Toilets: Reviews

Sure, toilets pretty much all look alike, but based on the research we found, they don't all perform alike. We examined tests of toilets at Consumer Reports, but research done by the Alliance for Water Efficiency really blew us away; these folks have tested more than 1,200 toilet brands and models with simulated waste. In addition to these studies, we compared user ratings for stain resistance and installation. Below are best-bet toilets in several classes and price ranges.

Toto Drake CST744S

Best standard toilet

$255

Estimated Price

If you're after a simple, easy-to-maintain toilet and don't care about designer looks or water-saving extras, owners say the Toto Drake is an economical gravity toilet that is particularly easy to install and maintain. Reviewers also report that its 1.6-gallon flush is powerful and effective at keeping its bowl clean (sometimes a problem with toilets that use less water). Owners are also enthusiastic about the Drake's consistent, clog-free performance, saying it generally gets the job done in a single flush. In fact, in one flush-performance test, the Drake successfully removed a hefty 900 grams of solid waste -- just short of the maximum rate. One drawback: This toilet's two-piece design means that it's a bit more time-consuming to clean. The Toto toilet, which is available in five colors, is covered under a one-year limited warranty. Note that a toilet seat isn't included.

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American Standard Compact Cadet 3 FloWise 2403.128

Best water-saving toilet

$390

Estimated Price

It's more expensive than standard toilets, but the American Standard Compact Cadet 3 FloWise offers lower water consumption without sacrificing performance. This high-efficiency toilet uses a mere 1.28 gallons of water per flush, yet disposes of up to 1,000 grams of solid waste in a single flush. Furthermore, it's one-piece design means there are fewer nooks and crannies to clean. Each of its five color choices feature a unique silver-based EverClean surface -- a coating which naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold. Other perks: Its rim is tall enough to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, and a seat is included. Many owners also appreciate that this toilet comes with a five-year warranty.

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Gerber Ultra Dual Flush Elongated ErgoHeight DF-21-318

Pressure-assist, dual-flush toilet

$410

Estimated Price

Those with finicky plumbing may be interested in the Gerber Ultra Dual Flush toilet. This pressure-assist unit features a reliable 1.6-gallon flush for solid waste, while also offering users the option of a 1.1-gallon flush for liquids. Some drawbacks: Although its 3.125-inch trapway is an inch wider than most new gravity toilets, the 1.1 gpf mode didn't completely remove the blue dye in one expert liquid removal test. Plus, like other pressure assists toilets, it's a bit noisier than a gravity-based unit. The two-piece Gerber toilet's seat must be purchased separately and this toilet is only offered in three colors. Still, Gerber offers an impressive 10-year limited warranty on its china and vessel, and covers its other parts for five years.

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Kohler Purist Hatbox

Designer toilet

$2725

Estimated Price

No one gives the Kohler Purist top ratings for performance, but that's not really why you'd buy this toilet anyway. Rather, the Kohler Hatbox typifies the high-design look that's cropping up in new luxury homes and condos. Performance-wise, the Hatbox flushes nearly as well as the cheaper toilets above. Although this toilet requires an electrical outlet to power the pressure-assisted flush, owners say its flush is virtually silent and its self-closing seat doesn't clank shut. On the downside, a few owners say its electronic parts and pump needed repair within a one-year warranty period. The Kohler Purist is available in six colors.

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