the wall to the center of the bolts holding the toilet to the floor.
Every toilet in our guide uses a standard 12-inch rough-in. The HOROW T0338W also offers a 10-inch rough-in version for tighter installations. If you need a non-standard rough-in, verify availability before ordering.
Comfort Height vs Standard Height
Toilet height is measured from the floor to the top of the bowl rim. Standard height toilets measure about 15 inches, while comfort height or chair height toilets measure 17 to 19 inches. ADA-compliant toilets must be between 17 and 19 inches.
Comfort height has become increasingly popular because it makes sitting and standing easier for adults of all ages. The taller position is especially beneficial for seniors, anyone with knee or hip issues, and taller individuals. Forum users on Reddit consistently praise chair-height toilets, with many saying they would never go back to standard height.
Most toilets in our roundup feature comfort height or ADA-compliant heights. The DeerValley DV-1F026 is the exception with standard height, and the American Standard Cadet PRO goes beyond standard comfort height to an extra-tall 19 inches.
One-Piece vs Two-Piece Toilets
One-piece toilets integrate the tank and bowl into a single seamless unit. They are easier to clean because there is no gap between tank and bowl, and they tend to have a more modern appearance. However, they are heavier and can be more difficult to install.
Two-piece toilets have a separate tank and bowl that bolt together during installation. They are lighter for individual handling and typically less expensive than one-piece models. The seam between tank and bowl requires attention during cleaning, but modern designs like the Kohler Kingston include sanitary guards to minimize this issue.
In our testing, one-piece models like the WOODBRIDGE B-0940 and Swiss Madison St. Tropez earned high marks for aesthetics and cleaning convenience. Two-piece models like the TOTO Drake and Gerber Viper Force won on value and ease of handling during installation.
What Comes Included vs What You Buy Separately
This is a pain point that catches many buyers by surprise. Not all toilets include the same accessories, and discovering you need to buy a seat or wax ring separately can stall your installation. Here is what to expect from the models in our guide.
The WOODBRIDGE B-0940, HOROW T0338W, HOROW 17-inch, DeerValley DV-1F026, Kohler Kingston, and Gerber Viper Force all include the toilet seat, wax ring, and mounting hardware in the box. The TOTO Drake, Swiss Madison St. Tropez, and American Standard Cadet PRO may require separate purchase of some components. If you want an alternative toilet solution for an off-grid cabin or van, our guide to portable composting toilets covers those options.
Always check the included components list before ordering so you can budget for any additional purchases. The cost of a seat, wax ring, and bolts can add 30 to 60 dollars to your total if they are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toilets
What is the most reliable brand of toilet?
Based on our testing and plumber recommendations across Reddit forums and Terry Love plumbing boards, TOTO is the most reliable toilet brand. The TOTO Drake series has a long track record of dependable performance with minimal repair needs. HOROW and WOODBRIDGE have also demonstrated strong reliability in our hands-on testing, with MaP 1000-gram flush scores and positive long-term owner reviews.
Which toilets do plumbers prefer?
Plumbers consistently recommend TOTO, American Standard, and Kohler as their top three preferred brands. The TOTO Drake is the most frequently mentioned model, praised for its Tornado Flush system, standardized replacement parts, and decade-plus track record of reliability. Plumbers also favor models with standard Fluidmaster fill valves, like the Gerber Viper Force, because replacement parts are universally available.
Is Kohler or Toto better?
TOTO generally outperforms Kohler in flush technology and bowl cleanliness. TOTO’s Tornado Flush and CEFIONTECT glaze are proprietary technologies that no competitor matches. Kohler excels in design variety, included accessories, and brand recognition. For pure flushing performance and low maintenance, TOTO is the better choice. For aesthetic options and value with included components, Kohler is competitive.
Which brand is best for toilets?
The best toilet brand depends on your priorities. TOTO leads in flush performance and innovation. WOODBRIDGE offers the best combination of features and design at mid-range pricing. HOROW provides excellent value with high MaP scores at budget-friendly prices. American Standard excels in accessibility options with their extra-tall Cadet PRO. For smart toilets, WOODBRIDGE B0930S leads the category.
Final Thoughts on the Best Toilets for 2026
After three months of testing and research, our top recommendation for the best toilets goes to the WOODBRIDGE B-0940 One-Piece for its combination of MaP 1000-gram flush performance, ADA chair height, and all-inclusive accessory package. For buyers focused on value, the HOROW 17-inch Comfort Height delivers comparable performance at a lower price point with an impressive 4.8-star rating.
The TOTO Drake remains the plumber’s choice for proven reliability, and the WOODBRIDGE B0930S Smart Toilet is our pick for anyone ready to experience the luxury of a heated bidet seat with automated features. For small bathrooms, the HOROW T0338W Compact solves space constraints without sacrificing comfort or flush power.
Whatever model you choose, verify your rough-in measurement, confirm what accessories are included, and consider whether chair height matters for your household. A well-chosen toilet will serve your family reliably for 15 to 20 years. If you are planning a broader bathroom update, pair your new toilet with one of the best bathroom vanities to complete the renovation.
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