Toilet Showdown: American Standard Reliant vs. Kohler Highline Arc vs. Glacier Bay Dual & Single Flush
Choosing a new toilet might not be the most glamorous home renovation task, but it's certainly a critical one. A well-performing, comfortable, and efficient toilet can make a surprisingly big difference in your daily life. Today, we're putting four popular models head-to-head to help you make an informed decision. We'll be looking at the American Standard Reliant, the Kohler Highline Arc, and two contenders from Glacier Bay – a dual-flush and a single-flush model. All are 12-inch rough-in, two-piece designs with included seats, representing common choices for homeowners looking to upgrade.
Quick Specifications at a Glance
Here's a breakdown of the key specifications for each toilet:
| Feature | American Standard Reliant | Kohler Highline Arc | Glacier Bay Dual Flush | Glacier Bay Single Flush | | ------------------ | ------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ------------------------------ | ---------------------------- | | Type | 2-Piece, Round | 2-Piece, Elongated, Chair Height | 2-Piece, Elongated, Dual Flush | 2-Piece, Round, Single Flush | | Flush Type | Single Flush | Single Flush | Dual Flush | Single Flush | | GPF | 1.28 | 1.28 | 1.1 / 1.6 | 1.28 | | Seat | Slow Close | Soft Close | Included | Included | | Price | $149.00 | $199.00 | $109.00 | $99.00 | | Average Rating | 4.39/5 (674 reviews) | 4.46/5 (13,565 reviews) | 4.37/5 (7,548 reviews) | 4.37/5 (8,805 reviews) |
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
Comfort and Design
The Kohler Highline Arc immediately stands out with its elongated bowl and chair height design. This combination offers a more comfortable seating experience, especially for taller individuals or those who find standard height toilets a bit too low. The American Standard Reliant features a round bowl, which is typically more space-saving but can feel less accommodating. Both Glacier Bay models have elongated bowls, but neither specifies a chair height, suggesting they are closer to standard dimensions.
Flush Performance and Efficiency
All three brands offer models that meet or exceed EPA WaterSense standards. The American Standard Reliant, Kohler Highline Arc, and the Glacier Bay Single Flush all use 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF), a common and effective water-saving standard. The Glacier Bay Dual Flush model offers the flexibility of choosing between a 1.1 GPF flush for liquids and a 1.6 GPF flush for solids. While dual flush can offer greater water savings over time, the 1.28 GPF standard is generally sufficient for most waste removal needs. We generally prefer the consistent performance of a well-designed 1.28 GPF single flush for simplicity.
Seat Quality and Features
The inclusion of a slow-close or soft-close seat is a welcome amenity on the American Standard Reliant and Kohler Highline Arc, preventing the lid from slamming shut. This is a small but appreciated detail that adds to the overall user experience. The Glacier Bay models simply state "Seat Included," which often implies a basic plastic seat without these advanced features. For a premium feel, the soft-close mechanism on the Kohler Highline Arc is a definite plus.
Price and Value Analysis
When it comes to price, the Glacier Bay models are the undisputed budget champions. The Glacier Bay Single Flush comes in at a remarkable $99, making it the most affordable option by a significant margin. The Glacier Bay Dual Flush is just slightly higher at $109. The American Standard Reliant sits in the mid-range at $149, offering a step up in brand reputation and features like the slow-close seat. The Kohler Highline Arc is the most expensive at $199, but it justifies its price with its comfortable chair height and elongated design, along with the soft-close seat. Considering value, the Glacier Bay Single Flush offers the most basic functionality for the lowest price. However, the Kohler Highline Arc, despite its higher cost, provides a superior user experience in terms of comfort and features. The American Standard Reliant offers a good balance, but the Kohler's added comfort features might be worth the extra investment for many.
Best For Different Use Cases
* **Budget-Conscious Homeowners:** If your primary concern is getting a functional toilet at the lowest possible cost, the Glacier Bay 12 in. Rough In Two-Piece 1.28 GPF Single Flush Round Toilet is your clear winner. It's a no-frills option that gets the job done. * **Those Prioritizing Comfort:** For enhanced comfort, especially in bathrooms with limited space or for users who appreciate a more comfortable seating height, the Kohler Highline Arc 12 in. Rough In 2-Piece 1.28 GFP Single Flush Elongated Chair Height Toilet is the superior choice. Its elongated and chair-height design makes a noticeable difference. * **Water-Saving Enthusiasts (with a caveat):** The Glacier Bay 12 in. Rough In 2-Piece 1.1 GPF/1.6 GPF Dual Flush Elongated Toilet offers dual-flush technology. While it can save water, the effectiveness of its flush for solids might be less consistent than the 1.28 GPF models, especially when dealing with tougher waste.
Final Verdict
After evaluating these four popular toilet models, a clear winner emerges for overall performance and user experience: the Kohler Highline Arc. While it commands the highest price tag at $199, its combination of an elongated, chair-height bowl, a comfortable soft-close seat, and a proven 1.28 GPF flush system makes it the most compelling option for most households. The extensive positive reviews (over 13,000!) also speak volumes about its reliability and customer satisfaction. For those on a stricter budget, the Glacier Bay 12 in. Rough In Two-Piece 1.28 GPF Single Flush Round Toilet at $99 is a perfectly adequate alternative, though you'll sacrifice some comfort and premium features. The American Standard Reliant is a solid mid-range option, but it doesn't quite distinguish itself enough to sway us from the Kohler's superior comfort or the Glacier Bay's budget appeal.