The Toto Ultramax and Ultramax II are two of Toto’s most popular toilet models. As high-efficiency toilets with powerful flush systems, excellent bowl cleaning, and sleek designs, it’s easy to see why these Toto toilets are customer favorites.
However, with the release of the newer Ultramax II model, you may be wondering what the differences are between the original Ultramax and the Ultramax II, and which one is better suited for your bathroom.
In this comprehensive comparison guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the Toto Ultramax vs Ultramax II toilets across a range of factors:
Key Differences Between the Toto Ultramax vs Ultramax II Toilets
While the Ultramax and Ultramax II share many similarities, there are some notable differences between the two Toto toilet models:
- Flushing system: The Ultramax II has Toto’s newer, more powerful Double Cyclone flushing system compared to the single flush mechanism on the original Ultramax.
- Water usage: The Ultramax II is WaterSense certified to use only 1.28 GPF (gallons per flush), making it more water efficient than the Ultramax which uses 1.6 GPF.
- Bowl shape: The Ultramax II has a more elongated, skirted bowl design compared to the rounder bowl on the Ultramax.
- Dimensions: The Ultramax II is slightly larger and taller than the Ultramax toilet.
Price: As the newer model, the Ultramax II typically costs more than the Ultramax.
We’ll explore these key differences in more detail in the sections below.
Flush Performance
One of the biggest differences between the Toto Ultramax and Ultramax II is the flushing technology.
Toto Ultramax Flushing System
The original Toto Ultramax uses Toto’s G-Max flushing system. This is a single flush, high-efficiency system that generates a strong siphon during the flush.
Key features of the Ultramax’s G-Max flushing system include:
- Large 3″ flush valve: Provides greater water flow during the flush.
- Extra-large siphon jet: Powerfully jets water into the bowl to maximize the siphon effect.
- Wide, fully-glazed 2-1/8″ trapway: Allows waste to exit the bowl quickly and efficiently.
This combination enables the Ultramax toilet to provide a robust flush using only 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Many customer reviews praise the Ultramax for its excellent flush power that can clear waste in one flush.
Toto Ultramax II Double Cyclone Flushing
The newer Ultramax II uses Toto’s Double Cyclone flushing system. This dual-nozzle flush mechanism provides two powerful streams of water to generate greater force.
Here are some key features of the Ultramax II Double Cyclone flush:
- Dual nozzles: Provides double the flushing power with two nozzles located on opposite sides of the bowl rim.
- Cyclone siphon jet: Uses water more efficiently and increases the siphon effect compared to a standard jet.
- Fully-glazed 2-1/8” trapway: Like the Ultramax, allows waste to exit without obstruction.
The Ultramax II Double Cyclone system produces an even stronger and more effective flush despite using 20% less water than the Ultramax (1.28 gallons per flush). The two cyclonic streams give 360° cleaning action to leave the bowl immaculately clean.
Water Efficiency
Due to updated flush technology, the Toto Ultramax II is significantly more water efficient than the original Ultramax.
Toto Ultramax Water Usage
The Ultramax has a flush volume of 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF). This was reduced from the industry standard of 3.5+ GPF at the time of its release.
1.6 GPF is still respectable by today’s standards and allows the Ultramax toilet to qualify for the EPA’s WaterSense certification for high-efficiency.
Toto Ultramax II Water Usage
The Ultramax II takes water efficiency a step further, with an ultra-low flush volume of just 1.28 GPF.
This allows the Ultramax II to use 20% less water than the Ultramax, while still providing equal or greater flush power through its Double Cyclone system. 1.28 GPF exceeds the maximum criteria for WaterSense certification.
As a result, the newer Ultramax II is the more eco-friendly, water-saving choice between the two Toto models. Reduced water usage results in lower utility bills and greater sustainability.
Toilet Bowl Design
There are some visible differences between the Toto Ultramax and Ultramax II when it comes to the toilet bowl design and appearance.
Toto Ultramax Toilet Bowl
The Ultramax features a two-piece design with a rounded bowl.
Key attributes include:
- Universal height: 16-1/2” rim height fits most users.
- Compact elongated bowl: Extends less than standard elongated bowls.
- Sanagloss finish: Toto’s proprietary glazing prevents debris and waste from sticking.
The Ultramax’s shorter, rounder bowl is optimized for smaller bathrooms where space is at a premium.
Toto Ultramax II Toilet Bowl
The Ultramax II bowl has a more contemporary, streamlined look:
- Elongated bowl: More oval-shaped and slightly longer than the Ultramax.
- CeFiONtect glaze: Extremely smooth nano-coated glaze for easy cleaning.
- Universal height: Same comfortable 16-1/2″ rim height.
- Skirted trapway: Conceals the trapway for sleek aesthetics.
The Ultramax II’s smooth skirted design accentuates the modern style. The elongated bowl provides a larger opening and more comfortable experience for most users.
Toilet Dimensions
While quite similar, the Ultramax II has slightly larger dimensions overall compared to the original Ultramax toilet.
Toto Ultramax Dimensions
- Height: 30-3/4” (base to seat top)
- Width: 28”
- Depth: 19-1/4″
- Rough-in: 12”
- Seat height: 16-1/2″
Toto Ultramax II Dimensions
- Height: 32-5/8”
- Width: 28-3/8″
- Depth: 19-11/16″
- Rough-in: 12”
- Seat height: 16-1/2″
The increased height and proportions on the Ultramax II accommodate its taller tank and more elongated bowl. The skirted design also adds some width.
However, the seat height remains identical between models. And with the same 12″ rough-in, both toilets will fit universal bathroom layouts.
Price Comparison
As you would expect with the newer model, the Toto Ultramax II typically costs more than the Ultramax toilet.
Toto Ultramax Price
The Toto Ultramax has an MSRP of $680 but often sells for around $450 – $550 at major retailers. Periodic sales and discounts can bring this down further.
It’s a mid-range model given its blend of power, performance, and more basic features compared to higher-end Toto toilets.
Toto Ultramax II Price
The Ultramax II has an MSRP of $940. However, like most Toto toilets, it sells for significantly less than list price.’
Expect to pay approximately $650 – $750 for the Ultramax II toilet. Some sales could potentially bring this closer to $600.
As Toto’s newer model with advanced features like Double Cyclone flush and CeFiONtect glazing, the Ultramax II justifiably commands a higher price tag.
Common Pros and Cons
Based on customer feedback and real-world experiences, here are some of the key pros and cons shared between the Toto Ultramax and Ultramax II toilets:
Pros
- Excellent flush power and performance
- Low maintenance and easy cleaning
- Efficient and reliable flushes
- No clogs with solid waste
- Quick installation
- Quiet flushing operation
- Comfortable universal seat height
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons
- Higher cost than basic toilets
- Some complaints of condensation on tank
- May need double flushing for liquid waste
- Toilet seat not included
- May need wax ring for proper fit
While minor drawbacks exist, most agree the positives of great flush power, water savings, and hassle-free maintenance outweigh any negatives of these Toto models.
Which Is the Better Toilet: Ultramax or Ultramax II?
With their similarities and differences compared, which Toto toilet comes out on top – the Ultramax or Ultramax II?
The Ultramax II is the newer, more advanced toilet overall, with advantages in flushing performance, bowl design, water efficiency, and features.
However, the original Ultramax is still an outstanding toilet in its own right, and usually available at a noticeably lower price point.
Reasons to Choose the Toto Ultramax Toilet
There are some situations where the Ultramax still gets the nod:
- Your bathroom space is tight and compact
- You want an affordable high-efficiency toilet
- You prefer a rounder, standard toilet bowl
Reasons to Choose the Toto Ultramax II Toilet
Consider choosing the Ultramax II if:
- You want the newest model with the most advanced features
- Maximum flushing power and bowl cleaning are important
- You prefer a modern, skirted elongated toilet design
- Water efficiency is a priority
While very similar, the Ultramax II increased performance and contemporary style justify the higher price for many households.
But the Ultramax remains a leading toilet in its own right that will ably serve most bathrooms at a more budget-friendly cost.
The Bottom Line
It’s a close matchup between two of Toto’s most popular toilet models. While the newer Ultramax II boasts improvements in flushing, bowl design, water savings, and aesthetics, the original Ultramax toilet still brings tremendous value and reliability to the bathroom.
If money is no object, or you prefer the look and features of the Ultramax II, it’s hard to go wrong with this efficient modern toilet.
But for shoppers on a tighter budget who want trusted Toto performance at a lower price, the Ultramax delivers admirably on all fronts, making it a great choice for maximizing value without compromising on quality or function.
Whichever model you choose, both the Toto Ultramax and Ultramax II represent the pinnacle of high-efficiency toilets, sure to provide long-lasting satisfaction and a marked improvement for your bathroom.
FAQs
Q: What is the main difference between the Toto Ultramax and Ultramax II?
A: The key difference is the flushing system. The Ultramax II has Toto’s newer Double Cyclone flush while the Ultramax uses the single G-Max flush. The Double Cyclone provides more power and better bowl cleaning.
Q: Which toilet is more water efficient?
A: The Ultramax II is more water efficient, using only 1.28 gallons per flush versus 1.6 gallons per flush for the Ultramax. The Ultramax II exceeds WaterSense standards for high efficiency.
Q: Do these toilets come with a toilet seat?
A: No, neither the Ultramax nor Ultramax II come with a toilet seat. The bowl unit and tank are included, but the seat must be purchased separately.
Q: What type of bowl do these Toto models have?
A: The Ultramax has a compact elongated bowl while the Ultramax II has a standard elongated bowl. Both feature a universal comfortable height.
Q: How much more expensive is the Ultramax II versus the Ultramax?
A: The Ultramax II typically costs about $100-150 more than the equivalent Ultramax model. The newer Ultramax II carries a higher MSRP which is reflected in retail pricing.
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