Rounded Toilet vs. Elongated Toilet: Which Is Best For You?

Shopping for a toilet seems like an easy enough task. They all do basically the same thing, and it’s not like there’s a ton of variety out there. Right?

Wrong.

Today’s toilets offer more choice than ever, from comfort heights to sleek tankless versions. “Design trends evolve over time, and bathroom fixtures are no exception,” says Leah Tuttleman, an interior designer at Re-Bath bathroom remodeling.

And then there’s bowl size. Do you choose an elongated toilet or a round one? Even if you’re sticking with a basic white commode, answer this key question before walking out of the store or hitting that online checkout button. Each has its own benefits, depending on your needs and wants.

Tuttleman explains below why the shape of your toilet matters.

Advantages of a Round Toilet

This is your classic toilet, commonly found in older homes and small powder rooms. “Round bowls are generally smaller in size, making them a good choice if space is limited,” Tuttleman says. Think: kids bathrooms, apartments and half-baths.

Another perk is the price. “Generally speaking, round bowls are less expensive,” Tuttleman says.

Round bowls come in standard height (about 15 to 16 inches) and ADA-compliant comfort height (17 to 19 inches). “It’s a good idea to test different heights to determine which is best for you,” Tuttleman says. Even with a smaller profile, round bowl toilets come in standard rough-in sizes (i.e. the distance from the wall to the floor drain). While you’re at it, get to know the difference between chair height and standard height toilet.

It’s all a matter of preference, Tuttleman says. Round bowls have been around a long time, offering a classic and compact look.

Dimensions of a round toilet

Round toilet bowls measure about 16-1/2-in. from the middle of the mounting bolts to the front of the rim. If your toilet fits this description, buy a round toilet seat.

Advantages of an Elongated Toilet

If you’re thinking about an elongated toilet bowl, you’re in good company. “By far, the most popular choice for bowl shape today is the elongated shape,” Tuttleman says.

Most people find them more comfortable, due to their natural, body-shaping fit. For this reason they’re often preferred by taller, larger or limited-mobility users.

Elongated-bowl toilets come in more styles and colors, with more options, than round bowls. Not only that, elongated bowls “are considered more modern, and add a sleek look to the bathroom,” Tuttleman says. They’re available in standard rough-in sizes and multiple heights, just like round.

Because elongated toilets are two inches deeper than round ones, it’s important to consider the footprint and overall size of your space. “Make sure you’ve got the measurements right, so that whatever you choose fits well in your bathroom.” You don’t want the door hitting the front of the toilet.

Dimensions of an elongated toilet

Elongated bowls measure about 18-1/2-in. from the middle of the mounting bolts to the front of the rim. If your toilet fits this description, buy an elongated toilet seat.

Choosing the Ideal Toilet Shape

So, which toilet seat shape is for you?

Tuttleman says this decision often comes down to personal preference, but here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing between a round and elongated bowl.

• Space: Round toilets take up less space than elongated ones.
• Comfort: Elongated bowls are longer and give you more room up front.
• Variety: Because elongated bowls are more popular, they come in more colors and styles.
• Price: Round bowls are generally cheaper than elongated versions.
• Style: Elongated bowls offer modern styling, but some people like a classic look.

What About Bidets?

Bidets are having a moment, but not everyone can rip up their bathroom to install a standalone model. Luckily, you don’t have to. “Both round and elongated bowl shapes are typically compatible with bidet attachments,” Tuttleman says.

Typically, these attachments are easy to install. But before you buy, check compatibility with your toilet manufacturer to make sure it’ll fit. Next, find out what is a vault toilet and how it functions.

About the Expert

• Leah Tuttleman is an interior designer at Re-Bath bathroom remodelers. A member of the American Society of Interior Designers, Tuttleman has more than 25 years of experience in residential and commercial design, including direction, project management and fabrication.