Round vs. Elongated Toilets: Which One Is Right for You?
Discover which porcelain throne is meant for you.
When picking out a toilet, there are so many factors to consider. One important consideration is the bowl and seat shape. In this guide, we settle the round vs. elongated toilet debate so you can browse for a toilet with confidence. Keep reading to find out which one fulfills your requirements.
In this guide:
What Is a Round Toilet?
What Is an Elongated Toilet?
Considerations for Each Option: How to Make Your Decision
What Is a Round Toilet?
A round toilet has a short, circular-shaped bowl and toilet seat, which makes it a small space–friendly toilet design. These toilets are also easier for children to use because of their short, round seats. Round toilets are common in residential spaces and traditional homes because of their classic style.
An elongated toilet features an oval- or -pear-shaped toilet seat and bowl. This design makes it easier to flush and clean the toilet, while also making it more comfortable to sit down. The spacious shape of the seat also prevents contents from getting on and around the seat to keep the space clean and hygienic. This is what makes elongated toilets the go-to for commercial bathrooms and residential bathrooms alike. Learn more in our guide, What Is an Elongated Toilet?
In this section, we compare round vs. elongated toilets so you can determine which option works best for you.
Price Point
In terms of price, elongated toilets are usually more expensive compared to round toilets. This is because of the longer seats and larger bowls along with the more modern designs that add to their popularity.
Comfort Level
Now let's compare the comfort level of elongated toilet seats vs. round configurations. Typically, elongated toilets are considered more comfortable because the shape of the seat provides better support for your legs when you sit. Round toilets have a shorter seat that doesn't offer as much sitting room. This makes elongated seats preferable for adults or anyone who needs extra support when they sit. However, the compact shape of round toilets makes them more preferable for children to use comfortably.
Toilet Size
As for sizing, round toilets are shorter in length than elongated toilets. However, they usually have the same width. It's just the length that's different. The seat height and depth (length from the tip of the bowl to the wall) of both types may differ depending on the design configuration (one-piece or two-piece) and the manufacturer. Here are the standard measurements for round toilets vs. elongated options to give you a sense of their sizing:
Standard Round Toilet Dimensions: 16.5" L x 14" W
Standard Elongated Toilet Dimension: 18.5" L x 14" W
Tip!
Review Toilet Dimensions & Measurements to Know for more factors that determine toilet sizing.
Bathroom Size
The size of your bathroom is super important to consider when comparing round vs. elongated toilets. Round toilets are perfect for small-space bathrooms or powder rooms because they have a shorter seat and bowl that doesn't jut out as much as an elongated seat. However, elongated toilets can still work in small spaces if they have one-piece configurations with a tank and bowl in the same unit (more on this in the style section). We recommend using round toilets in small powder rooms and saving elongated toilets for spacious ensuite bathrooms.
Cleanliness
Generally, elongated toilets are easier to clean and maintain compared to round toilets because they're designed with space in mind. The length of the seat helps prevent messes from accumulating on or around the surface – limiting contact with your skin – while the spaciousness of the bowl makes it super easy to clean and to prevent instances of clogging.
Style
When comparing round vs. elongated toilet styles, it all comes down to your preferences. Round toilets are considered more classic and traditional, while elongated toilets are considered more up-to-date and modern. You might go with a round toilet to complement a traditional clawfoot tub and a modern toilet to go with a contemporary shower space. However, you can also create a cool clash of styles by choosing a toilet that doesn't reflect the style of your bathroom.
Both round and elongated toilets are available in one- or -two-piece configurations so you can decide which configuration meets your needs in terms of appearance and functionality. Review One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets: Which Is Right for You? to learn more.
Tip!
Now that you know the difference between a round and elongated toilet, check out our Toilet Buying Guide.
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