Looking for the best modern toilets for your bathroom upgrade in 2026? I’ve spent the last three months testing ten of the most popular contemporary toilets on the market, and I have some strong opinions about which ones are worth your money.
Modern toilets have come a long way from the chunky, water-guzzling boxes of the 1990s. Today’s best modern toilets save up to 16,500 gallons of water per year, fit into tight spaces, and look genuinely beautiful. The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to get one that flushes well.
Our team tested everything from budget-friendly one-piece designs to feature-packed smart toilets. After dozens of flushes, several rounds of cleaning, and plenty of conversations with plumbers on Reddit, we narrowed down the ten best modern toilets that actually live up to the hype. Here’s what we found.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Modern Toilets
HOROW T0338W One Piece Toilet
- MaP 1000g flush
- 17.3 inch ADA height
- #1 bestseller in one-piece toilets
BAYROLL One Piece Sleek Modern Toilet
- MaP 1000g flush
- 17 inch chair height
- 0.9/1.28 GPF dual flush
Best Modern Toilets in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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HOROW T0338W |
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DeerValley DV-1F026 |
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WOODBRIDGE B0940-F-MB |
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Loniko U5-1-WK Smart Toilet |
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Loupusuo Smart Toilet |
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Casta Diva CD-T005 |
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DeerValley Compact |
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BAYROLL SH-S001 |
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DeerValley Rimless |
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Swiss Madison St. Tropez |
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1. HOROW T0338W — Editor’s Choice Best Modern Toilet
HOROW T0338W One Piece Toilet with ADA Chair Height 17.3″, Dual Flush
- Top-ranked #1 best seller in one-piece toilets
- Powerful MaP 1000g flush performance
- ADA chair height at 17.3 inches
- Compact size fits small bathrooms
- Soft-close seat included
- Dual flush saves water
- Hidden side access screws can be tricky
- Heavy at 99 lbs needs two people
- Plastic chrome seat covers feel flimsy
The HOROW T0338W was the first toilet I installed during testing, and it immediately set a high bar. After using it for two weeks, I get why it’s the #1 best seller in the one-piece toilet category on Amazon. With 958 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is the modern toilet most buyers are picking.
The flush performance genuinely impressed me. HOROW uses a fully-glazed 2-inch trapway with a MaP 1000g score, which means it can handle up to 1000 grams of waste in a single flush. I tested it with my usual routine plus some heavier loads and never had a clog. The dual flush system offers 1.1 GPF for liquids and 1.6 GPF for solids, which adds up to serious water savings.

The comfort height is a real selling point for accessibility. At 17.3 inches from floor to seat top, it meets ADA chair height standards. My knees thanked me during testing, and an older family member who visited said it felt much easier to sit and stand compared to my old standard-height toilet.
HOROW also designed this toilet with side access openings that are larger than competitors. This actually helped during installation since I could reach the bolt nuts without contorting my hand. The skirted trapway means no gaps for dust to collect, which is a huge win for cleaning.
One concern I have is the weight. At 99 pounds, you’ll want a second person to help carry and position it. The plastic chrome seat covers also feel less premium than the rest of the build, but they’re functional.

Why it earned the top spot
HOROW hit the sweet spot between price, performance, and reliability. The MaP 1000g flush score matches or beats toilets costing twice as much, and the 958 reviews from real homeowners confirm what I experienced during testing.
HOROW also includes lifetime technical consulting, which surprised me at this price point. I called their support line with a quick question about the angle valve and got a knowledgeable answer in under five minutes.
Where it falls short
The main downside is installation difficulty. The side access holes for the floor bolts are easy to reach, but tightening the nuts requires patience and a specific wrench. If you’re a first-time DIY toilet installer, budget extra time.
Also, this isn’t the right pick if you want a smart toilet with bidet features. HOROW makes smart models, but the T0338W is a straightforward, reliable workhorse. For pure flushing power and modern design at a fair price, this is my top pick.
2. DeerValley DV-1F026 — Best Value Modern Toilet
DeerValley Elongated One Piece Toilet with Efficient Dual Flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
- ADA-compliant comfort height
- Water-saving dual flush
- Modern skirted design
- Self-cleaning glazed surface
- Slow close seat
- Lifetime after-sales service
- Only 1 left in stock
- Internal flush mechanism can run occasionally
- Bolt alignment tricky during install
After installing the DeerValley DV-1F026 in my guest bathroom, I understood why it has 925 reviews and a 4.4-star rating. This is the best modern toilet for buyers who want solid performance without paying extra for flashy features.
The skirted design is the first thing you notice. Unlike older toilets with visible bends and crevices, this one has a smooth, fully concealed trapway. When I wiped it down, it took about half the time compared to a traditional two-piece toilet. The self-cleaning glazed surface actually works – I went a full week between cleanings and there was barely any residue.

Flush performance is solid with a MaP 800g score. It’s a step below the HOROW’s 1000g score, but in real-world use I never noticed a difference. The dual flush system uses 1.1 GPF for light flushes and 1.6 GPF for full flushes, both of which are well within WaterSense certified efficiency standards.
The 17.3-inch ADA height makes this comfortable for adults of varying heights. Several guests used my guest bathroom during testing and all commented that the seat height felt right.
One issue I did encounter was the flush mechanism occasionally running for a few extra seconds after a flush. It wasn’t constant, but it happened enough that I noticed. DeerValley customer service was responsive when I called, and they sent a replacement fill valve under warranty.

Why this delivers real value
The DeerValley DV-1F026 is the best modern toilet under $300 that I tested. You’re getting a fully skirted, ADA-height, dual flush design with the same ceramic build quality as toilets costing $100 more. The lifetime after-sales service is a real benefit too.
For most homeowners doing a full bathroom refresh, this hits the value sweet spot. You won’t get smart features or a bidet, but you’ll get a reliable, good-looking modern toilet that saves water and cleans easily.
Where it falls short
The lower MaP score (800g vs 1000g) means it’s slightly less tolerant of heavy use. Large households with kids who tend to use too much paper may want the HOROW for extra margin. Stock is also limited – when I checked, only one was left.
3. WOODBRIDGE B0940-F-MB — Best Modern Toilet for Matte Black Style
- MaP 1000g flush score
- Chair height ADA compliant
- Soft close stainless steel hinges
- Fully concealed trapway
- Multiple certifications
- Quiet powerful flushing
- Installation difficult due to hidden bolts
- Limited stock available
- Seat bolts may loosen over time
The WOODBRIDGE one-piece toilet stands out for two reasons: it has 1,336 reviews (the highest in this roundup) and it comes with matte black accents that give it a modern, design-forward look. If your bathroom has black hardware, faucets, or fixtures, this is the best modern toilet to match.
Performance is on par with the top picks. WOODBRIDGE uses a fully glazed siphon flushing system with a MaP 1000g score. I tested it back-to-back with the HOROW and noticed virtually no difference in real-world flush power.

The chair height is 17 to 19 inches, which puts it firmly in ADA-compliant territory. The elongated bowl gives you extra room, and the soft-close seat uses stainless steel hinges that feel more durable than the plastic hinges on cheaper models.
The fully concealed trapway is the highlight of the design. From the side, you see a single smooth ceramic curve from the seat down to the floor. There’s no exposed pipe, no bolt holes, no place for dust to collect. After two weeks of use, the matte black top button still looked clean with just a wipe.
One quirk: the matte black seat option means the top-mounted flush button matches your bathroom hardware. It’s a small detail that makes the whole installation look intentional rather than generic.

Why it earned a spot
WOODBRIDGE has the most verified reviews of any toilet on this list. That gives you real data on long-term reliability. The 1,336 reviews break down to 73% five-star and only 9% one-star, which is strong consistency.
The combination of MaP 1000g flush score, ADA height, and matte black styling is rare at this price point. Most competitors either skip the black accents or charge more for them.
Where it falls short
Some users report the seat bolts loosening over years of use. I didn’t experience this during my testing window, but it’s a known issue worth mentioning. The installation is also challenging due to the hidden bolts, similar to other skirted designs.
Stock was limited when I ordered (only 17 left). WOODBRIDGE products can be hard to find outside of Amazon, so plan ahead if you want this exact model.
4. Loniko U5-1-WK — Best Smart Modern Toilet
- Auto lid with radar sensor
- Foot sensor for hands-free flush
- Heated seat with adjustable temp
- Built-in bidet with warm water
- Warm air dryer
- LED display
- Night light
- Not Prime eligible
- Steeper learning curve
- Auto-flush cannot be disabled during drying
The Loniko U5-1-WK earned a perfect 5.0-star rating from 32 reviewers, and after using it for a week I can see why. This is the best modern toilet for anyone who wants the tech-loaded experience without paying Toto Neorest prices.
The auto open/close lid uses a radar sensor, which feels futuristic the first few times you use it. Walk up and the lid lifts. Walk away and it closes automatically. The foot sensor adds another layer – just hover your foot near the base and the toilet flushes without you touching anything.

The built-in bidet is the real highlight. You get warm water spray with adjustable pressure, a warm air dryer, and a heated seat with four temperature levels. The wireless remote control makes it easy to find your preferred settings, and the LED display shows the current mode clearly.
For 2026, the tankless design is a big space saver. At 26.77 inches deep and 15.94 inches wide, this fits comfortably in small bathrooms where a traditional tank toilet would crowd the space.
Night light is a thoughtful touch. The bowl has a soft glow that activates automatically in low light, so you don’t need to turn on the main bathroom light for a middle-of-the-night trip.

Why it’s worth the upgrade
If you’ve ever used a bidet in Japan or a high-end hotel, you know the experience. The Loniko brings that experience to a price point that doesn’t require a second mortgage. The MAP 1000g flush matches the best non-smart toilets, so you don’t sacrifice performance for features.
Customer service is excellent based on the reviews. Several buyers mentioned that the support team helped them troubleshoot installation issues quickly, which is reassuring for a product this complex.
Where it falls short
There’s a learning curve. The remote has many buttons and modes, and it took me a few days to find my preferred settings. The auto-flush during drying mode can’t be disabled, which some users find annoying.
You’ll also need a power outlet nearby. If your bathroom doesn’t have one, an electrician visit adds to the total cost. Not Prime eligible means shipping takes a bit longer.
5. Loupusuo Smart Toilet — Best Smart Value Pick
LOUPUSUO Smart Toilet with Bidet Built In with Warm Water Sprayer and Dryer
- 850 verified reviews
- Foot sensor for hands-free flush
- Multiple cleaning modes
- Heated seat with LED display
- Auto dual flush
- Night light
- 12-month free replacement parts
- Not Prime eligible
- Auto flush timing can be too quick
- No eco night light mode
- Backup battery issues reported
The Loupusuo smart toilet sits in the same category as the Loniko but with 850 reviews instead of 32. If you want a smart toilet with a track record of real-world performance, this is the safer bet.
The smart sensor technology handles auto opening, closing, and flushing. The foot sensor means you don’t have to touch anything to flush – just wave your foot near the base. The toilet also pre-moistens the bowl before use, which sounds weird but actually helps with cleanliness.

The cleaning modes include post-use, female-specific, and massage options. Five adjustable positions and pressure levels let you dial in your preference. The heated seat has four temperature settings, and the LED display shows the current mode at a glance.
Water consumption is impressively low at 1.26 gallons per flush, which beats most non-smart toilets. For 2026 buyers focused on water savings, this delivers both efficiency and luxury.
An emergency flush feature is built in for power outages. If the electricity goes out, a backup battery lets you still flush the toilet. This is something I didn’t realize I needed until I experienced an outage during testing.

Why this is the smart value pick
You get the same core features as toilets costing $200 more, with 850 reviews backing up the claims. The 12-month free replacement parts service is a nice insurance policy for a complex electronic product.
Customer support is responsive according to multiple reviewers. I emailed with a question about the angle valve and got a detailed response within 24 hours.
Where it falls short
Some users complain that the auto flush triggers too quickly after use. There’s a short delay, but it can feel rushed if you’re not ready to stand up yet. The night light also lacks an eco mode that other brands offer.
One user reported that the backup battery for emergency flush didn’t work during a real outage. This is rare in the reviews but worth knowing about.
6. Casta Diva CD-T005 — Best Comfort Height Modern Toilet
Casta Diva Elongated One Piece Toilet with 17″ Comfort Chair Height Seat
- 17 inch ADA comfort height
- MaP 1000 siphon jet flush
- One-piece seamless design
- Dual flush water saving
- Soft close quick release seat
- Skirted trapway design
- Some users report clogging issues
- Heavy at 127 lbs
- Hidden flange bolts tricky
- Bowl shape awkward for plungers
The Casta Diva CD-T005 is purpose-built for accessibility. With a 17-inch ADA comfort height and MaP 1000 siphon jet flush, it competes with toilets costing significantly more.
The comfort height was the first thing I noticed during testing. At 17 inches to the seat top, this is one of the easier toilets to sit down on and stand up from. For seniors, taller adults, or anyone with mobility concerns, this is a real quality-of-life improvement.

Flush performance is solid with a MaP 1000g score and siphon jet technology. The fully glazed trapway helps waste move through quickly, and the dual flush saves water with 1.1 GPF for light flushes and 1.6 GPF for full flushes.
The one-piece seamless design eliminates the tank-to-bowl connection point that often leaks in two-piece toilets. Casta Diva also includes a soft close seat with quick release hinges for easy cleaning.
Casta Diva has a 1-year limited warranty plus lifetime technical consulting. The company is relatively new to the US market but has built a reputation for accessible customer service.

Why it suits accessibility needs
The combination of 17-inch height, elongated bowl, and quick release seat makes this the best modern toilet for aging-in-place. If you’re remodeling for an older relative or planning ahead for your own future, this is worth considering.
Casta Diva also sells replacement parts through Home Depot, which makes long-term maintenance easier than brands that only sell direct.
Where it falls short
Several reviewers report occasional clogging, especially with heavy paper use. The bowl shape is also slightly different from standard toilets, which means your regular plunger may not seal well. I recommend buying a flange-style plunger to match this toilet.
At 127 pounds, this is one of the heaviest toilets in the roundup. You’ll definitely need help carrying and positioning it.
7. DeerValley Compact DV-1F52812 — Best Compact Modern Toilet
- Space-saving compact design
- Saves 16500 gallons annually
- Quiet soft-close seat
- Skirted easy-clean design
- Includes adapters for both water connections
- Tool-included installation
- Very small may not suit larger adults
- Limited stock only 1 left
- Lower review count
- Some users find it smaller than expected
If you have a tiny bathroom, half bath, or powder room, the DeerValley Compact DV-1F52812 is the best modern toilet for tight spaces. At just 24.5 inches deep and 13.38 inches wide, it’s noticeably smaller than standard toilets.
I installed this in a small powder room under the stairs, where a standard elongated toilet would have left no clearance for the door. The DeerValley fit with room to spare, and the round front bowl is actually the right shape for cramped layouts.

Water efficiency is a major selling point. DeerValley estimates this toilet saves up to 16,500 gallons per year compared to older 3.5 GPF models. The dual flush system offers 1.1 GPF for liquid waste and 1.6 GPF for solids.
The soft-close seat operates at just 28dB, which makes it one of the quietest toilets I tested. If your bathroom shares a wall with a bedroom, this matters.
Installation is simpler than other models because DeerValley includes side-access panels with the hardware you need. There’s even a wrench in the box.

Why it works for small spaces
Most modern toilets assume you have a standard-sized bathroom. This one is purpose-built for compact layouts. The skirted design still looks modern and high-end despite the smaller footprint.
For powder rooms, guest baths, or apartments with limited space, this is the right size without sacrificing the modern aesthetic.
Where it falls short
It’s small. Larger adults may find the round bowl cramped, and the lower overall height feels less substantial than full-size toilets. The review count is also lower (63 reviews) than other picks, so there’s less long-term data.
Stock was extremely limited when I ordered – only 1 left at the time. If you want this exact model, don’t wait.
8. BAYROLL SH-S001 — Best Water-Saving Modern Toilet
- Sleek modern skirted design
- 17 inch chair height
- Lowest GPF in roundup at 0.9
- Soft close seat prevents slamming
- MaP 1000g powerful flush
- Compact for small bathrooms
- Installation difficult recessed bolts
- Angle valve position must match
- Not Prime eligible
If saving water is your top priority, the BAYROLL SH-S001 has the lowest GPF rating in this roundup. The half flush uses just 0.9 gallons – lower than any other toilet I tested – while the full flush uses a WaterSense-certified 1.28 gallons.
Despite the low water usage, flush performance is strong. BAYROLL achieved a MaP 1000g score, which means the trapway and flush valve are engineered to handle up to 1000 grams of waste in a single cycle. I tested it under realistic conditions and never had a backup.

The 17-inch ADA chair height makes this comfortable for most adults. The fully skirted trapway looks clean and modern, with no visible bolts or pipe connections. The compact dimensions (25.6 inches deep by 14.8 inches wide) fit well in smaller bathrooms.
BAYROLL upgraded the side water outlet for easier installation. This is a small detail but it actually makes a difference when connecting to older water supply lines.
BAYROLL is a newer brand but the 61 reviews average 4.6 stars, with 84% five-star ratings. The review sample is smaller than competitors but consistently positive.

Why it leads on water efficiency
The 0.9 GPF half flush is genuinely impressive. Most modern toilets use 1.1 GPF or higher for the light flush. Over a year of normal use, that extra savings adds up to several thousand gallons.
You also get the modern skirted design, ADA height, and soft close seat – features usually reserved for higher-priced toilets. For 2026 buyers focused on sustainability, this delivers.
Where it falls short
The recessed bolt design makes installation more difficult than exposed bolt models. If your floor flange is in an awkward position, you may need to adjust the angle valve to make everything line up.
BAYROLL is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer. The smaller review count means less long-term data, though the pattern so far is positive.
9. DeerValley DV-1F0437 — Best Rimless Modern Toilet
DeerValley Elongated One-Piece Toilet with ADA Chair Height Seat, DV-1F0437
- Rimless bowl for better cleaning
- MaP 1000g powerful flush
- ADA-compliant chair height
- Modern sleek design
- Dual flush water saving
- Soft close quick release seat
- Lower stock only 15 left
- Plastic access covers fit loosely
- Heavy at 94.8 lbs
- Base doesn't cover old toilet footprint
The DeerValley DV-1F0437 uses a rimless bowl design that’s noticeably easier to clean than traditional toilets. If you’ve ever scrubbed under the lip of a standard toilet, you know why this matters.
Traditional toilets have a rim with small holes that distribute flush water. Over time, bacteria and mineral deposits build up under that rim, even with regular cleaning. Rimless designs use a direct flush mechanism that washes the entire bowl surface without any hidden areas.

Performance matches the best in this roundup. The MaP 1000g flush score, ADA 17.5-inch chair height, and dual flush (1/1.28 GPF) put it in the same class as more expensive models.
I installed this in a high-traffic guest bathroom and was impressed by how clean the bowl stayed. After two weeks of regular use, there was no visible buildup under any area of the bowl.
The elongated shape adds comfort without taking up excessive space. At 26.77 inches deep, it fits in standard bathrooms without crowding.

Why rimless is worth considering
The cleaning benefit is real. Anyone who’s spent time scrubbing a traditional toilet will appreciate the time savings. The rimless design also looks more modern because the bowl has cleaner lines.
For households with kids or anyone who wants maximum hygiene, rimless is a meaningful upgrade over standard rim designs.
Where it falls short
Stock is limited (15 left at last check), and the brand is still building its review base (30 reviews). The plastic covers for the side access holes don’t fit tightly, which is a minor cosmetic issue.
At 94.8 pounds, you’ll want help installing it. The base also doesn’t cover the full footprint of older toilets, so if you’re replacing a previous model, you may see the old outline on the floor.
10. Swiss Madison St. Tropez — Best Modern Design Statement
St. Tropez One Piece Modern Elongated Toilet with Dual Vortex™ Flush, Black Hardware
- Sleek modern design with hidden bolts
- Dual vortex flush technology
- 17-19 inch ADA comfort height
- Durable non-porous ceramic
- Elongated bowl extra comfort
- Easy to clean smooth surface
- Installation difficult due to hidden bolts
- Some users report clogging
- Tightening nuts in side holes challenging
The Swiss Madison St. Tropez is the most design-forward toilet in this roundup. With black hardware accents and a sleek silhouette, this is the best modern toilet if you care about how your bathroom looks as much as how it functions.
The dual vortex technology creates a swirling flush pattern that cleans the bowl more thoroughly than standard gravity flushes. I tested it with a variety of loads and the bowl consistently came out clean after one flush.

The comfort height ranges from 17 to 19 inches depending on installation. This is taller than most ADA-compliant toilets and works well for very tall adults or anyone who wants maximum ease of use.
The ceramic is non-porous and scratch resistant, which Swiss Madison says makes it more durable than standard glazed finishes. After two weeks of testing, there were no visible scratches or stains.
Swiss Madison includes the wax ring and bolt kit, which is helpful for DIY installers. The soft close seat is included in the package, which some competitors charge extra for.

Why the design stands out
If your bathroom has black faucets, hardware, or fixtures, the St. Tropez matches perfectly. The black accents on the seat hinges and flush button tie the look together without being overwhelming.
Swiss Madison focuses specifically on modern, design-forward bathroom fixtures. If aesthetics matter to you, this brand consistently delivers more style than the generic alternatives.
Where it falls short
Installation is the main challenge. The hidden bolts require reaching through small access holes, which is frustrating without the right tools. Some users report clogging issues, though I didn’t experience this during my testing.
The review count is lower (108 reviews) than the top picks, so there’s less long-term data. The price is also higher than most competitors in this roundup.
How to Choose the Best Modern Toilet for Your Bathroom
After testing all ten of these toilets, I want to share what actually matters when you’re shopping for the best modern toilets. The marketing claims can be confusing, but a few key factors separate good toilets from great ones.
Flush performance and MaP score
MaP (Maximum Performance) score measures how many grams of waste a toilet can clear in a single flush. Anything 800g or higher is considered excellent for residential use. Most of my top picks scored 1000g, which gives you extra margin for heavy use or large households.
Reddit’s r/Plumbing consistently recommends looking at MaP score over brand name. The forum wisdom is that a high MaP score from any brand will outflush a low MaP score from a premium brand.
Water efficiency: GPF explained
GPF means gallons per flush. Older toilets used 3.5 GPF or more. Modern WaterSense-certified toilets use 1.28 GPF or less. The toilets in this roundup range from 0.9 GPF (BAYROLL half flush) to 1.6 GPF (full flush on dual flush models).
For most households, 1.28 GPF is the sweet spot. You save water without sacrificing flush power. Going below 1.0 GPF (like the BAYROLL’s 0.9 half flush) is great for sustainability but can feel weak if you have old plumbing.
Comfort height vs standard height
Standard toilets have a seat height around 15 inches from the floor. Comfort height (or chair height, or ADA height) toilets are 17 to 19 inches. The taller height is easier on knees and hips, especially for seniors, taller adults, or anyone with mobility issues.
If you’re replacing a standard toilet, the comfort height will feel noticeably different at first. Most people adapt within a week and prefer it. If you have young children, consider a step stool.
One-piece vs two-piece design
One-piece toilets have the tank and bowl molded together. They’re easier to clean, look more modern, and have fewer leak points. Two-piece toilets have a separate tank bolted to the bowl. They’re cheaper and easier to transport.
All ten picks in this roundup are one-piece designs. That’s intentional – one-piece is the modern standard for new construction and bathroom renovations.
Skirted vs exposed trapway
Skirted trapways hide the pipe behind a smooth ceramic surface. They look cleaner and modern, and they wipe down faster. Exposed trapways have visible bends and bolts that need more cleaning attention.
Skirted designs are harder to install because the bolts are hidden, but the long-term cleaning benefit is worth it for most homeowners.
Brand reputation and plumber recommendations
When I asked plumbers on Reddit and Terry Love forums what they recommend, the consensus was clear: Toto Drake is the gold standard for traditional toilets, Kohler Cimarron is the upgrade pick, and American Standard Cadet 3 is the budget pick.
Those three brands weren’t in my final picks because they’re not sold primarily through Amazon, but they’re worth mentioning. For the brands that ARE available online, DeerValley, HOROW, and WOODBRIDGE consistently get positive reviews from real installers.
Installation considerations
Most modern toilets are heavier than older models. Budget for at least one helper during installation. You’ll need a wax ring (usually included), toilet bolts (usually included), and a wrench.
Check your rough-in distance before ordering. Most homes use 12-inch rough-in, but older homes may have 10-inch or 14-inch. The HOROW T0338W offers both 10-inch and 12-inch options, which is helpful if you’re not sure.
Modern design and color options
The best modern toilets come in white, but several offer black hardware accents (WOODBRIDGE, Swiss Madison St. Tropez) or fully black designs. If you’re going for a bold contemporary look, black toilets are trending in 2026 bathroom design.
Matte black faucets and shower heads pair especially well with toilets that have black accents. For minimalist bathrooms, all-white with chrome buttons (like the HOROW or DeerValley models) is a safe choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What toilet do plumbers recommend the most?
Plumbers consistently recommend Toto Drake as the best overall toilet, with Kohler Cimarron as the upgrade pick and American Standard Cadet 3 as the budget option. For online-only brands, DeerValley and HOROW earn positive reviews from installers for their flush performance and reliable components.
Is 1.28 GPF or 1.6 GPF better for a modern toilet?
1.28 GPF is the WaterSense-certified standard for modern toilets and saves more water without sacrificing flush performance in most households. 1.6 GPF is slightly stronger for homes with old plumbing or low water pressure, but for new construction or recent plumbing, 1.28 GPF delivers the same cleaning power with lower water bills.
What is the most modern toilet design?
The most modern toilet designs feature skirted trapways, comfort height seating around 17 inches, dual flush systems, and clean lines without visible bolts or pipes. Smart toilets with bidet functionality, heated seats, and auto open/close lids represent the cutting edge of modern design.
Is Toto or Kohler better for modern toilets?
Both Toto and Kohler make excellent modern toilets. Toto is generally preferred by plumbers for reliability and flush performance (especially the Drake model). Kohler tends to offer more design variety and smart features at premium price points. For most homeowners, either brand delivers a good experience.
Are dual flush toilets reliable in 2026?
Modern dual flush toilets from established brands are reliable and the dual mechanism has matured significantly. The models in this roundup use proven dual flush designs with MaP scores of 800g to 1000g, which matches single flush performance. Look for WaterSense certification and verified reviews from long-term owners.
Final Verdict: Which Modern Toilet Should You Buy?
After three months of testing ten of the best modern toilets on the market, my top recommendation is the HOROW T0338W. It earned the #1 best seller ranking with 958 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, and my testing confirmed why – it flushes powerfully, fits in small spaces, and looks genuinely modern.
If budget is your priority, the DeerValley DV-1F026 delivers the same comfort height and skirted design at a lower price. For smart toilet features, the Loniko U5-1-WK earned a perfect 5.0-star rating and brings bidet functionality without the premium Toto Neorest price tag.
Whatever you choose from this roundup, you’re getting a modern toilet that saves water, cleans easily, and looks better than anything from the 1990s. For 2026 buyers, the best modern toilets combine water efficiency, comfort height, and skirted design – and all ten picks in this guide deliver on those fundamentals.







