When you think of bathroom design, your mind probably jumps to vanities, tiles, or lighting. But one of the most essential (and often overlooked) fixtures is the toilet. With so many toilet types available today—from one-piece toilets to dual-flush models—choosing the right one can significantly impact your comfort, water usage, and even the look of your space.
In this guide, we’ll break down each type of toilet, exploring its pros and cons, average cost, and how to pick the right one for your bathroom renovation.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Basic Types of Toilets
Toilets have come a long way in design and technology. While traditional gravity-flush toilets still dominate the market, new models now focus on water-saving performance, easier cleaning, and sleek aesthetics. Below are the basic types of toilets you’ll encounter when shopping for your next upgrade.
1. Two-Piece Toilets
The two-piece toilet—where the toilet tank and bowl are separate pieces—is the most common style found in American homes.
Pros
- Affordable: Two-piece toilets tend to cost less than one-piece models, ranging from $150–$400 for standard designs.
- Easy to repair: Because the tank and bowl are separate, you can replace or repair one part without touching the other.
- Widely available: These are the most common toilets sold, making replacement parts easy to find.
Cons
- More seams = more cleaning: The joint between the tank and bowl can collect grime, making it difficult to keep clean.
- Heavier and bulkier: Installation can be a bit cumbersome due to the separate pieces.
Best for: Homeowners looking for an economical, reliable flush toilet that’s easy to maintain.
2. One-Piece Toilets
A one-piece toilet integrates the tank and bowl into a single, seamless unit. This toilet design offers a sleek appearance and is easier to clean.
Pros
- Easier to clean: With no gap between the tank and bowl, dirt and bacteria have fewer places to hide.
- Compact and stylish: Great for small bathrooms or modern interiors.
- Durable: Fewer parts mean fewer potential leaks or alignment issues.
Cons
- More expensive: Expect prices between $400–$1,000, depending on features.
- Heavier: Harder to move and install than a two-piece toilet.
- Difficult to repair: If a crack occurs, the entire unit may need replacement.
Best for: Homeowners prioritizing bathroom design, hygiene, and minimal maintenance.
3. Wall-Mounted Toilets (Wall-Hung Toilets)
If you’re going for a high-end or space-saving bathroom look, a wall-hung toilet (also known as a wall-mounted toilet) might be the way to go. The toilet is mounted directly to the wall, and the tank is hidden in the wall, leaving only the bowl visible.
Pros
- Sleek, modern aesthetic: Perfect for contemporary bathroom design.
- Space-saving: Creates a cleaner visual line and makes small bathrooms appear larger.
- Easy to clean: Since the floor beneath is clear, mopping is effortless.
Cons
- Expensive installation: Wall-mounted toilets cost $800–$2,000, plus additional costs for framing and plumbing inside the wall.
- Difficult to install: You’ll likely need a professional plumber.
- Maintenance access: The tank hidden in the wall can complicate repairs.
Best for: Modern homes where style, accessibility, and cleanliness are top priorities.
4. Gravity-Flush Toilets
A gravity-flush toilet relies on—you guessed it—gravity. When the toilet is flushed, water from the toilet tank flows downward, clearing waste using simple pressure.
Pros
- Quiet operation: Less noise than other toilet types.
- Reliable: Fewer moving parts mean fewer mechanical issues.
- Water-saving models available: Many offer 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) or less.
Cons
- Weaker flush: May struggle with solid waste compared to pressure-assisted models.
- Can clog more easily if low-flow systems aren’t designed properly.
Cost range: Around $150–$500.
5. Pressure-Assisted Toilets
Unlike gravity systems, pressure-assisted toilets use compressed air inside the tank to forcefully push water into the bowl.
Pros
- Strong flush power: Excellent at clearing solid waste, minimizing clogs.
- Water-saving: Many models use just 1.1–1.3 gallons per flush.
- Ideal for shared bathrooms: Handles frequent use well.
Cons
- Noisy: The pressurized air makes a noticeable whoosh sound.
- Higher cost: Expect to pay $300–$800.
- Maintenance: More complex inner workings can mean costlier repairs.
Best for: Large families or commercial spaces needing a powerful flush toilet.
6. Dual-Flush Toilets
Dual-flush toilets have two buttons—one for liquid waste and another for solid waste. This allows you to control how much water is used each time.
Pros
- Water efficiency: Liquid waste flushes with around 0.8 GPF, and full flushes use 1.6 GPF.
- Eco-friendly: Great for conserving water and lowering utility bills.
- Variety: Available in both one-piece and two-piece designs.
Cons
- Higher upfront cost: Around $250–$600, but pays off in water savings.
- Learning curve: Guests unfamiliar with the two buttons might use the wrong one.
- Complex repairs: More moving parts can make maintenance trickier.
Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners or anyone seeking a water-saving toilet.
Learn more WaterSense toilets and their water-saving benefits from the EPA.
7. Low-Flow Toilets
A low-flow toilet is engineered to use minimal water—typically 1.28 gallons per flush or less—without compromising performance.
Pros
- Environmental benefit: Significantly reduces household water use.
- Complies with modern codes: Many states now require low-flow toilets in new builds.
- Eligible for rebates: In some areas, replacing old toilets can earn you a rebate.
Cons
- Flush strength varies: Older low-flow designs may require multiple flushes.
- May not suit every plumbing setup: Older homes with long drain runs might experience reduced efficiency.
Cost: $150–$400 depending on brand and design.
8. Bidet Toilets & Smart Toilets
Today’s bathroom design trends increasingly favor hygiene and comfort, leading to the rise of bidet toilets and smart toilets with integrated cleaning features, seat warmers, and automatic flushing.
Pros
- Superior hygiene: Reduces the need for toilet paper.
- Comfort features: Heated toilet seat, night lights, and even air dryers.
- Modern aesthetics: Streamlined toilet design enhances luxury bathrooms.
Cons
- Expensive: Prices start around $1,000 and can exceed $3,000.
- Requires power source: Needs an electrical outlet nearby.
- Maintenance: Complex electronics can be difficult to repair.
Best for: Homeowners seeking comfort, innovation, and an upscale bathroom experience.
9. Bowl Shapes: Round vs. Elongated Toilets
When choosing a toilet for your home, consider the shape of the toilet bowl. Most toilets come in round or elongated styles, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
Round Toilet
A round bowl is compact and ideal for small bathrooms.
Pros
- Fits tight spaces.
- Usually more affordable ($150–$300).
- Child-friendly due to smaller seat size.
Cons
- Less comfortable for adults.
- May not match modern aesthetics.
Best for: Guest bathrooms or powder rooms with limited space.
Elongated Toilet
An elongated bowl (also known as an elongate toilet) has an oval shape that offers more seating comfort.
Pros
- More comfortable seating.
- Easier to clean due to smoother contours.
- Modern toilet design complements updated bathrooms.
Cons
- Slightly longer—may not fit in tight spaces.
- Tend to cost more ($200–$600).
Best for: Master bathrooms or high-traffic family bathrooms.
10. Wall-Hung vs. Floor-Mounted Toilets: Design & Installation
When deciding between wall-mounted toilets and standard toilets that rest on the floor, consider ease of cleaning, cost, and bathroom layout.
- Wall-hung toilet: Mounted directly to the wall; tank hidden in the wall. Great for sleek, minimal spaces but difficult to install.
- Floor-mounted toilet: Standard installation with visible tank; easier to maintain and less costly.
Cost comparison:
- Wall-mounted installation: $1,000–$2,500 (including in-wall tank)
- Floor-mounted: $150–$600
Things to Consider When Choosing a Toilet
Things like choosing the right type of toilet for your home is harder than expected for many homeowners. But, we have some easy tips for you to follow. When deciding what type of toilet you want, keep these factors to consider in mind:
- Bathroom size: The size of your bathroom determines whether you can fit an elongated toilet bowl or if a round toilet is more practical.
- Flush power: Homes with older plumbing might benefit from a pressure-assisted toilet, while newer homes can rely on gravity-flush toilets.
- Water efficiency: Opt for low-flow or dual-flush models to save water.
- Ease of cleaning: A one-piece toilet or wall-mounted toilet makes cleaning simpler.
- Mobility issues: For households with elderly members, consider a comfort-height toilet (17–19 inches).
- Style and finish: Match your toilet design to the rest of your bathroom décor—from classic white porcelain to sleek matte black finishes.
Average Toilet Costs (2025)
| Type of Toilet | Average Cost (Unit + Installation) |
|---|---|
| Two-Piece Toilet | $200–$500 |
| One-Piece Toilet | $400–$1,000 |
| Wall-Mounted Toilet | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Pressure-Assisted Toilet | $300–$800 |
| Dual-Flush Toilet | $250–$600 |
| Low-Flow Toilet | $150–$400 |
| Smart/Bidet Toilet | $1,000–$3,000 |
Picking the Right Type of Toilet for Your Bathroom
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to toilets. Your ideal type of toilet depends on your space, budget, water-efficiency goals, and aesthetic preferences.
- For small bathrooms, a round toilet or wall-hung toilet saves space.
- For luxury and comfort, consider an elongated bowl or smart toilet.
- If you want to save water, choose a dual-flush or low-flow toilet.
Whatever your priorities, make sure to consult a licensed contractor to ensure your new toilet is properly plumbed and installed.
Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Request a quote through Koalaty Bath today to get matched with vetted bathroom remodeling contractors near you.
