American standard Bathroom Toilet

 

Picking the right toilet might not seem like a big deal until you’re stuck with a bad one. American Standard and Kohler have dominated bathroom fixtures for generations, each with their own strengths. If you need to choose between them for your 2025 bathroom project, our team at Allied Plumbing & Heating Supply in Chicago has prepared a real-world comparison of the best toilets to help you decide.

Why This Comparison Matters

American Standard has outfitted American bathrooms for over 140 years, while Kohler started in 1873 when Austrian immigrant John Michael Kohler entered the plumbing business. Other major manufacturers include Toto, Signature Hardware, and Villeroy & Boch. The bathroom remodeling market hit $398.1 billion last year and is expected to reach $574.1 billion by 2034, with customers looking for water-saving options and smart functionality.

What Sets These Brands Apart

American Standard is known for dependability and practicality, and Kohler’s reputation is built on luxurious designs and premium materials, which may appeal to you if you want your bathroom to make a statement.

Key Buying Criteria for 2025

Water efficiency likely tops your list of most-wanted features — look for the WaterSense label, which means the toilet meets EPA standards using just 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) instead of the standard 1.6 gallons. These fixtures can cut your toilet’s water usage in half compared to older models.

Flushing power matters, too. Maximum Performance (MaP) testing tells you exactly how much waste a toilet can handle in one flush. A score of 350 grams passes the test, but top performers reach 1,000 grams. Look for MaP PREMIUM ratings, which mean the toilet flushes 600 or more grams using less than 1.1 gallons of water.

Bowl shape is also important — elongated bowls extend about 2 inches further than round ones, giving adults more comfort, while round bowls save space in small bathrooms.

As you age, toilet height becomes a factor. Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant comfort height toilets sit 17–19 inches high (vs. standard 15-inch models), making sitting down and standing up much easier if you have mobility issues. The 2025 market also favors eco-friendly materials and smart technology integration that includes everything from heated seats to voice controls.

American Standard Toilets: Strengths and Limitations

American Standard builds toilets that are affordable, dependable, and easy to install. As a nice bonus, they often include the toilet seat — many of its competitors sell seats separately. Most models fit existing setups with minimal fuss, and if you’re into DIY, you’ll love the common parts that swap out easily without special tools or professional assistance.

Top Models for 2025 and Flushing Performance

The VorMax 238AA104 leads American Standard’s 2025 lineup with its 1.28-gallon swirling flush, comfort height, and ADA compliance at a lower cost than competitors. American Standard’s Champion and Cadet lines offer powerful jet flushing for various needs and budgets. Its gravity-fed Class Five flush system stays surprisingly quiet while avoiding splash-back.

Design Range, Pricing, and Build Quality

American Standard toilet prices range from $180–$800 with practical, timeless designs, perfect for anyone who prioritizes function over flashy looks. The toilets’ build quality is excellent — durable glazed ceramic and reliable mechanics mean less future hassle. Replacement parts are widely available with standard hardware.

Kohler Toilets: Advantages and Drawbacks

Kohler toilets radiate luxury with sleek designs and powerful performance, and you may find it hard to switch to another brand after you experience Kohler’s flush quality. Keep in mind that many models ship without seats, and installation is less straightforward than with American Standard.

Leading Models and Design Philosophy

The Cimarron K-31621-0 leads the 2025 lineup with its strong flush and solid reliability, although it lacks washlet compatibility. The Corbelle series features ContinuousClean technology that keeps bowls clean five times longer. The high-end Innate Smart Toilet offers a built-in bidet and precise water controls. Kohler creates modern pieces that look like bathroom sculptures.

Comfort Features, Smart Tech, and Premium Materials

Kohler dominates the smart toilet segment with features such as night lights, bidets, automatic flush, and app controls. The Innate boasts customizable water pressure and temperature. Kohler also offers heated seats, auto-opening lids, and AquaPiston flushing.

Head-To-Head Comparison: Performance and Value

Durability, Flushing Power, and Water Efficiency

Water-efficient toilets can save up to 13,000 gallons yearly. American Standard’s Class Five flush system works quietly, while Kohler’s G-Force pressure-assist mechanism packs more punch but runs noisier.

Most Kohler toilets use 1.28 GPF with dual-flush options. American Standard offers 1.28 GPF, 1.6 GPF, and ultra-low-flow models. Both brands earn WaterSense certifications for efficient usage.

Comfort, Ergonomics, and Maintenance Needs

Both brands offer standard and comfort heights with a choice of round or elongated bowls. Kohler adds luxurious touches, while American Standard focuses on proper sizing and reliability. Kohler’s skirted designs are easier to clean. American Standard counters with its EverClean surface treatment that fights mold and stains.

Pricing and Technology

Pricing is where these two companies diverge the most. Kohler’s smart models sell for $5,000 or more, while American Standard tops out at around $800.

Entry-Level, Midrange, and Premium Pricing

Avoid inexpensive toilets under $200 made with low-quality materials. Midrange ($300–$600) models favor American Standard’s solid performance without premium pricing. Kohler’s midrange offerings add style at a similar price point.

High-end Kohler toilets cost thousands more than American Standard, but they include the latest comfort and technology features.

Choose the Right Toilet for Your 2025 Bathroom Upgrade

To pick the right toilet, go with American Standard if you want reliability on a budget. Pick Kohler if your bathroom deserves the royal treatment. These toilets shine in upscale renovations, master bathrooms, and anywhere appearance matters as much as function. The premium design, smart features, and luxury feel make them worth it for many homeowners.

Both brands build quality products — your priorities and budget should drive your final decision. Contact our knowledgeable team at Allied Plumbing & Heating Supply with any questions you may have about your bathroom renovation.