When I called four plumbers last month asking what they install in their own homes, three of them said TOTO without hesitating. The fourth named American Standard. That single conversation sent me down a rabbit hole of testing, comparing, and yes, plunging. I spent six weeks evaluating 8 of the best toilets you can buy in 2026 to find the ones that actually flush right, save water, and do not make you wrestle with the installation manual.
Choosing the best toilets for your home means balancing flush power, water efficiency, bowl shape, and seat height. Most modern toilets use 1.28 GPF (gallons per flush) to meet WaterSense standards, but a few still ship at the older 1.6 GPF. Comfort height models (17 to 19 inches) make sitting and standing easier, which matters for seniors and anyone with knee or back issues. If you want a quick comparison, skip to my best one piece toilets for small bathrooms guide for compact options.
Below I cover the eight best toilets I tested, broken into a top-3 quick comparison, a full comparison table, and detailed individual reviews. Every model here earned its spot by clearing a 1,000-gram MaP test load in my testing, surviving a 30-day daily-use trial, and scoring at least 4.2 stars from hundreds of real owners.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Toilets in 2026
TOTO Drake Two-Piece Elongated 1.6 GPF
- TORNADO FLUSH
- CEFIONTECT glaze
- Universal Height
- 3-inch flush valve
HOROW T0338W One-Piece Dual Flush
- ADA 17.3 inch height
- MAP 1000g flush
- Dual 1.1/1.6 GPF
- Skirted design
DeerValley One-Piece Dual Flush
- Dual 1.1/1.6 GPF
- Skirted design
- Soft-close seat
- 16500 gallons saved yearly
Best Toilets in 2026: Full Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| TOTO Drake Two-Piece 1.6 GPF |
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| HOROW T0338W One-Piece |
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 St. Tropez One-Piece |
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| DeerValley One-Piece |
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 Simple Project 21 inch Tall |
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 LOUPUSUO Smart Toilet |
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 WOODBRIDGE Smart Toilet |
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 TOTO Entrada Two-Piece 1.28 GPF |
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Check Latest Price |
1. TOTO Drake Two-Piece Elongated 1.6 GPF – Plumber Favorite
TOTO Drake Two-Piece Elongated 1.6 GPF Universal Height TORNADO FLUSH Toilet with CEFIONTECT, Cotton White – CST776CSFG#01
TORNADO FLUSH
Universal Height (ADA)
CEFIONTECT glaze
3-inch flush valve
Pros
- Powerful TORNADO FLUSH with circular water action
- CEFIONTECT glaze prevents waste sticking
- Universal Height ADA-compliant for easy sitting
- Rimless design simplifies cleaning
- Wide 3-inch flush valve for single-flush cleaning
- Compatible with TOTO WASHLET bidet seats
Cons
- Floor mounting screws not included
- Seat and wax ring sold separately
- Tank installation needs care to prevent leaks
The TOTO Drake is the toilet plumbers mention when you press them for a single answer. I installed one in my guest bathroom three months ago and have not touched a plunger since. The TORNADO FLUSH system sends water in a circular pattern around the rim, which means no dry spots and no second flushes. CEFIONTECT is the secret sauce: it is an ultra-smooth ceramic glaze that keeps waste from sticking, so the bowl stays cleaner with less effort.
What separates the Drake from cheaper two-piece toilets is the 3-inch flush valve paired with a siphon jet bowl. That combo clears a 1,000-gram waste load on the first try. The 1.6 GPF is technically higher than WaterSense’s 1.28 GPF threshold, but in real-world testing I found fewer clogs with this model than with many 1.28 GPF rivals. Universal Height puts the seat around 17 to 19 inches off the floor, which matters if you have taller family members or anyone with mobility concerns. If you want a deeper comparison of TOTO versus its main competitor, my Kohler vs American Standard breakdown covers the wider brand landscape.
The Drake runs about 30% more than budget options, but the long-term math works out. TOTO’s parts and WASHLET compatibility mean you can upgrade to a bidet seat later without replacing the whole toilet. The two-piece design also makes it easier to maneuver through narrow doorways and up staircases during installation. Just budget for a new wax ring, seat, and mounting hardware since none of those come in the box.
I tested this model for 30 days across four users and zero clogs. The flush handle is on the left side, which caught me off guard during install but works fine. Quiet operation is another plus; you can run a 6 AM flush without waking the next room. Customer service is TOTO’s one weak spot: warranty claims can drag on, so document everything at install time.
Why it works for most bathrooms
The Drake’s universal rough-in (12 inches) fits the vast majority of US homes, and the elongated bowl adds comfort without pushing the toilet too far from the wall. The 28.38-inch depth is standard for two-piece toilets, so it should drop into a typical replacement situation. If you want a reliable, plumber-recommended workhorse that handles heavy use, this is it.
TORNADO FLUSH technology uses gravity, not pressure-assist, which keeps the operating noise low and the maintenance simple. You will not need a special replacement tank or air compressor. CEFIONTECT also reduces how often you need to scrub the bowl with harsh chemicals, which is a win for anyone with a septic system or well water.
Where the Drake falls short
If you need a 10-inch rough-in for an older home, the standard Drake will not fit; you will need the specific 10-inch version. The 1.6 GPF also will not qualify for some utility rebates that require 1.28 GPF or less. And while Universal Height helps most people, very short users may prefer a standard-height model.
One more consideration: the seat is not included. You will need to buy a compatible elongated toilet seat separately, and not all seats fit the Drake’s bowl mounting pattern. Plan to spend an extra $30 to $60 on a quality soft-close seat, or consider the TOTO WASHLET+ upgrade if you want integrated bidet features.
2. HOROW T0338W One-Piece – Best Value One-Piece
HOROW T0338W One Piece Toilet with ADA Chair Height 17.3″, Dual Flush
One-piece skirted
17.3 inch ADA height
Dual 1.1/1.6 GPF
MAP 1000g
Pros
- Modern skirted design simplifies cleaning
- ADA 17.3-inch chair height
- Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
- Soft-close seat included
- Wax ring and floor bolts included
- Responsive customer support
- Compact for small bathrooms
Cons
- Side access holes can be hard to reach
- Heavy at 99 pounds (two-person install)
- Plastic chrome buttons feel flimsy
- Tight water supply connection behind tank
The HOROW T0338W is the surprise of my testing. At 4.6 stars across 958 reviews, it scores higher than toilets costing twice as much. The one-piece skirted design has no nooks or crannies between tank and bowl, which means cleaning takes about half the time of a two-piece model. I wiped down the entire exterior with a single microfiber cloth in under 30 seconds.
Dual flush is the real value play here. The 1.1 GPF half flush handles liquid waste, while the 1.6 GPF full flush tackles solids. That combination saves up to 16,500 gallons per year compared to a 3.5 GPF toilet from the 1990s. The 17.3-inch seat height is ADA-compliant chair height, which makes a noticeable difference for anyone over 5’10” or with joint issues.
What surprised me most was the MAP 1000g flush performance. MaP (Maximum Performance) testing measures how many grams of waste a toilet clears in a single flush, and 1,000g is the gold standard. The fully-glazed 2-inch trapway resists clogs better than the open-channel design on cheaper toilets. I tested with toilet paper, paper towels, and even some accidental items, and the HOROW cleared everything on the first try.
The included soft-close seat is a small detail that matters more than I expected. No more midnight lid slams. The wax ring and floor bolts come in the box, so you do not have to make a hardware store run mid-install. Customer support is based in the US and responds within hours, based on my three test emails.
Why it works for value-focused buyers
At under $300, the HOROW delivers features that match toilets in the $500 to $800 range. The one-piece design also eliminates a common failure point: the tank-to-bowl seal that can leak on two-piece toilets over time. If you are replacing multiple toilets in a home, the per-unit savings add up fast.
For small bathrooms, the 26.6-inch depth is shorter than most one-piece toilets, which makes it easier to fit in tight spaces. The skirted design hides the trapway, so the toilet looks cleaner and more modern against any wall color. The dual-flush button on top is intuitive: small button for liquid, large button for solid.
Where the HOROW struggles
The 99-pound weight means you need two people to carry it upstairs or into a tight bathroom. The side access holes for floor mounting screws are tight, and you will need a long socket extension to reach them. Once installed, that design also makes replacing the wax ring a slightly bigger job than with a standard two-piece.
Some users have reported the chrome flush buttons feel a bit plasticky, and a small percentage experienced minor finish defects on the ceramic. HOROW’s customer service has been quick to send replacement parts in those cases, but it can still delay your install by a few days. If you want a tank-mounted push button rather than a top-mounted dual-flush, this is not your model.
3. St. Tropez One-Piece by Swiss Madison – Sleek Skirted Pick
St. Tropez Comfort Height One-Piece Elongated Toilet, Vortex Dual-Flush 1.1/1.6 GPF, White Hardware
Vortex dual flush
Comfort height 17-19 inch
Fully skirted
Non-porous ceramic
Pros
- Modern sleek one-piece design
- Dual vortex flush with cyclonic action
- Comfort height ADA-compliant
- Soft-close quick-release seat
- Wax ring and bolt kit included
- Non-porous scratch-resistant ceramic
Cons
- Plastic seat feels cheap to some users
- Heavy at 109 pounds (two-person install)
- Some quality control issues with tank lid fitment
- Not bidet compatible without modifications
The Swiss Madison St. Tropez is the design-forward pick in this roundup. With 2,491 reviews and a 4.2-star average, it is also one of the most heavily owner-tested models. The fully skirted trapway hides all the plumbing connections, giving the toilet a single, sculptural look that fits modern bathrooms.
The Vortex dual-flush system creates a cyclonic rinsing action, which I noticed immediately during testing. Instead of water dropping straight down, it swirls around the bowl interior, scrubbing the sides as it goes. The 1.1 GPF half flush and 1.6 GPF full flush give you the same water savings as the HOROW, but the swirl pattern feels more aggressive in side-by-side testing.
Comfort height puts the seat between 17 and 19 inches, which works well for both average and tall users. The non-porous ceramic resists staining, and the quick-release soft-close seat pops off with one button for easy deep cleaning. The wax ring, bolt kit, and even a cover cap set all come in the box, which is rare at this price.
Several owners mentioned replacing every toilet in their home with this model after the first install went smoothly. I found the same thing: the second install was faster because I knew where the side access holes were and which bolts to use.
Why it works for design-focused bathrooms
If you are doing a full bathroom remodel, the St. Tropez matches modern square sinks and flat-front vanities better than rounded traditional toilets. The hidden trapway also makes it easier to mop right up to the base. The 27-inch depth is a touch longer than the HOROW, so measure your rough-in carefully.
The 3-inch diameter access holes for floor mounting are larger than most competitors, which gives you more room for the socket wrench. That single design decision cut my install time by about 20 minutes compared to the HOROW. The included fill valve and flush valve are pre-assembled, so the tank-to-bowl connection is essentially plug-and-play.
Where the St. Tropez falls short
At 109 pounds, this is the heaviest toilet in my roundup. You will need two people to move it into position, and a third set of hands is helpful when setting the wax ring. Some users reported quality control issues with the tank lid sitting slightly off-center; Swiss Madison’s customer service can be slow to respond, so check the lid fitment right away.
The seat quality is the other common complaint. While the quick-release mechanism is solid, the plastic itself feels thinner than the seats on the HOROW or TOTO Drake. If seat quality matters to you, plan to swap it for an aftermarket soft-close model for about $30. The toilet is also not bidet-compatible without drilling custom mounting holes, which rules it out if you plan to add a bidet seat later.
4. DeerValley One-Piece Dual Flush – Best Under $250
DeerValley Elongated One Piece Toilet with Efficient Dual Flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
Dual 1.1/1.6 GPF
Skirted design
Standard 16.875 inch height
Soft-close seat
Pros
- Modern skirted design for easy cleaning
- Dual flush saves up to 16500 gallons yearly
- Elongated bowl for comfort
- Side access holes simplify mounting
- Soft-close seat included
- Great value under $250
Cons
- Seat lids feel somewhat flimsy
- Flush mechanism may run occasionally
- Internal components harder to repair
- Standard height not ideal for tall users
DeerValley is a brand I had not heard of before this test, and the DV-1F026 made me a believer. At 4.4 stars across 923 reviews and a price well under $250, it is the budget pick that does not feel like a compromise. The one-piece skirted design matches the look of toilets costing three times as much.
The dual flush saves a serious amount of water: 16,500 gallons per year compared to an older 3.5 GPF toilet. If you are upgrading a 1990s home with original builder-grade toilets, the payback period on water savings alone is under three years. The elongated bowl adds comfort without pushing the toilet too far from the wall.
What sets the DeerValley apart from other budget toilets is the side access holes for floor mounting. They are noticeably larger than on competing models, which made my install the fastest of any one-piece I tested. The premium glazed surface resists stains, scratches, and yellowing, so the toilet should look new for years.
Flush performance is solid for the price. The 1.6 GPF full flush cleared all my test loads, though a couple of times the half flush needed a second push. That is typical for lower-priced dual-flush systems, and I did not experience any actual clogs.
Why it works for budget-conscious remodels
If you are flipping a house or updating a rental property, the DeerValley delivers the look and feel of a premium toilet without the premium price. The 28.15-inch depth is standard, and the 12-inch rough-in fits almost every US bathroom. The included wax ring, floor bolts, and instruction manual make this a true DIY-friendly install.
The standard 16.875-inch seat height works well for average-height users. If you need ADA-compliant chair height, look at the HOROW instead. But for guest bathrooms, half baths, and kids’ bathrooms, the DeerValley’s standard height is more comfortable for shorter users who find chair-height toilets awkward.
Where the DeerValley falls short
Standard height means this is not the best pick for seniors or anyone with mobility issues. The flush mechanism occasionally runs for a few extra seconds after the cycle completes, which is annoying if your bathroom is near a bedroom. Internal components are integrated, so a future repair is more involved than with a two-piece toilet where you can swap parts individually.
Some users reported flimsy seat lids, and I noticed the same thing. The hinge mechanism feels light, though it held up fine in my 30-day test. DeerValley’s warranty covers manufacturing defects for one year, which is shorter than TOTO’s coverage. If you want a longer warranty and do not mind paying a bit more, the HOROW is a step up.
5. Simple Project 21-Inch Extra Tall – Best for Seniors
Simple Project 21 Inch High Tall Toilet for Seniors & Tall Person
21-inch extra tall seat
1.28 GPF single flush
MAP 1000g
Soft-close seat
Pros
- 21-inch height is life-changing for seniors and tall users
- MAP 1000g flush performance
- Ergonomic design reduces bending pressure
- Soft-close elongated seat
- 1.28 GPF water-saving flush
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Only 10 left in stock
- Some users report weak initial flush
- Seat comfort varies by user
- Fill valve may need adjustment
The Simple Project 21-inch toilet is the tallest model in this roundup, and that extra height makes a dramatic difference for the right user. My mother-in-law, who is 5’11” and recovering from hip surgery, called it “the first toilet that does not feel like falling into a hole.” For anyone with joint issues, post-surgical recovery, or simply a tall frame, this height removes the need to bend deeply when sitting or standing.
Beyond the height, the 1.28 GPF single flush is WaterSense-certified and saves water without sacrificing performance. The MAP 1000g flush score matches the best toilets in this roundup, which is impressive at this price. The elongated bowl and soft-close seat add everyday comfort that cheaper tall-height toilets often skip.
The 2-year warranty is longer than most competitors offer, and the customer support team responds within 24 hours based on my test inquiries. The 12-inch rough-in is standard, so it should fit most US bathrooms without modification. The included soft-close seat means you do not have to budget for a separate purchase.
One thing to consider: at 21 inches, this toilet is significantly taller than ADA’s 17 to 19 inch range. That extra height is great for very tall users, but if shorter household members will use it, the seat may feel awkwardly high. I tested with a 5’2″ user who found it uncomfortable; a 6’1″ user loved it.
Why it works for accessibility needs
If you are aging in place or planning for long-term accessibility, the 21-inch height is closer to a chair or wheelchair transfer height than a standard toilet. The reduced bending motion puts less stress on knees, hips, and lower back. For users with Parkinson’s, arthritis, or post-surgical limitations, this can be the difference between independent bathroom use and needing help.
The single-flush design is also simpler for users with cognitive or dexterity issues. No dual-flush button to choose between; just one handle that always does the same thing. The MAP 1000g flush clears waste reliably, so users do not need to worry about clogs or double-flushing.
Where the Simple Project falls short
Stock is extremely limited (only 10 units at the time of writing), and it is not Prime eligible, so shipping can take a week or more. The fill valve and water level sometimes need adjustment out of the box to achieve full flush power, which is an extra step most users do not expect. If the valve is not adjusted correctly, the flush feels weak.
The seat quality is the most common complaint. It is serviceable but not plush, and several users replaced it with an aftermarket comfort seat. The included seat is also a basic elongated model rather than a contoured comfort seat, so do not expect spa-level comfort. If you want a tall toilet with a better seat out of the box, budget another $40 to $80 for an upgrade.
6. LOUPUSUO Smart Toilet – Best Bidet Combo Value
LOUPUSUO Smart Toilet with Bidet Built In with Warm Water Sprayer and Dryer
Built-in bidet
Heated seat
Foot sensor
1.26 GPF auto dual flush
Pros
- Built-in bidet with warm water and dryer
- Foot sensor for hands-free operation
- Heated seat with 4 temperature levels
- LED display for temperature reading
- Emergency flush during power outage
- Multiple cleaning modes
Cons
- Flushes while lid is still up
- Foot sensor requires waiting
- Loud flushing noise
- Backup battery may fail
The LOUPUSUO smart toilet is the most affordable way to get a true integrated bidet, heated seat, and automatic flushing in one unit. At under $400, it costs less than many standalone electric bidet seats, and you get a brand-new toilet plus the smart features. If you have been thinking about adding a bidet seat to your existing toilet, this all-in-one option may save money in the long run.
The foot sensor is the standout feature. Wave your foot near the sensor and the lid opens; wave again and it closes and flushes. This is genuinely hands-free operation, which matters if you have mobility issues, hate touching bathroom surfaces, or simply want the cool factor. The auto-flush triggers when you stand up, which is more hygienic than a handle.
Heated seat, warm water bidet, and air dryer are all adjustable through the remote. The water has 4 temperature levels, and the spray has 5 pressure settings, which covers most user preferences. The LED display shows the current temperature so you know what to expect before you sit. The night light is a small touch that prevents the 2 AM stubbed-toe.
What I appreciated most was the emergency flush function. During a power outage, you can still flush manually using a backup battery, so you are not stuck with a non-functional toilet. That is a feature premium smart toilets sometimes skip.
Why it works for tech-friendly bathrooms
If you are building a primary suite or doing a major remodel, a smart toilet adds daily convenience that you notice every single time you use the bathroom. The auto open/close lid is more useful than it sounds, especially when your hands are full. The self-cleaning features reduce how often you need to scrub the bowl.
The 1.26 GPF flush is more efficient than standard 1.28 GPF models, which is a small but real water savings. The round bowl shape is more compact than elongated, so this toilet fits in smaller bathrooms where a full-size smart toilet would be too long. The 12-inch rough-in is standard, but double-check your bathroom before ordering.
Where the LOUPUSUO struggles
The auto-flush triggers about 5 seconds after you stand up, which means it sometimes flushes while the lid is still in motion. The flush is also louder than non-smart toilets, which could be an issue if the bathroom is near a bedroom. The foot sensor is infrared, so it requires a brief pause to register, and you can not wave too quickly.
The backup battery is a nice idea but has reportedly failed on some units, leaving the user without flush capability during a power outage. The remote control has a learning curve; the icons are small and not always intuitive. If you want the most reliable smart toilet with the best support, the WOODBRIDGE below is a step up in quality.
7. WOODBRIDGE Smart Toilet – Premium Smart Pick
WOODBRIDGE Smart Toilet with 1000g MaP Flush Score & Foam Shield (B0930S)
1000g MaP flush
Auto open/close
17.375 inch ADA height
Foam shield system
Pros
- 1000g MaP flush performance
- Auto lid open/close and flush
- Foot sensor hands-free operation
- ADA 17.375 inch comfort height
- Moving air dryer with 3 speeds
- Foam shield reduces splashes and odors
- Heated seat with adjustable temp
- U.S.-based customer support
Cons
- Remote control symbols hard to read
- Non-standard water supply couplings
- Unusual shut-off valve configuration
- Only 7 left in stock
The WOODBRIDGE B0930S is the smart toilet I recommend to anyone who wants the best of the best and is willing to pay for it. At 4.7 stars across 318 reviews, it outscores every other smart toilet I have tested. The 1000g MaP flush score means it clears waste as well as any gravity toilet, and the dual flush (1.6 GPF full, 1.1 GPF half) gives you water savings when you need them.
The foam shield is the feature that sets this model apart. Before each use, the toilet sprays a foaming agent that coats the bowl interior, reducing splashes, trapping odors, and preventing waste from sticking. After two months of daily use, the bowl still looks like new with minimal scrubbing. The moving air dryer is also more effective than the LOUPUSUO’s, with three speed settings and a back-and-forth motion that dries more thoroughly.
Auto open/close works flawlessly: walk up to the toilet, the lid opens; walk away, the lid closes and flushes. The foot sensor handles the seat and lid separately, so you can open just the lid or just the seat with a wave. The ADA comfort height of 17.375 inches works for almost every user.
WOODBRIDGE’s U.S.-based customer support is the best in this category. I called with a question about the non-standard water supply coupling, and a human picked up within two rings. They walked me through the fix and shipped a free adapter the same day.
Why it works for premium bathrooms
If you are building a high-end primary suite, the WOODBRIDGE delivers a true luxury experience. The deodorizing system activates automatically and uses a catalyst-free filter that does not need replacement. The heated seat has multiple temperature levels, and the night light is gentler than competitors. The one-piece porcelain construction feels substantial and looks beautiful against any tile or stone.
MaP 1000g flush performance matches the best gravity toilets in this roundup, which means no compromises on the basics. The bidet has front, rear, and oscillating wash modes, and the water temperature is adjustable. For users who want a TOTO-level smart toilet at a lower price, this is the closest competitor.
Where the WOODBRIDGE falls short
The remote control uses symbols rather than text, and the icons are small and hard to read, especially for users with vision issues. The non-standard water supply couplings mean you may need an adapter, which adds an install step. The shut-off valve configuration is unusual, so plan to spend extra time on the water connection.
Stock is extremely limited (only 7 units at the time of writing), and the price is roughly 3x the LOUPUSUO. If you do not need the foam shield, moving dryer, and deodorizer, the LOUPUSUO delivers most of the smart features at half the price. But for the most complete smart toilet experience with the best support, this is the one to beat.
8. TOTO Entrada Two-Piece 1.28 GPF – Budget TOTO
TOTO® Entrada™ Two-Piece Elongated 1.28 GPF Universal Height Toilet, Cotton White – CST244EF#01
E-Max 1.28 GPF
Universal height
Glazed trapway
Two-piece elongated
Pros
- Efficient 1.28 GPF E-Max flush
- Quiet operation vs other TOTO models
- Universal chair height
- Minimalist modern design
- Quick tank refill for back-to-back flushes
- Glazed trapway resists clogs
Cons
- Non-adjustable flush valve
- Left-hand trip lever only
- Wax ring
- flange bolts
- seat not included
- Low water level may need occasional brush
The TOTO Entrada is the budget-friendly entry into the TOTO family. At well under $300, it brings the brand’s reputation and quality to a price that competes with mid-range American Standard and Kohler models. If you have heard plumbers praise TOTO but balked at the Drake’s price, the Entrada is the next best thing.
The E-Max 1.28 GPF flushing system is TOTO’s mid-tier flush technology. It is quieter than the Drake’s TORNADO FLUSH but still clears 800+ grams per flush in real-world testing, which is enough for most households. The Universal Height is the same as the Drake, putting the seat at a comfortable 17 to 19 inches.
What I noticed most about the Entrada is how quiet it is. Compared to the Drake, the flush is noticeably softer, which is a plus if your bathroom is near a bedroom or living space. The minimalist tank design looks clean, and the skirted base covers the floor bolts for a finished appearance. The tank refills quickly, so back-to-back flushes are not a problem.
Two-piece construction means easier transport and install than the one-piece TOTO models. If your bathroom is upstairs or down a narrow hallway, breaking the tank and bowl into two pieces makes the job manageable. The glazed trapway reduces clog risk compared to cheaper unglazed trapways.
Why it works for TOTO loyalists on a budget
The Entrada is for buyers who want TOTO reliability without the Drake’s price tag. The E-Max flush uses gravity, not pressure-assist, so there is no compressor or special tank to maintain. The standard 12-inch rough-in fits almost every US bathroom, and the elongated bowl adds comfort over round-front models.
At 4.4 stars across 279 reviews, the Entrada has a smaller review pool than the Drake, but the consistent ratings suggest the quality is steady. If you want TOTO quality and are okay with a less powerful (but still solid) flush, the Entrada delivers strong value. The WaterSense certification also qualifies the Entrada for many utility rebates.
Where the Entrada falls short
Like the Drake, the Entrada does not come with a wax ring, flange bolts, or seat. Budget another $30 to $60 for those items. The flush valve is non-adjustable, so if the factory water level is too low, you will need to contact TOTO for a fix. The handle is left-hand only, which is unusual for US homes and may bother right-handed users.
Some users reported the bowl water level sits lower than expected, which means occasional brushing is needed to keep the bowl clean. The shipping process also delivers the bowl and tank separately, so be ready to receive two boxes on different days. If you want a TOTO with a stronger flush and included installation parts, step up to the Drake.
How to Choose the Best Toilet for Your Bathroom
Buying a toilet is not just about flush power. The best toilets for your home depend on rough-in size, bowl shape, seat height, water efficiency, and how much you want to spend on smart features. Here is what to consider before you click buy.
Rough-in size is the most important measurement. The rough-in is the distance from the wall to the center of the floor drain, and 12 inches is standard in the US. Older homes sometimes have 10-inch or 14-inch rough-ins, so measure carefully before ordering. A wrong rough-in means returning the toilet and waiting weeks for a replacement.
Bowl shape comes down to comfort versus space. Elongated bowls add about 2 inches of length and are generally more comfortable for adults. Round bowls save space in small bathrooms and powder rooms. If you have a half bath or tight guest bathroom, round is often the better choice.
Understanding GPF and Water Efficiency
GPF (gallons per flush) determines how much water your toilet uses per cycle. The federal standard since 1994 has been 1.6 GPF, but most modern toilets use 1.28 GPF to meet WaterSense certification. Some dual-flush models go lower, with 0.8 to 1.1 GPF for liquid waste and 1.28 to 1.6 GPF for solid waste.
The 1990s low-flow toilets had a bad reputation for clogging, but modern engineering has fixed those issues. The Drake and the HOROW both clear 1,000-gram MaP test loads at 1.28 GPF, which matches the performance of older 3.5 GPF models. If you have an older home with cast-iron drain lines, the lower water volume of modern toilets can actually be a plus, since less water means less strain on aging pipes.
MaP Score and Flush Performance
MaP (Maximum Performance) testing is the industry standard for measuring flush power. The test uses soybean paste to simulate waste, and the score reflects how many grams the toilet clears in a single flush. A score of 350 grams is the minimum for solid waste removal, while 1,000 grams represents excellent performance.
All eight toilets in this roundup scored at least 800 grams in independent testing, and the TOTO Drake, HOROW, WOODBRIDGE, and Simple Project all hit the 1,000-gram gold standard. If your household has heavy usage or you regularly deal with clogs, prioritize a 1,000-gram MaP score over water savings. A clogged toilet wastes more water than a high-GPF alternative.
Seat Height and ADA Compliance
Standard toilet height is 15 to 16 inches from floor to seat top. Comfort height (also called chair height or ADA height) is 17 to 19 inches, and the Simple Project in this roundup goes even taller at 21 inches. The ADA Accessibility Guidelines require 17 to 19 inches for public restrooms, but many homeowners prefer the taller height for everyday comfort.
For households with seniors, anyone recovering from surgery, or users with knee or back issues, comfort height is a genuine quality-of-life improvement. The taller seat reduces the bending motion required to sit and stand, which puts less stress on joints. Standard height works fine for shorter users and children.
One-Piece vs Two-Piece Construction
One-piece toilets have the tank and bowl molded as a single unit, which means no leak-prone gasket between them. They look sleeker, are easier to clean (no crevices between tank and bowl), and often have a more modern aesthetic. The downside is weight: 99 to 112 pounds for most models, which makes install a two-person job.
Two-piece toilets have a separate tank and bowl that bolt together at install. They are lighter, easier to transport through narrow spaces, and generally cheaper. The seam between tank and bowl is a cleaning chore and a potential leak point, but replacement parts are easier to find and install. If you have a hard-to-access bathroom, two-piece is often the practical choice.
Smart Toilet Features Worth Considering
Smart toilets add features like heated seats, bidet washing, air drying, automatic flushing, and deodorizing. The LOUPUSUO and WOODBRIDGE in this roundup both deliver core smart features, with the WOODBRIDGE adding a foam shield and moving dryer for premium feel. If you have never used a bidet, an electric bidet seat on a standard toilet is a cheaper way to test the waters before committing to a full smart toilet. For off-grid scenarios, check out our best composting toilets guide, or if you need a portable option for camping, our best bucket toilets review covers portable alternatives.
The main tradeoffs are price and repair complexity. Smart toilets cost $400 to $1,500, while standard toilets run $200 to $500. Repairs also require either specialized technicians or willingness to DIY electrical and plumbing work. If you are not ready for the complexity, a standard toilet with a separate bidet seat is a good middle ground.
Installation and Supply House Tips
Most one-piece toilets in this roundup include a wax ring and floor bolts, but two-piece models like the TOTO Drake and Entrada do not. Budget an extra $20 to $40 for installation hardware, a new supply line, and possibly a flange repair kit. If you are replacing an old toilet, inspect the flange for cracks before installing the new one; a damaged flange can cause leaks even with a perfect wax ring.
Plumbers often recommend buying from a local plumbing supply house rather than a big-box store. Supply houses stock better-quality parts, and the staff typically has more technical knowledge. For online orders, the models in this roundup ship directly from Amazon or the manufacturer, which reduces the risk of damage during transport. If your toilet arrives with visible damage, refuse delivery and contact the seller immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable brand of toilet?
TOTO is widely considered the most reliable toilet brand based on plumber surveys, owner reviews, and MaP testing data. American Standard and Kohler are close behind, with strong quality across their product lines. Among budget brands, HOROW and Swiss Madison have built solid reputations in recent years.
Which is the best brand for toilets?
The best brand depends on your priorities. TOTO wins for reliability and long-term value. American Standard offers the best mid-range options. Kohler excels at design-forward models. For smart toilets, WOODBRIDGE and TOTO lead the category. For budget shoppers, HOROW and DeerValley deliver solid quality at lower prices.
What toilet do plumbers recommend?
Plumbers consistently recommend TOTO and American Standard. In informal surveys, the TOTO Drake is the most-cited model, followed by the American Standard VorMax and Champion series. Plumbers favor these brands for reliable flush performance, durable parts, and easy repairs over decades of use.
Which is better, 1.28 or 1.6 GPF toilet?
A 1.28 GPF toilet saves about 16% water per flush compared to 1.6 GPF models, which adds up to thousands of gallons per year. Modern 1.28 GPF toilets with proper MaP scores (800 grams or higher) clear waste as reliably as 1.6 GPF models. Choose 1.6 GPF only if you have older plumbing that benefits from extra water volume.
What is a good MaP score for a toilet?
A good MaP score is 800 grams or higher, which reliably clears solid waste in a single flush. The gold standard is 1,000 grams, which represents excellent performance under heavy use. Scores below 500 grams indicate the toilet may clog frequently and should be avoided for households with heavy usage.
Final Verdict: Which Best Toilet Should You Buy?
The TOTO Drake is the best overall pick for most households. It is the model plumbers install in their own homes, it cleared every test load I threw at it, and the TORNADO FLUSH plus CEFIONTECT glaze deliver genuine long-term value. The 1.6 GPF uses slightly more water than 1.28 GPF models, but the clog-free performance justifies the trade-off.
If budget matters more, the HOROW T0338W delivers 90% of the Drake’s performance at 60% of the price. The dual-flush design saves water, the skirted exterior is easy to clean, and the 17.3-inch ADA height works for almost every user. For seniors and very tall users, the Simple Project 21-inch model is a purpose-built solution that removes the bending stress of standard-height toilets. For smart toilet fans, the WOODBRIDGE is the premium pick, and the LOUPUSUO is the budget entry point.
Whatever model you choose, measure your rough-in carefully, plan for a new wax ring and seat if they are not included, and budget for professional installation if you are not comfortable with plumbing work. A quality toilet lasts 20+ years, so the time you spend choosing the right one pays off every single day.