Every morning when you walk into your bathroom—or late at night when you return home tired—the toilet is one of the fixtures you use most frequently. Yet, when choosing a toilet during a renovation, many people focus only on appearance, brand, or price, while overlooking one crucial factor: comfort.
The wrong toilet size can make every visit feel like a chore. Taller users often find round toilets too cramped, while small bathrooms can feel even tighter when fitted with an elongated model. So, which one is right for your home?
Today, Giving Tree Home takes an in-depth look at elongated vs. round toilets to help you confidently choose the style that best fits your needs.
What Is an Elongated Toilet?
To determine whether a toilet is “elongated,” you don’t have to rely on guesswork. Just look at one measurement: the distance from the seat mounting holes to the very front edge of the toilet bowl.
According to industry standards, if this length is 18.5 inches (≈47 cm) or greater, the toilet is considered elongated.
Elongated toilets were designed to better match human body proportions—especially for taller individuals (typically 175 cm and above) or those with a larger build. They help prevent issues like unsupported legs, knee strain, or discomfort during extended use. Most elongated toilets on the market measure between 18.5 and 19.5 inches (≈47–49.5 cm), and some brands further refine the seat curvature for improved ergonomics.
What Is a Round Toilet?
Round toilets are defined using the same measurement: the distance from the mounting holes to the front rim.
When this length measures 16.5 inches (≈42 cm) or more, the toilet is categorized as a round model (often called a “standard” toilet).
Round toilets feature a soft circular shape and usually measure 16.5–17.5 inches (≈42–44.5 cm). Their compact size makes them ideal for most bathroom spaces, especially older homes, small apartments, and guest bathrooms with limited room.
Elongated vs. Round Toilets — Pros & Cons Breakdown
1. Elongated Toilets: Comfort First, Best for Larger Spaces
Pros
- Superior comfort:
Longer bowl length provides better thigh support. Ideal for taller adults (170 cm+), larger body frames, elderly users, or individuals who sit for long periods. Reduces leg and lower-back pressure.
- Better functionality:
Many elongated toilets use larger tanks or optimized flushing paths, offering stronger flush performance and reducing the likelihood of clogs. The larger seat area also feels more stable.
- Modern and upscale look:
The sleek, extended profile enhances modern or minimalist bathroom designs and elevates the overall aesthetic.
Cons
- Takes more space:
Typically 1–2 inches longer than round models. Works best when the distance from the back wall to the nearest obstruction is ≥70 cm. In small bathrooms, it may feel crowded.
- Higher cost:
Due to more materials and complex design, elongated toilets usually cost 10–30% more than comparable round models.
2. Round Toilets: Compact, Affordable, and Flexible
Pros
- Space-saving:
Their compact shape fits easily in small bathrooms, older homes, or narrow floor plans without affecting mobility.
- Budget-friendly:
Typically cheaper to produce, resulting in lower prices and excellent value for the budget-conscious.
- Easy to install:
Follows standard sizing for drain placement and tank connections. No modifications needed; any trained installer can complete the job quickly.
- Highly compatible:
Round seats match many universal toilet lids and bidet seats, offering more flexibility when replacing accessories.
Cons
- Limited comfort:
Shorter seat length may not support the legs adequately for users over 170 cm or with larger builds. Long sitting sessions may cause numbness or discomfort.
- Weaker flushing (on some models):
Smaller tanks used on compact round toilets may produce weaker flushing power. Heavy tissue use can increase the chance of clogging.
How to Choose? Decide Based on These Three Factors
Choosing a toilet isn’t about following trends or choosing the most expensive model—it’s about selecting the one that fits your household’s needs. Consider the following:
Who Will Use It?
- For tall adults (170+ cm), larger body types, the elderly, pregnant women, or anyone who sits for longer periods → Choose an elongated toilet.
- For children, shorter adults, or bathrooms used mostly by guests → A round toilet is a practical and sufficient choice.
How Much Bathroom Space Do You Have?
Measure two areas:
Distance from back wall to front obstacle
- ≥70 cm → elongated OK
- <70 cm → round recommended
Side clearance (wall/furniture to either side of toilet)
- ≥30 cm ideal
- If tight, choose round for better movement space
If your bathroom is ≥5 m² or has a modern layout, elongated models fit beautifully.
If it’s <4 m² or tightly arranged, choose round to avoid crowding.
What’s Your Budget and Priority?
- Budget ≥ $300 and you want comfort + premium appearance → Elongated
- Budget < $200 and you want affordability + easy future maintenance → Round
- If you already use a bidet seat, choose whichever size matches the existing seat
Ending
A toilet may seem small and ordinary, but it plays a big role in everyday comfort.
Elongated models offer elegance and comfort; round models provide compactness and savings. There is no absolute “better”—only what is best for you.
Instead of following trends blindly, consider:
- Your family’s height and body type
- Your bathroom’s available space
- Your budget and core priorities
The ideal toilet balances comfort with space efficiency. It shouldn’t leave your legs sore after sitting, nor should it make your bathroom feel cramped.
If you're choosing the best toilet for your family, Giving Tree Home is the perfect place to start. We offer a full range of toilet sizes—from 16.5 to 18.5 inches and beyond—along with 1–2 years of warranty for peace of mind.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: How to verify whether my toilet is elongated or round?
A: Simply measure the distance from the seat mounting holes to the front edge of the toilet bowl:
- Elongated: 18.5 inches (47 cm) or longer
- Round: Typically 16.5–17.5 inches (42–44.5 cm)
This quick measurement will immediately tell you which type you have.
Q2: Are elongated toilets more comfortable?
A: Generally, yes. Elongated toilets offer more thigh support and a larger seating surface.
- Taller users: People 175 cm and above experience a clearer comfort improvement.
- Extended sitting: Better support reduces leg numbness and lower-back strain.
For families with taller adults, elongated models usually provide a noticeably better experience.
Q3: Can I use an elongated toilet seat on a round toilet (or vice versa)?
A: No. Toilet seats are not universal.
- Bowl Length: Must match elongated or round shape.
- Bolt Spacing: Seat mounting holes must align with the toilet.
Always choose a seat designed for your toilet’s exact bowl shape and size.
Q4: Can I install a bidet on my elongated toilet?
A: Yes. Both elongated and round toilets can use bidet attachments as long as the size matches correctly.
- Bidet seats: Must match the toilet bowl shape.
- Bidet attachments: Fit most standard two-bolt toilets if measurements align.
Just confirm compatibility before purchasing.
Q5: Will replacing my toilet seat remove the soft-close feature?
A: No. The soft-close function is a feature of the seat itself — not the toilet.
Just ensure that the new toilet seat you buy includes the soft-close mechanism.
Q6: Are all Giving Tree Home toilets elongated?
A: No. Giving Tree Home offers toilets in all standard sizes:
- Round (16.5–17.5 inches)
- Elongated (18.5 inches or more)
- Extra-long options for specific needs
We provide multiple configurations to fit bathrooms of all shapes and sizes.
