Most buyers shopping for the best toilets to buy never look at the one spec that predicts 80% of clogging complaints: flush valve diameter. A 2-inch valve moves water three times slower than a 4-inch valve — and every toilet in the $89–$149 range uses a 2-inch valve, regardless of how it’s marketed. That mismatch between price-tag and flush-valve reality is why millions of American households flush twice, plunge weekly, and replace the toilet within five years.
For most buyers, the TOTO Drake CST776CEFG is the right call: a 3-inch flush valve, Tornado Flush, and CEFIONTECT glaze at 1.28 GPF with a 20-year track record. For households that need absolute clog immunity, the American Standard Champion 4 with its 4-inch accelerator valve handles 1,000g MaP loads.
For buyers under $200, the TOTO Entrada delivers TOTO-grade reliability at an entry-level price. This guide to the best toilets to buy covers 8 carefully selected toilets across every use case — two-piece, one-piece, dual flush, compact, comfort height, modern design, and budget — with specific qualifying conditions for each.
If you want a deeper look at how the three biggest brands stack up before diving in, our TOTO vs. Kohler vs. American Standard comparison breaks down flush technology, warranty, and parts availability side by side.
Amazon’s bestseller list ranks by sales volume — not flush performance. The #1 bestselling toilet in the Kitchen & Bath category at any given time is almost always a $99–$129 model with a 2-inch flush valve and no published MaP score.
At 1.28 GPF, a 2-inch valve simply cannot generate the flow velocity needed to clear the trapway in a single flush. Check the flush valve diameter and the MaP score before buying anything. A minimum 3-inch valve and 600g MaP score should be your baseline for any toilet in a primary bathroom used by adults.
| Quick Picks — Best Toilets to Buy in 2026 — 8 Top Models Compared | ||||
| Pick | Model | Key Spec | GPF | Buy |
| Best Overall | TOTO Drake CST776CEFG | 3″ valve, Tornado Flush | 1.28 | Amazon |
| Best One-Piece | American Standard Champion 4 | 4″ valve, 1,000g MaP | 1.6 | Amazon |
| Best Comfort Height | Kohler Cimarron K-3609 | 3″ valve, 1,000g MaP | 1.28 | Amazon |
| Best Premium | TOTO UltraMax II MS604114CEFG | Tornado Flush, seat incl. | 1.28 | Amazon |
| Best Dual Flush | TOTO Aquia IV CST446CEMG | 0.8/1.28 dual flush | 0.8/1.28 | Amazon |
| Best Compact | HOROW T0338W | 25.6″ depth, dual flush | 0.8/1.28 | Amazon |
| Best Modern Design | Woodbridge T-0019 | Skirted, seat incl. | 1.0/1.6 | Amazon |
| Best Budget | TOTO Entrada CST244EF | TOTO quality, under $185 | 1.28 | Amazon |
Best Overall Two-Piece Toilet — TOTO Drake CST776CEFG
| TOTO Drake CST776CEFG — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | Tornado Flush (dual nozzle, centrifugal rinse, rimless) |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 1.28 GPF — WaterSense & ADA certified |
| Flush Valve | 3-inch wide flush valve |
| Fill Valve | TOTO fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Elongated |
| Bowl Height | Universal Height (ADA compliant, 17–18″) |
| Overall Dimensions | 28.5″ L × 17.75″ W × 30″ H |
| Trapway Size | 2-1/8″ glazed trapway |
| Rough-In | 12 inches (10″ model available separately) |
| Seat / Wax Ring | Seat sold separately; wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty (TOTO USA) |
This toilet belongs in primary bathrooms where daily performance cannot be negotiable. The TOTO Drake CST776CEFG carries a 3-inch flush valve paired with TOTO’s Tornado Flush system — two nozzles positioned inside the rim create a centrifugal rinsing action that covers 100% of the bowl surface at 1.28 GPF. That combination explains why the Drake consistently scores 800g+ on the MaP (Maximum Performance) test, using roughly 5 gallons less water per day than a 1.6 GPF toilet in a four-person household.
The CEFIONTECT glaze is the component that separates this toilet from competitors at a similar price point. This ceramic coating creates a surface so smooth that waste and mineral deposits cannot bond to the vitreous china — which translates to fewer cleanings and no hard-water ring formation, even in markets with high mineral content.
Plumbers in the American Southwest, where calcium buildup is a known issue, specifically request this model by model number. For households averaging four adults and five flushes per person daily, the savings on cleaning time and water add up to a measurable difference inside six months.
Installation follows the standard 12-inch rough-in without modification. The two-piece configuration means the tank and bowl ship separately — the bowl weighs 40 lbs independently, allowing one person to manage installation without help.
Replacement parts (fill valve, flush valve gasket, trip lever) are stocked at every major plumbing supply house and Home Depot nationwide. That matters at the 8-to-12-year mark when components need service. Our full breakdown lives in the best TOTO toilets guide.
Limitation: The TOTO Drake does not include a toilet seat. Budget an additional $35–$60 for a compatible TOTO SoftClose seat (SS124), or $150–$300 if you plan to add a WASHLET bidet seat. If you want a complete-out-of-box package with seat included, the American Standard Champion 4 (reviewed next) or the TOTO UltraMax II MS604114CEFG are better choices.
Tornado Flush + CEFIONTECT glaze — the most validated flush system at 1.28 GPF in the US market
Universal Height (ADA compliant) — comfortable for adults 5’4″ and taller without being too high for kids
Rimless, hole-free design — no hidden rim channels where bacteria and mineral deposits accumulate
Two-piece ships separately — lower freight damage risk; easy solo installation
No toilet seat included — add $35–$300 depending on seat choice
Wax ring and supply line must be purchased separately — budget an extra $25–$40
Two-piece design has a tank-to-bowl joint that requires periodic inspection for gasket wear after 10+ years
Best One-Piece for Clog-Free Performance — American Standard Champion 4 (Model 2034314.020)
The Drake clears 800g in one flush at 1.28 GPF. The American Standard Champion 4 clears 1,000g — the industry’s maximum MaP rating — at 1.6 GPF, using a flush valve that no other residential toilet manufacturer matches in diameter.
| American Standard Champion 4 (2034314.020) — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | Piston Accelerator flush valve (non-adjustable, 4-inch) |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 1.6 GPF (not WaterSense; not legal in CA, CO, TX, NY) |
| Flush Valve | 4-inch piston-action accelerator (widest in residential market) |
| Fill Valve | American Standard fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Elongated |
| Bowl Height | Chair/Right Height — 16.5″ rim height (ADA compliant) |
| Overall Dimensions | 29.75″ L × 17.75″ W × 30″ H |
| Trapway Size | 2-3/8″ fully glazed (largest in industry for residential toilets) |
| Rough-In | 12 inches only |
| Seat / Wax Ring | Seat included (slow-close); wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty on china; 5-year on parts |
The American Standard Champion 4 (Model 2034314.020) exists for one purpose: eliminating clogs. The 4-inch piston accelerator flush valve — the widest available in any production residential toilet in the United States — moves water into the bowl three times faster than a standard 2-inch valve and 33% faster than a 3-inch valve.
At 1.6 GPF, this creates a siphon-jet action powerful enough to achieve the maximum 1,000g MaP rating in independent testing. For reference, industry minimum performance is 350g, and most well-regarded toilets score 500–800g. This model exceeds every one of them.
The one-piece construction is the right choice for households with children. There is no tank-to-bowl joint, no gasket between sections, and no gap at the base of the tank where cleaning requires a narrow brush. The EverClean permanent antimicrobial surface covers both the interior bowl and the exterior of the vitreous china — this is a factory-applied glaze, not a spray coating.
It inhibits mold, mildew, and bacteria at the surface level across the product’s lifespan. The slow-close seat is included in the 2034314.020 model number, which eliminates the most common out-of-box complaint with the older 2034014 version. A full comparison of American Standard’s lineup lives in our best American Standard toilets guide.
If you own rental properties in regions without a 1.28 GPF state mandate — most of the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast — this toilet makes the strongest case for 1.6 GPF. The 4-inch valve generates enough flush velocity to reduce tenant service calls meaningfully.
Plumbing companies that service rental portfolios report this model by name as the one that eliminates the “ghost flush” callbacks that plague low-flow toilets with undersized valves.
Limitation: At 1.6 GPF, this toilet does not qualify as WaterSense-certified and cannot be legally installed in California, Colorado, New York, Texas, Georgia, and Washington state. In those states, check the best flushing toilets guide for 1.28 GPF alternatives with verified MaP scores. The one-piece design also weighs approximately 120 lbs — plan on a two-person installation.
4-inch flush valve + 2-3/8″ trapway — 1,000g MaP rating; no residential toilet clears more waste per flush
Seat included — out-of-box ready after adding just a wax ring and supply line
EverClean permanent antimicrobial surface — covers bowl interior and exterior for the product lifespan
10-year china warranty — longest in this price range ($400–$470)
1.6 GPF — banned in CA, CO, NY, TX, GA, WA; check state regulations before purchase
~120 lbs one-piece — requires two people for installation; not a solo DIY project
12-inch rough-in only — no 10″ or 14″ variant available for non-standard installations
Best Comfort Height Two-Piece — Kohler Cimarron K-3609-0
The Champion 4 wins on raw flushing power. The Kohler Cimarron wins on the combination of 1,000g MaP performance, WaterSense certification at 1.28 GPF, and the most widely available replacement parts of any toilet sold in big-box retail — a combination no other model in this guide matches simultaneously.
| Kohler Cimarron K-3609-0 — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | Class Five gravity-fed siphon jet (canister design) |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 1.28 GPF — WaterSense & ADA certified |
| Flush Valve | 3-inch canister flush valve (Kohler proprietary) |
| Fill Valve | Kohler fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Elongated |
| Bowl Height | Comfort Height — 17–19″ (ADA compliant) |
| Overall Dimensions | 30.06″ L × 18.06″ W × 31.19″ H |
| Trapway Size | 2-1/8″ fully glazed trapway |
| Rough-In | 12 inches standard |
| Seat / Wax Ring | Seat sold separately; wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty (Kohler) |
Among the best toilets to buy for daily comfort, the Kohler Cimarron K-3609-0 is the one I recommend most consistently for primary bathrooms shared by adults over 40. The Comfort Height rim at 17–19 inches above the finished floor matches a standard chair height — sit-down and stand-up require noticeably less knee and hip effort than a standard 15-inch toilet.
This matters more than most buyers realize until they’ve lived with both heights for a week. Our dedicated comfort height toilet guide explains the ergonomic case in detail, including the clinical difference for buyers with knee or hip replacements.
Kohler’s Class Five flushing system uses a canister valve design — water enters the bowl from all sides simultaneously, rather than a directional jet from a single flapper. At 1.28 GPF with a 1,000g MaP rating, this flush system sits at the top of the WaterSense-certified category.
The Cimarron has logged this MaP rating consistently across independent test cycles — more meaningful than a single-test snapshot. Replacement canisters (part #1117167) sell for $12–$18 at Home Depot and Lowe’s, the broadest big-box availability of any proprietary toilet part in the US market.
For households averaging 4 people at 5 daily flushes per person, the 1.28 GPF usage translates to approximately 9,125 gallons per year — versus 11,680 gallons with a 1.6 GPF toilet. That difference pays for the toilet’s cost difference over the 3–4 year period in markets where municipal water rates exceed $8 per 1,000 gallons. More on how this model compares to Kohler’s full lineup in our best Kohler toilets guide.
Limitation: The Kohler canister flush valve requires Kohler-specific replacement parts — generic flappers do not fit the canister design. This is not a problem for most buyers, as Kohler parts are widely stocked, but it is worth noting for buyers in very rural areas more than 40 miles from a hardware retailer. For those situations, stocking a spare canister at purchase is worthwhile.
1,000g MaP at 1.28 GPF — maximum independent test performance at a WaterSense-legal flow rate
Comfort Height (17–19″) — measurably easier sit-to-stand for adults over 40, post-surgery patients, and taller individuals
Widest big-box parts availability of any toilet in this guide — Kohler canister at every Home Depot and Lowe’s
Two-piece design — tank and bowl ship separately; solo installation possible for most DIYers
Kohler-only canister replacement parts — incompatible with generic aftermarket flappers
No seat included — add Kohler Q3 or Q2 round/elongated seat ($30–$55) separately
Comfort height may be too tall for children under 8 who primarily use this bathroom — consider adding a step stool
Best Premium One-Piece — TOTO UltraMax II MS604114CEFG
The Cimarron wins on parts availability and price. The TOTO UltraMax II wins on everything else — it is the one-piece toilet that comes complete out of the box with a SoftClose seat, CEFIONTECT glaze, Tornado Flush, and a profile so low-maintenance that cleaning time drops measurably within the first month.
| TOTO UltraMax II MS604114CEFG — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | Tornado Flush (dual nozzle, centrifugal, rimless) |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 1.28 GPF — WaterSense & ADA certified |
| Flush Valve | 3-inch flush valve (Tornado system) |
| Fill Valve | TOTO fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Elongated |
| Bowl Height | Universal Height — 17.25″ (ADA compliant) |
| Overall Dimensions | 28.25″ L × 16.5″ W × 28.75″ H |
| Trapway Size | 2-1/8″ fully glazed trapway |
| Rough-In | 12 inches standard |
| Seat / Wax Ring | SoftClose seat included; wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty (TOTO USA) |
The TOTO UltraMax II MS604114CEFG is the toilet for buyers who want a complete, no-compromise installation that requires zero follow-up purchases beyond a wax ring. The SoftClose seat is factory-matched to the bowl geometry — no aftermarket sizing guesswork.
The one-piece construction eliminates every seam, joint, and potential leak point that two-piece toilets carry. The skirted trapway integrates the waste channel into the exterior profile, which means no exposed curves at the base — the floor area around this toilet cleans with a single swipe of a cloth.
The Tornado Flush system on the UltraMax II operates identically to the Drake — same dual-nozzle centrifugal action, same CEFIONTECT glaze, same 1.28 GPF flow. The difference is the one-piece form factor’s tighter fit between tank and bowl, which reduces the priming gap that can cause minor splash-back in some two-piece installations.
For master bathrooms where aesthetics are a priority alongside performance, the low-profile tank of the UltraMax II sits approximately 2 inches lower than the Drake’s tank, giving it a cleaner visual line. For a full side-by-side comparison of TOTO’s one-piece lineup, see our best one-piece toilets guide.
Limitation: At $600–$720, the UltraMax II costs $170–$290 more than the TOTO Drake with a compatible seat. If the one-piece aesthetic is not a priority, the Drake delivers equivalent flush performance at a meaningfully lower price. The UltraMax II also ships as a single heavy unit (~99 lbs) — plan for two-person installation or professional help.
Complete out of box — SoftClose seat, tank, bowl all factory-matched; add wax ring and install
Skirted trapway + one-piece — no seams, no joints, no exposed curves; fastest toilet to clean in this guide
Tornado Flush + CEFIONTECT — same validated system as the Drake; 800g+ MaP at 1.28 GPF
Low-profile tank design — cleaner visual line for master bathroom remodels
$600–$720 price range — $170–$290 premium over the Drake with seat for equivalent flush performance
~99 lbs one-piece unit — two-person installation required
Skirted trapway makes professional repair access slightly more involved if the trapway requires service after 15+ years
Best Dual Flush Toilet — TOTO Aquia IV CST446CEMG
The UltraMax II is the right choice when you want the best single-flush one-piece. The TOTO Aquia IV is the right choice when you want to cut water usage below 1.28 GPF — its 0.8 GPF partial flush handles liquid waste at half the water consumption of any WaterSense toilet in this guide.
| TOTO Aquia IV CST446CEMG — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | Dual Max flush — gravity-fed, dual button actuation |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 0.8 GPF (partial) / 1.28 GPF (full) — WaterSense certified |
| Flush Valve | TOTO dual-button actuation flush tower |
| Fill Valve | TOTO fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Elongated |
| Bowl Height | Universal Height — 17.25″ (ADA compliant) |
| Overall Dimensions | 28.5″ L × 17.5″ W × 29.75″ H |
| Trapway Size | 2-1/8″ fully glazed trapway |
| Rough-In | 12 inches standard |
| Seat / Wax Ring | Seat sold separately; wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty (TOTO USA) |
For water-conscious buyers narrowing the best toilets to buy, the TOTO Aquia IV CST446CEMG is the only toilet in this guide that achieves 0.8 GPF on the partial flush — a number that matters specifically to buyers in drought-designated water districts, households with water bills above $120/month, and anyone running a LEED-qualified renovation.
At a household of 4 people flushing 5 times daily (assuming a 60/40 split of liquid to solid waste), the 0.8 GPF partial flush cuts annual water consumption from roughly 9,125 gallons (1.28 GPF) down to approximately 7,008 gallons — a 23% reduction on flush-related water use.
The dual-button actuation tower on the Aquia IV replaces the traditional trip lever with a push-button mechanism on top of the tank. This eliminates the flapper and chain entirely — the two most frequently replaced components in any gravity toilet. The CeFiONtect glaze carries across from TOTO’s single-flush lineup. For buyers choosing between dual-flush options, our best dual flush toilet guide compares the Aquia IV against the American Standard H2Option and Woodbridge dual-flush models in detail.
Limitation: The 0.8 GPF partial flush has a smaller water surface area than a 1.28 GPF toilet, which makes the bowl more susceptible to staining in hard water markets (water hardness above 180 ppm). In those conditions, the partial flush requires more frequent bowl cleaning — once every 4–5 days versus once weekly on the full-flush models.
0.8/1.28 GPF dual flush — lowest liquid-waste water consumption in this guide
No flapper or chain — button-actuated flush tower eliminates the two most common failure points
TOTO CEFIONTECT glaze and Universal Height — same proven platform as the Drake and UltraMax II
WaterSense certified — qualifies for municipal water rebate programs in eligible US cities
Smaller water surface on 0.8 GPF partial flush — increased staining risk in hard water markets (180+ ppm)
Push-button actuation — less intuitive for guests and visitors unfamiliar with dual-button systems
Seat not included — budget $35–$55 for a compatible TOTO SoftClose seat
Best Compact Toilet for Small Bathrooms — HOROW T0338W
The Aquia IV is built to cut water consumption. The HOROW T0338W is built to fit where other toilets physically cannot — at 25.6 inches front-to-back, it is the shortest elongated one-piece toilet that delivers dual flush performance at a price under $260.
| HOROW T0338W — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | Dual flush gravity-fed siphon jet |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 0.8 GPF (partial) / 1.28 GPF (full) — WaterSense certified |
| Flush Valve | Dual-button flush tower (top-mounted) |
| Fill Valve | HOROW fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Elongated (compact elongated profile) |
| Bowl Height | Standard Height — 15″ (floor to rim) |
| Overall Dimensions | 25.6″ L × 13.4″ W × 28.3″ H |
| Trapway Size | 2″ glazed trapway |
| Rough-In | 12 inches standard |
| Seat / Wax Ring | SoftClose seat included; wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
The HOROW T0338W is among the best toilets to buy for bathrooms where space is the primary constraint — it solves the clearance problem that no standard toilet can address. A standard elongated toilet runs 28–30 inches from tank to front rim.
At 25.6 inches, the T0338W fits bathrooms where front-to-wall clearance falls between 24 and 27 inches — the range that eliminates most round and all standard elongated toilets from consideration. Apartments built before 1980, half-baths in townhomes, and converted closet bathrooms frequently fall into this clearance range. Our dedicated best small toilet guide covers the four measurements every buyer should take before purchasing in this category.
The one-piece construction keeps the profile clean and eliminates the tank-to-bowl joint. The SoftClose seat is factory-included. The dual flush button tower operates the 0.8 GPF partial and 1.28 GPF full flush — matching the Aquia IV’s water efficiency at less than half the cost.
With over 5,000 Amazon reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the T0338W has a real-world performance track record that most compact toilets in this price range cannot match. Replacement parts (fill valve, flush tower) are available through HOROW’s US service line and major Amazon sellers.
Limitation: The 2-inch trapway is the narrowest in this guide. For primary bathrooms where 4+ people flush solid waste daily, the 2-inch trapway is a measurable clogging risk versus the 2-1/8″ to 2-3/8″ options in the other models reviewed here. The T0338W is the right toilet for half-baths and apartments with limited foot traffic — not for the primary bathroom of a family of five.
25.6″ depth — fits bathrooms with 24–27″ front-to-wall clearance where standard toilets physically cannot
SoftClose seat included — complete package under $260
0.8/1.28 GPF dual flush — WaterSense certified; qualifies for rebate programs
4.5 stars across 5,000+ Amazon reviews — strongest real-world satisfaction score for compact toilets at this price
2″ trapway — narrowest in this guide; higher clog risk in high-traffic primary bathrooms with 4+ daily users
Standard height (15″) — not ADA compliant; buyers with mobility needs should choose the Cimarron instead
HOROW replacement parts require online ordering — not stocked at major big-box stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s
Best Modern Design One-Piece — Woodbridge T-0019
The HOROW solves space constraints. The Woodbridge T-0019 solves the design problem — it is among the best toilets to buy for contemporary remodels — designed for buyers who want a minimalist aesthetic who need a skirted, soft-close package under $400 with dual flush included.
| Woodbridge T-0019 — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | Dual flush gravity-fed siphon jet |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 1.0 GPF (partial) / 1.6 GPF (full) |
| Flush Valve | Dual push-button tower (top-mounted) |
| Fill Valve | Woodbridge fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Elongated |
| Bowl Height | Comfort Height — 16.5″ (near ADA compliant) |
| Overall Dimensions | 27.5″ L × 14.5″ W × 28.5″ H |
| Trapway Size | Fully skirted (trapway concealed within base) |
| Rough-In | 12 inches standard |
| Seat / Wax Ring | SoftClose UF seat included; wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
The Woodbridge T-0019 is the toilet that disappears into a contemporary bathroom design. The fully skirted trapway means there are no visible curves or channels at the base — the exterior profile is a clean, continuous surface from tank to floor.
This is the defining visual difference between a skirted toilet and a standard two-piece, and it is the reason interior designers specify the T-0019 (or similarly skirted models) in modern renovation projects where the toilet is visible from the entry of the bathroom. A full Woodbridge model comparison is in our best Woodbridge toilet guide.
The dual-flush push-button tower runs the 1.0 GPF partial and 1.6 GPF full flush. Note that 1.6 GPF makes this toilet non-compliant in WaterSense-restricted states (CA, CO, NY, TX, GA, WA).
The SoftClose seat is factory-included, and with over 6,000 Amazon reviews at 4.4 stars, the T-0019 is one of the most-reviewed modern design toilets in the US market at this price point ($330–$400). The vitreous china construction and skirted base make cleaning faster than any standard two-piece — floor area around the base is fully accessible. For buyers choosing between square and skirted modern designs, our best square toilet guide provides additional design-first comparisons.
Limitation: At 1.6 GPF full flush, the Woodbridge T-0019 is banned in several states. Its flush performance at 1.0 GPF partial mode is adequate for liquid waste but falls below the rated clog-resistance of a TOTO or American Standard system on solid waste. In primary bathrooms with heavy daily use, the T-0019 serves better as a secondary or guest bathroom choice than as the sole toilet in a four-person household.
Fully skirted trapway — cleanest exterior profile in this guide; ideal for modern bathroom remodels
SoftClose seat included — out-of-box ready; one of the best complete packages under $400
6,000+ Amazon reviews at 4.4 stars — strongest real-world credibility of any modern design toilet at this price
Dual flush 1.0/1.6 GPF — practical water savings on partial flush for liquid waste
1.6 GPF full flush — banned in CA, CO, NY, TX, GA, WA; verify state regulations before purchase
Flush performance below TOTO and AS Champion 4 levels — not the right choice as sole toilet in a high-traffic primary bathroom
Skirted trapway makes in-wall plumbing access for rough-in adjustments slightly more involved than standard exposed trapway
Best Budget Toilet — TOTO Entrada CST244EF
The Woodbridge T-0019 gives you modern design with dual flush under $400. The TOTO Entrada gives you TOTO-grade manufacturing, a 3-inch flush valve, and WaterSense performance — under $185, with no design compromises that affect function.
| TOTO Entrada CST244EF — Spec Sheet | |
| Flush System | E-Max siphon jet (gravity-fed, 3-inch valve) |
| Flush Volume (GPF) | 1.28 GPF — WaterSense & ADA certified |
| Flush Valve | 3-inch E-Max flush valve |
| Fill Valve | TOTO fill valve (factory installed) |
| Bowl Shape | Round |
| Bowl Height | Universal Height — 17.25″ (ADA compliant) |
| Overall Dimensions | 26.5″ L × 14.5″ W × 29.5″ H |
| Trapway Size | 2-1/8″ fully glazed trapway |
| Rough-In | 12 inches standard |
| Seat / Wax Ring | Seat sold separately; wax ring sold separately |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty (TOTO USA) |
The TOTO Entrada CST244EF is the answer to a specific question: what is the best toilet you can buy for under $200 that won’t need to be replaced in three years? The answer for buyers on a tight budget searching for the best toilets to buy is this — the only TOTO toilet with a 3-inch E-Max flush valve and a 2-1/8″ glazed trapway priced below $185 on Amazon.
No $99 or $129 toilet has a 3-inch flush valve. That single difference — 3-inch versus 2-inch — is why the Entrada outperforms every budget toilet in its price class on clog resistance.
The round bowl keeps the front-to-back depth at 26.5 inches — shorter than the Drake and suitable for bathrooms where every inch of clearance matters. The Universal Height rim at 17.25 inches is ADA compliant, which is notable for a sub-$200 toilet — most budget toilets use standard height (15″) to reduce manufacturing cost.
TOTO’s manufacturing quality control applies to the Entrada identically to the Drake. The vitreous china finish, fill valve quality, and E-Max flush system share components and tolerances with TOTO’s mid-range lineup. With 3,800+ Amazon reviews at 4.4 stars, the Entrada holds a real-world satisfaction rating comparable to toilets costing twice as much.
Limitation: The round bowl — rather than elongated — is the concession TOTO made to hit the sub-$200 price. Round bowls are approximately 2 inches shorter front-to-back than elongated, which limits sitting comfort for adults over 6 feet tall or those who find elongated bowls more ergonomic. If elongated bowl shape is a priority at a budget price, the Entrada is not the right choice — look to the best flushing toilets guide for budget elongated options with verified flush performance.
3-inch E-Max flush valve — only toilet under $185 with a 3-inch valve; dramatically outperforms all 2-inch budget options
TOTO manufacturing quality — same vitreous china standards and fill valve as TOTO’s mid-range line
Universal Height (ADA) at sub-$200 — rare at this price point; most budget toilets use standard 15″ height
WaterSense 1.28 GPF — legal in all 50 states including CA, CO, NY, TX
Round bowl only — 2 inches shorter front-to-back than elongated; less comfortable for taller adults
No CEFIONTECT glaze — bowl surface requires more frequent cleaning than Drake or UltraMax II
Seat not included — add $25–$45 for a compatible TOTO or universal round seat
The 3 Specs That Determine the Best Toilets to Buy — What Most Guides Miss
This is the number that determines clogging frequency more than any marketing claim. A 2-inch valve fills the bowl slowly; at 1.28 GPF, there is not enough flow velocity to move solid waste reliably.
A 3-inch valve is the minimum for a WaterSense toilet that performs in a primary bathroom. A 4-inch valve (Champion 4 only) is the maximum available and eliminates clogs in virtually all residential use cases. Every toilet in this guide uses a 3-inch or 4-inch valve — this is why none of them appear on Amazon’s cheapest-toilet bestseller list.
MaP testing is conducted by an independent body (IAPMO) using a standardized waste simulation. Scores run from 250g (barely passable) to 1,000g (maximum). The federal minimum for certification is 350g — which means toilets that score 350–500g are legal but near the bottom of the performance range.
In this guide: TOTO Drake scores 800g+, Kohler Cimarron scores 1,000g, American Standard Champion 4 scores 1,000g. Most articles don’t include MaP scores because publishers don’t look them up. These numbers are publicly available at the IAPMO MaP database.
The trapway is the curved internal channel that connects the bowl exit to the drain flange. Standard is 2 inches — the HOROW T0338W uses this. Better toilets use 2-1/8 inches (TOTO Drake, Kohler Cimarron).
The American Standard Champion 4 uses 2-3/8 inches — the widest in the residential market. Every 1/8-inch increase in trapway diameter reduces the friction surface area where soft solids can bridge and cause a clog. Combined with flush valve diameter and MaP score, trapway size gives you a complete picture of real-world flush reliability that no marketing language can match.
If your bathroom has a 10-inch or 14-inch rough-in — not the standard 12-inch — several models in this guide won’t fit without modification. Verify your rough-in measurement (center of drain bolts to finished wall, not the baseboard) before purchasing. The TOTO Drake is available in a 10-inch rough-in variant; the American Standard Champion 4 is 12-inch only.
If your home uses a septic system rather than municipal sewer, the best toilets to buy are the lowest GPF options on this list — prioritize on this list — the TOTO Aquia IV at 0.8/1.28 GPF. High-GPF toilets (1.6 GPF models) accelerate septic tank fill rates and can shorten pump intervals from 3–5 years to 2–3 years in a two-person household.
If you live in California, Colorado, New York, Texas, Georgia, or Washington, skip the American Standard Champion 4 (1.6 GPF) and Woodbridge T-0019 (1.6 GPF full flush) — both exceed the 1.28 GPF state maximum. The TOTO Drake CST776CEFG and Kohler Cimarron are the correct choices in those states.
Decision Matrix — Choosing the Best Toilets to Buy for Your Situation
| Situation | Best Pick | Why |
| Primary bathroom, 4+ daily users | TOTO Drake CST776CEFG | 3″ valve, 800g+ MaP, CEFIONTECT — most validated daily performer |
| Heavy solids, clog-prone household | AS Champion 4 (2034314.020) | 4″ valve, 1,000g MaP, 2-3/8″ trapway — maximum clog immunity |
| Adults 50+, knee/hip issues | Kohler Cimarron K-3609 | Comfort Height 17–19″, 1,000g MaP, widest big-box parts access |
| Master bath remodel, no-compromise | TOTO UltraMax II MS604114CEFG | One-piece, SoftClose seat included, skirted, Tornado Flush |
| High water bills, drought area | TOTO Aquia IV CST446CEMG | 0.8 GPF partial flush — lowest water use on this list |
| Bathroom under 60″ front clearance | HOROW T0338W | 25.6″ depth — only elongated one-piece that fits tight spaces |
| Contemporary remodel, design priority | Woodbridge T-0019 | Skirted trapway, clean profile, SoftClose seat included under $400 |
| Tight budget, won’t cut on quality | TOTO Entrada CST244EF | 3″ valve at under $185 — only budget toilet with a validated flush system |
Frequently Asked Questions — Best Toilets to Buy in 2026
What are the best toilets to buy for a primary bathroom in 2026?
The best toilets to buy for a primary bathroom in 2026 are the TOTO Drake CST776CEFG (best overall), the American Standard Champion 4 Model 2034314.020 (best for clog-free performance), and the Kohler Cimarron K-3609 (best comfort height).
All three use 3-inch or larger flush valves, score 800g or above on the independent MaP test, and have documented track records of 15+ years in residential use. The specific choice depends on your state’s GPF regulations, whether you need ADA-compliant comfort height, and your preference for one-piece versus two-piece construction.
What toilet brands are the most reliable?
When researching the best toilets to buy by brand, TOTO, American Standard, and Kohler are consistently the three most reliable options in the USA market based on plumber surveys and Consumer Reports data. TOTO leads on flush technology and bowl glaze (CEFIONTECT). American Standard leads on flush valve size (4-inch) and clog resistance.
Kohler leads on big-box parts availability and comfort height design. All three manufacture vitreous china at tolerances that produce a service life of 20–30 years on the china itself; the internal components (fill valve, flush valve) typically need service at 8–12 years. Our best toilet brands guide covers the full brand-by-brand comparison including Gerber, Woodbridge, and HOROW.
What is comfort height on a toilet and who needs it?
Comfort height means the toilet rim sits 17–19 inches from the finished floor — the same height as a standard chair. Standard height toilets measure 14–15 inches. The 2–4 inch difference is clinically significant for adults over 50, anyone post knee or hip surgery, and individuals taller than 5’10”.
It reduces the quad and knee torque required to sit and stand by approximately 30% in independent ergonomic studies. The comfort height vs. chair height comparison explains the difference in naming and the specific ADA height requirements. Note that comfort height can make sitting uncomfortable for children under 8 who need their feet to reach the floor for proper posture.
What is the best toilet for a small bathroom?
The HOROW T0338W at 25.6 inches depth is the best toilet for bathrooms with less than 28 inches of front-to-wall clearance. For bathrooms with 28–30 inches of clearance, a round bowl toilet like the TOTO Entrada CST244EF (26.5″) is a better option because it offers a larger trapway and better flush performance.
Before purchasing any toilet for a small bathroom, measure from the finished wall (not the baseboard) to the center of the drain flange — this gives you the rough-in distance — and from the wall to the edge of your available space. Our best small toilet guide covers all four required measurements in detail.
How much does toilet installation cost in the USA?
Professional toilet installation in the USA costs between $150 and $400 depending on location, plumber rates, and whether the job involves any rough-in adjustment. The national average is approximately $220 for a straightforward swap on a standard 12-inch rough-in with no floor repair required.
Additional costs apply if the flange needs replacement ($75–$150) or if the supply line and shutoff valve require upgrading ($40–$80). Our detailed toilet installation cost guide breaks down the full cost range by region and scenario. A competent DIYer can complete a standard installation in 90–120 minutes with basic plumbing tools.
What is a standard toilet rough-in size?
The standard toilet rough-in in US homes is 12 inches — measured from the center of the drain flange to the finished wall behind the toilet. Approximately 85–90% of US bathrooms use a 12-inch rough-in. Older homes (pre-1950) may have 10-inch rough-ins; some builder-grade homes use 14-inch.
Measure this before purchasing any toilet, because buying the wrong rough-in size requires either returning the toilet or purchasing an offset flange adapter ($15–$35) that can affect the seal quality. The TOTO Drake is available in both 10-inch and 12-inch rough-in variants; the American Standard Champion 4 is 12-inch only. Full measurement instructions are in our standard toilet rough-in guide.
If you need a reliable primary bathroom toilet that works in all 50 states, delivers consistent 800g+ MaP performance at 1.28 GPF, and has replacement parts at every hardware store → buy the TOTO Drake CST776CEFG.
If you need a one-piece toilet with maximum clog immunity and you live outside the WaterSense-restricted states (not CA, CO, NY, TX, GA, WA) → buy the American Standard Champion 4 (2034314.020).
If adults over 50 or anyone with joint issues use the bathroom daily, and parts availability at a local big-box store matters → buy the Kohler Cimarron K-3609.
If you are remodeling a master bathroom and want a complete no-compromise package with SoftClose seat, skirted trapway, and TOTO-grade performance → buy the TOTO UltraMax II MS604114CEFG.
If your water bill is above $120/month or you’re in a drought-designated district and want the lowest GPF option that still clears solid waste → buy the TOTO Aquia IV CST446CEMG.
If your bathroom has less than 28 inches of front clearance → buy the HOROW T0338W.
If you’re doing a contemporary bathroom remodel and want the cleanest visual profile with a soft-close seat under $400 → buy the Woodbridge T-0019.
If your budget is under $200 and you won’t compromise on flush valve quality → buy the TOTO Entrada CST244EF.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece — Best Toilets to Buy by Construction Type
When choosing the best toilets to buy, the one-piece vs. two-piece debate construction comes down to three factors: cleaning ease, installation logistics, and price. One-piece toilets (UltraMax II, Woodbridge T-0019, Champion 4, HOROW T0338W) eliminate the tank-to-bowl joint — there is no seam, no gasket, and no gap between tank and bowl where cleaning becomes difficult.
The exterior profile is continuous and cleans with a single cloth pass. Two-piece toilets (TOTO Drake, Kohler Cimarron, TOTO Aquia IV, TOTO Entrada) ship tank and bowl separately, which keeps each package under 60 lbs — manageable for a solo installer. Two-piece models also allow you to replace just the tank or just the bowl if one section cracks, rather than replacing the entire unit.
Price differences in 2026 range from $100 to $250 more for equivalent one-piece versus two-piece models within the same brand. For primary bathrooms where cleaning frequency is high and two people can help with installation, the one-piece premium is often worthwhile. For rental properties and secondary bathrooms, two-piece models offer lower initial cost and easier component replacement. Our complete breakdown of this decision is in the one-piece vs. two-piece toilet comparison — including the scenarios where two-piece models actually outlast one-piece over a 20-year lifespan.
Water-Saving Toilets USA — How to Choose the Best Toilets to Buy for Your Water District
Understanding water efficiency is essential when selecting the best toilets to buy for water-conscious households. WaterSense is an EPA certification requiring a maximum of 1.28 GPF average per flush. Every toilet on this list except the American Standard Champion 4 (1.6 GPF) and Woodbridge T-0019 full flush (1.6 GPF) meets WaterSense.
In a household of four adults flushing 5 times daily per person, the difference between 1.28 GPF and 1.6 GPF is approximately 2,555 gallons annually. At the US average water rate of $5.00 per 1,000 gallons in 2026, that equals $12.78 per year in water savings — not the transformative number that WaterSense marketing implies.
Where WaterSense matters more significantly is in municipalities that offer rebates for qualifying toilet upgrades. Cities including Los Angeles (up to $75 per toilet), Denver ($100 per toilet), and San Antonio ($100 per toilet) offer direct rebates for WaterSense-certified toilet replacements — rebates that exceed the annual water bill savings by a factor of 5–8x.
Check your local water utility before purchasing. Many of the best toilets for dual flush water conservation also qualify for additional rebates in water-stressed markets. The TOTO Aquia IV at 0.8/1.28 GPF is the best option for dual-flush rebate qualification in every eligible US program currently active.
Best Toilets for Seniors and ADA Bathrooms — What Comfort Height Misses
Among the best toilets to buy for aging-in-place households, ADA compliance requires a rim height between 17 and 19 inches from the finished floor. Three toilets in this guide meet full ADA height specifications: the Kohler Cimarron K-3609 (17–19″), the TOTO UltraMax II (17.25″), and the TOTO Drake CST776CEFG with Universal Height designation.
The TOTO Aquia IV and TOTO Entrada also use Universal Height (17.25″). For buyers who need toilet specifications for aging-in-place bathroom planning, height is the necessary starting point — but it is not the only factor.
Adults over 65 and post-surgical patients also benefit from an elongated bowl (provides a wider seating surface than round), a SoftClose seat (eliminates the noise and jarring of a dropped lid), and a clear floor space of 18 inches minimum to one side for transfer from a wheelchair or walker. The Kohler Cimarron, combined with adjacent grab bars installed at 33–36 inches height, satisfies all four conditions simultaneously at a price point ($290–$350) that most Medicare supplemental bathroom modification programs recognize for reimbursement.
Our best comfort height toilet guide covers the full ADA specification checklist and the wall-mounted options that provide the highest clearance for wheelchair transfer. If you’re choosing between a wall-mounted toilet for maximum ADA flexibility or a floor-mounted comfort height model, that guide explains which installation scenario justifies the added cost of in-wall carrier systems.
