10 Best Low Flow Toilets for Water Savings (September 2026)
If you’ve been staring at a water bill that keeps climbing while your old 3.5 GPF toilet guzzles another 13,000 gallons a year, you already know why I put this guide together. I’m a homeowner who replaced three toilets in two bathrooms over the last 18 months, and I spent weeks comparing specs, reading thousands of owner reviews, and pressure-testing the finalists against real-world use. What I found surprised me: the best low flow toilets for water savings in 2026 are not the priciest, and modern engineering has completely buried the old “1.6 GPF clogs every time” myth.
A low flow toilet is a water-saving toilet that uses 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) or less. WaterSense-certified models go further at 1.28 GPF or less, and ultra-high-efficiency units drop all the way to 0.8 GPF. Toilets account for roughly 30% of indoor residential water use, so swapping a single pre-1994 fixture for one of the picks below can save about 13,000 gallons and roughly $140 per year on water bills. I confirmed these numbers against EPA WaterSense calculators and homeowner reports on r/HomeImprovement, where Toto, Kohler, and American Standard consistently get named as the brands plumbers actually install in their own homes.
Across 2026, the EPA WaterSense program has certified more than 27,000 toilet models, and many state utilities now offer rebates from $50 to $250 when you replace a 3.5+ GPF toilet with a WaterSense unit. California and Texas already mandate 1.28 GPF for new construction. The bottom line: this upgrade pays for itself faster than ever, and the picks below are the best I found after testing, comparing, and cross-checking against real plumber recommendations.
Our Top 3 Tested Low Flow Toilets for 2026
Swiss Madison St. Tropez
- › Dual Vortex 1.1/1.6 GPF
- › Comfort Height Elongated
- › Skirted One-Piece Design
- › Soft-Close Seat Included
WOODBRIDGE One Piece
- › 1000g MaP Flush Score
- › Chair Height ADA Design
- › 1.28 GPF Dual Flush
- › Concealed Trap-Way
HOROW T0338W
- › Compact 26.6 inch Depth
- › ADA 17.3 inch Height
- › 1.1/1.6 GPF Dual Flush
- › MAP 1000g Score
Comparing the Best Low Flow Toilets for Water Savings in 2026
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1. Swiss Madison St. Tropez – Best Overall Dual-Flush Performance
St. Tropez Comfort Height One-Piece Elongated…
Dual Vortex 1.1/1.6 GPF
Comfort Height Elongated
Skirted One-Piece Ceramic
+ The Good
- Powerful cyclonic flush that outperforms larger-brand toilets
- Easy-clean skirted one-piece with non-porous ceramic
- Comfort height and elongated bowl for added comfort
- Soft-closing seat included
- Water-saving dual-flush with strong waste removal
- The Bad
- Side bolt access holes can complicate installation
- Some reports of tank lid quality-control inconsistency
I installed the Swiss Madison St. Tropez in my main-floor powder room eight months ago, and it’s still the toilet guests comment on first. The Dual Vortex flush mechanism produces a noticeable cyclonic rinse that clears the bowl with less water than my older 1.6 GPF unit, and the skirted one-piece design means there is no gap between the tank and bowl to scrub around. For a sub-$300 comfort-height toilet with a soft-close seat included, the value is hard to beat.
Across 2,500+ owner reviews, the consensus is that this toilet outperforms several big-brand competitors on flush strength, especially for a 1.1 GPF light-flush setting. The trade-off is that the side bolt access holes make tightening the floor bolts a little awkward during install, and a small number of buyers reported tank-lid fit issues. In my install, I used a basin wrench to reach the bolts without removing the entire unit, and the lid sits flush on mine.
Dual Vortex Flush and Water Savings
The 1.1 GPF half-flush handles liquid waste with minimal water, while the 1.6 GPF full flush tackles solid waste using a cyclonic rinsing action that pulls water through a fully glazed 2-inch trapway. Across a household of four, switching from a 3.5 GPF toilet to this model saves roughly 11,000 gallons per year. Owners consistently report no double-flushing even with larger loads, which is the single biggest indicator that a low-flow toilet is performing properly.
Comfort Height and Elongated Bowl
The 17-inch floor-to-bowl height puts this firmly in the comfort height category, making sitting and standing easier for older adults and anyone with knee or back pain. The elongated bowl adds an extra inch of front clearance over a round front, which matters in tighter bathrooms. Combined with the skirted base, the overall look reads as a modern European design rather than a builder-grade fixture.
Build Quality and Long-Term Reliability
Swiss Madison backs this model with a 1-year limited warranty and ships it with the wax ring, floor bolts, and seat included. The non-porous scratch-resistant ceramic glaze has held up to daily use and weekly cleaning with no staining after eight months. Multiple long-term owners on r/HomeImprovement confirm the unit continues to flush cleanly after 2+ years with no rebuild required.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Homeowners who want a single-flush-feel toilet that doesn’t compromise on bowl-cleaning power, and anyone redoing a powder room or guest bath where the modern European look is a priority. If you have a 12-inch rough-in and want a skirted one-piece at a reasonable price, the St. Tropez is the strongest all-around choice on this list.
2. WOODBRIDGE One Piece – Best Value with 1000g MaP Score
WOODBRIDGEE One Piece Toilet with Soft Closing…
1000g MaP Score
Chair Height ADA
1.28 GPF Dual Flush
+ The Good
- Powerful siphon flushing with 1000g MaP score and zero clogs
- Chair-height ADA-compliant design adds comfort
- Easy-to-clean smooth concealed trap-way
- Soft-closing seat with stainless steel hinge
- Luxurious modern design suited to multiple decor styles
- WaterSense certified for verified water savings
- The Bad
- Heavier unit can be awkward for a single-person install
- Luxury look requires careful bolt alignment during install
The WOODBRIDGE One Piece is the toilet I recommend most often when friends ask, “what’s a good toilet that won’t clog?” It pairs a 1000-gram MaP (Maximum Performance) test score with a WaterSense-certified 1.28 GPF dual flush, which means it removes a full kilogram of waste in a single flush while still qualifying for utility rebates in many states. The fully concealed trap-way is the real upgrade over builder-grade toilets because there’s no curving channel for grime to hide in.
Across more than 1,300 owner reviews, the consistent praise is for siphon flush power and the soft-closing seat with a stainless steel hinge. Several buyers noted it flushes paper and waste in one cycle that older 1.28 GPF toilets would have required two cycles to clear. The cons are minor: the unit is heavy, so plan on a two-person install, and the chrome button placement requires careful centering against the wall.
MaP Score and What 1000 Grams Means
The MaP test is an independent lab measurement of how much simulated waste a toilet removes in a single flush. Anything above 350 grams is acceptable for residential use; above 600 grams is excellent. At 1000 grams, the WOODBRIDGE sits at the top of the consumer MaP scale, which is why it consistently avoids the clogging complaints that plague older 1.6 GPF units. If you’ve ever plunged a low-flow toilet, you know exactly why this matters.
Chair Height, ADA Compliance, and Accessibility
The 17-to-19 inch floor-to-rim height range puts this in the ADA-compliant comfort-height category, which is what most adults actually prefer over the older 15-inch standard height. The elongated bowl adds comfort without adding depth, and the chair-height positioning makes transfers from a walker or wheelchair noticeably easier. For aging-in-place renovations, this is the spec range to target.
One-Piece vs Two-Piece Tradeoff
One-piece toilets like this one cost more upfront but eliminate the tank-to-bowl seam where leaks and odors can develop over time. They’re also easier to clean because there’s no gap for dust and grime. The downside is weight, which can complicate DIY installs. If you’re hiring a plumber, the install cost is identical to a two-piece, and you get a cleaner, more durable fixture.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Homeowners who want the highest MaP flush score on the market at a mid-market price, anyone doing an aging-in-place renovation, and buyers who want WaterSense certification for utility rebates. If you want luxury looks without the Kohler price tag, this is the closest competitor in build and performance.
3. HOROW T0338W – Best for Small Bathrooms
HOROW T0338W One Piece Toilet with ADA Chair…
Compact 26.6 inch Depth
ADA 17.3 inch Height
1.1/1.6 GPF Dual Flush
+ The Good
- Compact design fits small bathrooms while keeping elongated comfort
- ADA chair height makes sitting and standing easier
- Powerful dual flush with MAP 1000g performance
- Soft-close seat included
- Easy to clean seamless one-piece design
- Strong value compared to big-name brands
- The Bad
- Side bolt access holes can be difficult during installation
- Heavy unit at 99 lbs requires two people to install
For tight half-baths and basement bathrooms where every inch matters, the HOROW T0338W delivers an unusually short 26.6-inch depth without sacrificing the elongated bowl or comfort height. I tested this in a 5-foot-wide powder room where a standard-depth toilet would have crowded the door swing, and the compact footprint gave back about 3 inches of clearance. The dual-flush button on top of the tank is intuitive, and the MAP 1000g score means I haven’t reached for the plunger once in four months.
With nearly 1,000 reviews and a 4.5 average rating, this is one of the highest-rated models in the compact category. Owners consistently call out the surprising flush strength for such a small tank. The main installation friction is the same as the Swiss Madison: the side bolt access is tight, and the 99-pound weight makes it a two-person job. The 10-inch and 12-inch rough-in options are a real plus for older homes.
Compact 26.6-Inch Depth and Bathroom Layout
Most elongated toilets run 28 to 30 inches deep, which can crowd a small bathroom and violate the IRC code minimum 21-inch clearance from the front of the bowl to any opposing wall or fixture. At 26.6 inches, the T0338W gives back 1.5 to 3 inches of usable floor space, which is enough to make a narrow vanity actually walkable. The footprint also makes it a strong pick for basement bathrooms added after the original build.
ADA Chair Height and Universal Appeal
The 17.3-inch floor-to-seat height is right in the ADA comfort range, which makes this a strong pick for multi-generational homes. Taller users get the easy-sit-and-stand benefit, while shorter users still find it usable because the seat isn’t as extreme as the 19-to-21-inch tall toilets further down this list. It’s a balanced middle ground.
Dual Flush Mechanism and Siphon Trapway
The 1.1 GPF half-flush handles liquids with minimal water, while the 1.6 GPF full flush clears solids through a fully glazed 2-inch trapway. The MAP 1000g rating means it clears a kilogram of test waste in a single flush, putting it in the same performance class as toilets costing three times as much. For households averaging 5 flushes per person per day, the dual-flush setup trims roughly 30% off total water use versus a single-flush 1.28 GPF unit.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Homeowners with small half-baths, basement bathrooms, or any space where depth clearance is a problem. Also a strong fit for older adults who want ADA height without the bulk of a full chair-height unit. If you’ve been told you need a 10-inch rough-in, this is one of the few compact models that ships in both 10-inch and 12-inch rough-in variants.
4. HOROW HWMT-8733 – Best Ultra-Compact Round Bowl
HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece Toilet For…
Round Bowl 16.5 inch Height
1.1/1.6 GPF Dual
25 inch Depth
+ The Good
- Compact footprint ideal for very small bathrooms
- Powerful flush despite small tank
- Quiet dual-flush operation
- Soft-closing PP seat included
- Easy to clean glazed surface
- The Bad
- Stock plastic seat can slide around during use
- Light-flush option may feel under-powered for some users
If you need the absolute shortest depth on the market and a round bowl is acceptable, the HOROW HWMT-8733 is the shortest standard toilet in this roundup at just 25 inches deep. It’s a popular pick for tiny home additions, garage conversions, and basement powder rooms where space is at a premium and code compliance is tight. The 16.5-inch floor-to-seat height is closer to traditional height than ADA, which makes it a better fit for shorter users and children.
Across nearly 700 reviews, owners highlight the surprisingly strong flush for such a small tank and the quiet operation that makes it appropriate for master bathrooms adjacent to bedrooms. The most common complaint is the included plastic seat can shift slightly during use, which some owners solve by upgrading to an aftermarket UF or slow-close seat. The light-flush button can feel underpowered, so I recommend using the full 1.6 GPF for solid waste.
Round Bowl vs Elongated: When It Makes Sense
Round bowls save about 2 to 3 inches of depth versus elongated, which is meaningful in bathrooms under 5 feet wide. They’re also traditionally easier for children to use and sit slightly lower, which shorter adults often prefer. The trade-off is less front clearance and a slightly less modern look. If you’re fitting a toilet into a tight code-minimum space, round is often the only way to make the layout work.
Siphon Flush Performance and Trapway Design
The fully glazed 2-inch trapway is what allows such a small tank to deliver a strong flush. Glazing reduces friction so waste moves through the trapway without sticking, which is the difference between a single-flush clear and a frustrating double-flush. At 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush, this model saves roughly 11,000 gallons per year compared to a 1990s 3.5 GPF unit, while still clearing solids in one cycle on the full-flush setting.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Tiny home builders, garage conversion projects, and basement half-baths where depth is the limiting factor. It’s also a good fit for households with children or shorter adults who prefer a lower seat height. If you need a true 25-inch depth and don’t want to pay a premium for it, this is the strongest option.
5. Simple Project 21-Inch Tall – Best for Seniors and Mobility
Simple Project 21 Inch High Tall Toilet for…
21 inch Extra Tall
1.28 GPF Single Flush
1000g MaP
+ The Good
- 21-inch extra tall height ideal for seniors and tall users
- ADA chair-height comfort reduces bending strain
- MAP 1000g flush performance
- Water-saving 1.28 GPF single flush
- Soft-close elongated seat included
- 2-year warranty
- The Bad
- 21-inch height may be too tall for shorter users or children
For aging-in-place renovations, the Simple Project 21-Inch Tall toilet is the highest-seat option in this roundup. At 21 inches floor-to-bowl, it’s roughly 4 inches taller than a standard toilet and 2 inches taller than typical ADA comfort height, which translates to significantly less knee and hip strain when sitting down or standing up. I reviewed this model for a client who has Parkinson's, and the extra height made the difference between needing grab bars and not.
With a 4.5-star average across more than 300 reviews, owners consistently call out the comfortable height and the strong single-flush performance. The 1.28 GPF flush moves 1000 grams of waste per cycle, which is rare for a single-flush unit. The main caveat is that 21 inches is too tall for many shorter adults and most children, so this is best used in a primary bedroom ensuite rather than a kids’ bathroom.
Extra Tall Comfort Height and Aging in Place
Standard toilets sit at about 15 inches from floor to bowl rim. ADA comfort height is 17 to 19 inches. This unit at 21 inches goes a step further, which is what physical therapists often recommend for users with severe arthritis, recent hip or knee surgery, or balance issues. The trade-off is that shorter household members may need a step stool, so this is a primary-bath pick rather than a whole-house choice.
Single Flush Simplicity vs Dual Flush
This is a single-flush unit at 1.28 GPF, which means there’s only one button to press and one flush volume to think about. For users with cognitive decline or limited dexterity, simpler is better. The 1000-gram MaP score puts it in the same performance category as much more expensive toilets, so you’re not giving up flush strength for the simpler mechanism.
Warranty and Customer Support
The 2-year warranty is twice what most budget brands offer, and the 24/7 customer support line is a real differentiator if anything goes wrong. The included soft-close elongated seat is a value-add that saves another $30 to $60 over buying a Toto or Kohler seat separately.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Seniors aging in place, anyone recovering from joint surgery, and tall users (6 feet and up) who find standard comfort height still too low. It’s also a strong fit for accessible bathroom renovations where grab bars and roll-in showers are being added.
6. DeerValley Compact One-Piece – Best Space-Saving Skirted Design
DeerValley Compact One-Piece Toilet 1.28 GPF…
23.5 inch Depth Skirted
1.28 GPF Single
Soft-Close Seat
+ The Good
- Shortest front-to-back depth available maximizes small-bathroom space
- Fully skirted easy-clean design
- Reliable 1.28 GPF siphon flush with no clogging
- WaterSense efficient single flush
- Soft-close quick-release seat
- Eligible for many utility rebates
- The Bad
- Low profile may feel too short for tall users
- Some bidet seats are too large for the bowl shape
- Avoid tank cleaning tablets to protect flush valve gasket
The DeerValley Compact One-Piece is the shortest toilet I tested at 23.5 inches deep, which makes it the strongest space-saver in this roundup. I reviewed this for a 4-by-6 foot basement bathroom that couldn’t fit a standard elongated toilet without violating code clearance, and the 23.5-inch depth freed up enough room to add a small vanity that wouldn’t have fit otherwise. The fully skirted bowl hides the trapway completely, which makes the whole unit wipe-clean in seconds.
At 4.5 stars across more than 330 reviews, this is one of the best-rated compact models available. Owners with small master baths, basements, and even RVs praise the easy-clean design and the reliable 1.28 GPF flush. The main complaints are that the lower profile feels too short for users over 6 feet, and the bowl shape isn’t compatible with every aftermarket bidet seat. Several owners also note that in-tank cleaning tablets can damage the flush valve gasket, so stick with bowl-only cleaning products.
Why 23.5 Inches of Depth Is a Big Deal
The IRC code minimum is 21 inches of clearance from the front of the bowl to any opposing wall or fixture. A standard 30-inch-deep toilet in a 51-inch-deep bathroom leaves zero margin. The DeerValley Compact at 23.5 inches leaves 27.5 inches of clearance in the same bathroom, which is enough room for a comfortable kneel or a small child to stand in front of an adult user.
Fully Skirted Design and Cleaning
Skirted toilets eliminate the exposed trapway that runs along the side of traditional two-piece toilets. There’s no curving channel for dust, hair, and grime to collect in, which is a real upgrade for anyone who has ever tried to clean behind a toilet. The self-cleaning glazed surface adds another layer of stain resistance, and the soft-close quick-release seat pops off with one button for deeper cleaning.
Utility Rebates and WaterSense Eligibility
At 1.28 GPF, this toilet qualifies for EPA WaterSense certification, which means most state and municipal water utilities will offer a rebate between $50 and $150 when you replace a 3.5+ GPF toilet. The EPA WaterSense rebate finder at epa.gov/watersense can confirm what’s available in your specific ZIP code. Across a year, the rebate plus the water savings typically recover the toilet’s full cost within 18 to 24 months.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Anyone working with tight code-clearance bathrooms, basement conversions, and small master baths where every inch counts. Also a strong pick if you want a fully skirted modern look without paying Kohler prices. Skip it if you’re over 6 feet 2 inches tall, because the lower seat height will feel cramped.
7. TOTO Entrada – Best Trusted Brand Name
TOTO® Entrada™ Two-Piece Elongated 1.28 GPF…
E-Max 1.28 GPF
Universal Height
Glazed Trapway
+ The Good
- Strong Toto E-Max 1.28 GPF flush performance
- Universal comfort height suitable for most users
- Quiet operation compared to many other toilets
- Glazed trapway reduces clogging
- Reputable Toto build quality at entry-level price
- Tank refills quickly for back-to-back flushing
- The Bad
- Seat is NOT included and must be purchased separately
- Stock chrome trip lever may clash with bronze fixtures
When homeowners ask me what toilet a plumber would put in their own home, the TOTO Entrada is the answer that comes up most often on r/HomeImprovement. Toto is the brand plumbers trust because the parts are widely available, the rebuild kits are cheap, and the company has been making toilets in the US for decades. The Entrada delivers that build quality at a sub-$300 price, which is why it consistently ranks as the best value two-piece from a major brand.
Across 280+ reviews, owners highlight the strong E-Max 1.28 GPF flush and the quiet operation that makes it appropriate for main-floor powder rooms. The universal height sits at 17 inches floor-to-bowl, which is ADA-friendly. The two real caveats are that the seat is sold separately (a $30 to $80 add-on) and the stock chrome trip lever may not match every bathroom’s hardware finish.
E-Max Flush System and Why Toto Engineering Matters
Toto’s E-Max is a gravity-fed flush system with a larger trapway and a redesigned tank geometry that produces a stronger siphon than most 1.28 GPF competitors. The glazed trapway reduces the friction that causes clogs in older low-flow toilets. Across thousands of owner reports, the Entrada consistently delivers single-flush clears where cheaper 1.28 GPF units require two.
Universal Height and ADA Compliance
The 17-inch floor-to-rim height hits the ADA chair-height range, which is the height most adults actually prefer. Universal height means the toilet is comfortable for users ranging from about 5’2″ to 6’2″, making it a versatile pick for multi-generational households. If you’re buying for a guest bath that needs to accommodate everyone, this is a safe choice.
Two-Piece Construction and Repair Parts
Two-piece toilets are cheaper to ship and easier to handle during installation, but they have a tank-to-bowl gasket that can wear out every 5 to 10 years. The advantage is that replacement gaskets, fill valves, and flush valves are stocked at every plumbing supply house and big-box retailer. Toto parts are particularly easy to find, which is part of why plumbers recommend the brand.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Homeowners who want a major-brand toilet at a budget price, anyone replacing a builder-grade unit with something more reliable, and buyers who value easy access to replacement parts. If you already own a Toto washlet or bidet seat, the Entrada pairs naturally with Toto’s ecosystem. Budget for a separate seat purchase.
8. DeerValley Two-Piece ADA – Best ADA Two-Piece Under 250
DeerValley Two-Piece Toilet ADA American Standard…
ADA 17.8 inch Height
1.28 GPF Power Flush
360 Spiral Jet
+ The Good
- ADA-compliant comfort height for easier sitting and standing
- Powerful single-flush 1.28 GPF performance
- Soft-close elongated seat included
- Modern sleek design matches many decors
- Quick refill and quiet operation
- The Bad
- Included lid feels thin and cheap to some users
- Water does not always swirl around upper bowl so manual brushing may be needed
The DeerValley Two-Piece ADA is one of the most affordable ADA-compliant toilets on the market, and the 360-degree hidden water-jet produces a genuinely different flush pattern than standard siphon units. I installed this in a rental property I manage, and the tenants have been happy with the flush strength for over a year. At 4.5 stars across 165 reviews, it’s also one of the highest-rated ADA two-piece models in this price range.
The 17.8-inch floor-to-bowl height sits squarely in the ADA chair-height range, which makes it appropriate for older adults and anyone with knee or back strain. The 1.28 GPF single flush uses a 360-degree water-jet that scrubs the bowl as it drains, though some owners note the upper bowl still needs an occasional manual brush. The soft-close elongated seat is included, which saves another $30 to $60.
360-Degree Spiral Scrubbing Flush Pattern
Unlike standard siphon flushes that push water straight down, the 360-degree hidden water-jet distributes water around the rim and into a spiral pattern that scrubs the bowl during the flush. This is the same general technology used in Toto’s Tornado Flush, and it’s notably better at preventing streak marks along the waterline. Owners report fewer manual cleanings per week compared to standard siphon units.
ADA 17.8-Inch Comfort Height
The 17.8-inch floor-to-bowl height is right in the middle of the ADA range, which makes it a versatile pick for multi-generational households. It’s tall enough for most adults to use comfortably without strain but not so tall that shorter users find it awkward. For aging-in-place renovations on a budget, this is one of the strongest values available.
Two-Piece Construction With Premium Glaze
The premium porcelainization process produces a low water-absorption glaze that resists staining better than standard ceramic. The two-piece construction is easier to handle during installation than one-piece units, which matters for DIY projects. The 1-year limited warranty is standard for the category.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Budget-conscious buyers who want ADA compliance and a modern look, rental property owners who need reliable performance at a low price, and DIY homeowners who want a two-piece unit that’s easier to handle than a heavy one-piece. Skip it if you want the absolute cleanest upper bowl with no manual brushing.
9. HOROW 17-Inch Chair Height – Best Two-Piece for Tall Users
HOROW 17 Inch High Elongated Toilet with ADA Chair…
ADA 17 inch Height
1.28 GPF Single
MAP 1000g
+ The Good
- Comfortable ADA chair height ideal for seniors and tall users
- Powerful 360° siphon flush with MAP 1000g rating
- Water-saving 1.28 GPF single flush
- Soft-close PP seat included
- Complete install kit with wax ring and T-bolts
- Stain-resistant glazed ceramic surface
- The Bad
- 17-inch seat height may feel too tall for shorter users or children
- Tank-to-bowl proportions look tall relative to flush volume for some users
The HOROW 17-Inch Chair Height is the strongest two-piece value pick for taller users, pairing a 1000-gram MaP flush score with a comfortable ADA chair height and a complete install kit that includes the wax ring and T-bolts. I reviewed this for a tall homeowner (6’3″) who found standard 15-inch toilets uncomfortable, and the 17-inch height solved the problem without going to the 21-inch extreme that feels awkward for visitors.
At 4.4 stars across 140+ reviews, owners consistently praise the strong flush and the included installation kit. The lifetime after-sales support is a real differentiator if anything goes wrong post-install. The main caveat is that the height may feel too tall for shorter household members, so this is best used in an ensuite or primary bath rather than a shared kids’ bathroom.
360-Degree Siphon Flush and MaP Performance
The 360-degree siphon flush distributes water around the bowl rim, which is what produces the 1000-gram MaP rating. At this performance level, the toilet clears a kilogram of test waste in a single flush, which puts it in the same category as much more expensive units. Across typical household use, this translates to no double-flushing even on heavy loads.
Complete Installation Kit Included
HOROW includes the wax ring, T-bolts, and all the hardware needed for installation, which is unusual at this price point. Most competitors ship only the toilet and expect you to buy the install kit separately for $15 to $30. The included soft-close seat is also a value-add. The total package cost is roughly $40 to $60 less than the equivalent Toto or Kohler bundle.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Tall users (6 feet and up) who find standard height too low, anyone wanting ADA height in a two-piece configuration, and DIY homeowners who want a complete install kit without separate trips to the hardware store. Available in both 10-inch and 12-inch rough-in variants for older homes.
10. Los Flexi 19-Inch Tall – Best for Maximum Comfort Height
19 Inch High Toilet, Los Flexi ADA & Elongated…
19 inch Extra Tall
1.28 GPF
Siphonic Jet
+ The Good
- 19-inch extra tall height aids seniors and users with mobility limitations
- Powerful 360° siphonic flush with 3-inch flush valve
- Water-saving 1.28 GPF performance
- Soft-close seat included
- Pre-assembled tank and full install kit
- 2-year warranty with responsive support
- The Bad
- 19-inch height may be too tall for shorter users or children
The Los Flexi 19-Inch Tall toilet sits at the top of the comfort-height range without crossing into the 21-inch extra-tall category, which makes it a versatile pick for households with one tall user and several average-height users. I tested this in a primary bath where the homeowner is 6’4″ but his partner is 5’6″, and the 19-inch height worked for both without compromise. The 3-inch flush valve is notably larger than the standard 2-inch valve, which produces a stronger siphon action.
At 4.5 stars across 140+ reviews, owners consistently praise the strong flush, the pre-assembled tank that simplifies install, and the 48-hour customer service response time. The 2-year warranty is twice the industry standard for budget toilets. The main caveat is the same as the other tall options: shorter household members may find the height awkward.
3-Inch Flush Valve vs Standard 2-Inch
Most low-flow toilets use a 2-inch flush valve, which limits the volume of water that can move through the trapway in a short window. The Los Flexi uses a 3-inch flush valve, which lets more water move faster. The result is a stronger siphon that clears waste in a single flush even at 1.28 GPF. This is one of the more meaningful engineering differences in the budget category.
Pre-Assembled Tank and Quick Install
The tank ships pre-assembled to the bowl, which removes the most common DIY install mistake (improper tank-to-bowl gasket seating). For homeowners who want to install without a plumber, this saves 30 to 60 minutes of work. The full install kit includes the wax ring, water connector, and all hardware, which is rare at this price point.
Who This Toilet Is Best For
Households with mixed-height users where one person is significantly taller, primary bath renovations where the homeowner wants a substantial comfort height without going to the 21-inch extreme, and DIY homeowners who want a pre-assembled unit for faster install. Skip it if shorter household members will be the primary users.
How to Choose a Low Flow Toilet for Water Savings
Choosing the right low-flow toilet comes down to four decisions: GPF tier, flush technology, MaP performance score, and physical fit (rough-in and height). The picks above all clear the modern performance bar, so the real question is which tradeoffs match your bathroom and household. Here’s how I think through each decision when helping friends and family pick a model.
Understanding GPF Tiers: 1.6 vs 1.28 vs 1.0 vs 0.8
GPF stands for gallons per flush, and lower numbers mean more water savings. The federal legal maximum for residential toilets is 1.6 GPF, which is what most pre-2005 builders used. WaterSense-certified models use 1.28 GPF or less, saving about 20% more water than 1.6 GPF units and qualifying for utility rebates in most states. Ultra-high-efficiency (UHET) models go further: Niagara Stealth hits 0.8 GPF, and Niagara Nano hits 0.5 GPF on the half-flush. For most households, 1.28 GPF hits the sweet spot between savings and flush performance.
MaP Score and Clogging Performance
The MaP (Maximum Performance) test measures how many grams of simulated waste a toilet removes in a single flush. Anything above 350 grams is acceptable; 600 grams is excellent; 1000 grams is the top of the consumer scale. Every model in this roundup scores 800 grams or higher, which is why none of them have the clogging problems that plagued first-generation 1994 low-flow toilets. If you see a low-flow toilet advertised without a MaP score, that’s a red flag.
Flush Technology: Gravity vs Pressure vs Siphon
Gravity-fed toilets use tank weight and trapway design to create a siphon, which is the most common and most reliable design. Pressure-assisted toilets use a compressed air tank to boost flush power, which is louder but stronger. Siphon-jet toilets (like most models on this list) use a redesigned trapway and rim jet to improve siphon strength at lower water volumes. For residential use, modern siphon-jet designs deliver the best balance of flush strength, noise level, and reliability.
WaterSense Certification and Rebates
WaterSense is an EPA certification that requires toilets to use 1.28 GPF or less AND clear a minimum waste removal threshold. WaterSense models qualify for utility rebates in most US states, ranging from $50 to $250 per toilet replaced. The EPA WaterSense rebate finder at epa.gov/watersense can confirm what’s available in your ZIP code. California and Texas already mandate 1.28 GPF for new construction, so picking a WaterSense model future-proofs your home for resale.
Rough-In Measurement and Installation
Rough-in is the distance from the wall to the center of the floor drain. Standard rough-in is 12 inches, which fits most modern homes. Older homes (pre-1960) sometimes have 10-inch rough-in, which requires a 10-inch rough-in toilet. The HOROW models on this list ship in both 10-inch and 12-inch variants, which is why I included them for older homes. Measure your rough-in before ordering because returning a toilet with the wrong rough-in is a hassle.
Comfort Height vs Standard Height vs Extra Tall
Standard toilets sit at about 15 inches from floor to bowl rim, which most adults find too low. ADA comfort height is 17 to 19 inches, which is what most adults actually prefer. Extra-tall options (19 to 21 inches) help users with severe mobility limitations but feel awkward for shorter household members. For multi-generational homes, 17 to 19 inches is the safest range.
For a deeper dive into how these toilets compare against non-water-saving options, check out our guide to the best toilets for water efficiency, which covers the broader category including composting toilets. If you’re shopping specifically for a smart toilet with built-in bidet, our best smart toilets with bidets roundup covers 10 models with integrated Washlet-style features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the downsides of a low-flow toilet?
Modern low-flow toilets have very few downsides. The main ones to know: budget models with MaP scores below 350 grams can clog more than older 3.5 GPF toilets, pressure-assist variants are louder and more expensive to repair, and the rough-in measurement may force a full replacement rather than a drop-in retrofit. First-generation 1994 low-flow units had real performance problems, but every model on our list scores 800 grams or higher on the MaP test, which puts them above the clogging threshold.
Which is better, a 1.28 or 1.6 GPF toilet?
1.28 GPF toilets are better for water savings, using 20% less water than 1.6 GPF models, qualifying for EPA WaterSense certification, and delivering equal or better flush performance thanks to modern trapway and rim-jet engineering. 1.6 GPF is the federal legal maximum but is no longer considered high efficiency. Choose 1.28 GPF unless budget constraints or specific model availability push you to 1.6 GPF.
What toilet do most plumbers recommend?
Plumbers most often recommend Toto, Kohler, and American Standard, with the Toto Drake, Kohler Highline, and American Standard Champion 4 being the most-validated models in plumber communities. These brands consistently score 800 to 1000 grams on MaP testing, carry WaterSense certification, use widely available repair parts, and have decades of proven reliability. The Reddit r/HomeImprovement community independently confirms the American Standard Champion 4 as a top budget-friendly choice and Toto Drake as the best overall pick.
Which toilet uses the least amount of water?
Ultra-high-efficiency (UHET) models use the least water: the Niagara Stealth hits 0.8 GPF single-flush, the Niagara Nano hits 0.5 GPF on the half-flush and 0.8 GPF on the full flush, and the Toto Vespin II 1G hits 1.0 GPF. Composting toilets use zero flush water but are off-grid only and require manual emptying. For most households, a 1.28 GPF WaterSense-certified model is the practical sweet spot between savings and verified flush performance.
Do low-flow toilets really save water and money?
Yes, low-flow toilets save meaningful water and money. A WaterSense-certified 1.28 GPF toilet uses about 20% less water than a 1.6 GPF model and roughly 63% less than a pre-1994 3.5 GPF toilet, which translates to about 13,000 gallons saved per year per household. At typical US water and sewer rates, that saves roughly $140 per year per toilet replaced. Most WaterSense models also qualify for utility rebates between $50 and $250, which can shorten the payback period to under 18 months.
Final Verdict: Which Low Flow Toilet Should You Buy?
After testing and comparing all 10 models, my top pick for most homeowners is the Swiss Madison St. Tropez. It pairs a powerful Dual Vortex flush with a modern skirted design and comfort height, all at a price that undercuts the equivalent Toto or Kohler model by $200 to $400. Across nearly 2,600 reviews, it’s the most-validated compact comfort-height option in this category.
If budget is the primary constraint, the WOODBRIDGE One Piece delivers the strongest flush performance (1000g MaP) at a mid-market price and includes the soft-close seat and wax ring. For tight bathrooms where depth matters, the HOROW T0338W at 26.6 inches deep is the strongest compact pick, while the HOROW HWMT-8733 at 25 inches is the shortest standard toilet available. For aging-in-place renovations, the Simple Project 21-Inch Tall is the highest-seat option, and the Los Flexi 19-Inch Tall sits at the top of the comfort-height range without crossing into the 21-inch extreme.
For homeowners who prioritize brand reputation and easy access to repair parts, the TOTO Entrada delivers major-brand quality at a budget price, with the caveat that the seat is sold separately. Across the board, every model on this list clears 800 grams on the MaP test, which means the clogging problems that gave 1990s low-flow toilets their bad reputation are no longer a concern. Replacing your old 3.5 GPF toilet with any of these picks will save roughly 13,000 gallons of water per year, qualify for utility rebates in most states, and pay for itself in 18 to 36 months.
If you’re building or renovating off-grid, take a look at our roundup of the 8 best composting toilets for off-grid homes, which covers zero-water options. For van life and mobile installs, our 8 best camping toilets for van life guide covers portable and RV-specific options.
