TOTO Drake II Two-Piece Toilet Review: The 1000g Flush Champion with CEFIONTECT Glaze

How powerful is the TOTO Drake II flush?

The MaP (Maximum Performance) score is the gold standard for measuring toilet flush performance. Independent testing at map-testing.com confirms the Drake II clears 1000 grams of simulated waste, which is roughly equivalent to flushing 20 or more adult bowel movements at once. This performance is exceptional for a 1.28 gallon per flush toilet.

The flush system uses TOTO's Double Cyclone technology, which employs two powerful nozzles to create a centrifugal washing action inside the bowl. Unlike traditional rim-fed toilets that rely on multiple small holes, the Double Cyclone system delivers water in a focused, rotating stream that scrubs the entire bowl surface. Combined with the 3-inch fully glazed trapway, waste passes through with minimal resistance.

One common concern with low-flow toilets is clogging, but the Drake II's wide trapway and high MaP score directly address this. Owners consistently report that clogs are rare, even in households with heavy usage. The flush action is forceful but not noisy, producing a satisfying whoosh rather than a violent roar.

How water-efficient is the TOTO Drake II?

The EPA WaterSense program requires toilets to pass rigorous performance tests in addition to meeting the 1.28 GPF water consumption limit. The Drake II not only meets these requirements but exceeds them with its 1000g MaP score. This combination of water savings and flush power is the primary reason the Drake II is so highly regarded.

For comparison, older toilets from the 1990s often used 3.5 to 5 gallons per flush. Upgrading to a Drake II reduces water usage by 60% to 75% per flush. In areas with high water rates, the toilet can pay for itself in water savings within a few years.

The CEFIONTECT glaze also contributes to water efficiency by preventing waste from sticking to the bowl. This means you will need fewer flushes to clean the bowl and less water for manual cleaning. The glaze is a ceramic layer fired into the porcelain at high temperatures, creating an ultra-smooth surface that resists bacterial growth and debris adhesion.

What do owners say about the TOTO Drake II?

Across major retailers and home improvement forums, the Drake II consistently earns ratings between 4.5 and 4.8 out of 5 stars. The most frequent positive comments focus on the flush performance. Many owners report that the toilet handles large waste loads without double flushing, which is a common complaint with lower-end 1.28 GPF models.

The CEFIONTECT glaze receives particular praise. Owners note that the bowl stays cleaner longer and requires less scrubbing. Some report that a simple brush swish is enough to remove most residue, and that hard water stains are less of an issue compared to standard porcelain toilets.

The universal height of 16.5 inches is another frequently mentioned benefit. This height is comfortable for adults and meets ADA guidelines, making it easier to sit down and stand up. Owners with mobility issues or taller family members appreciate this feature.

On the critical side, the most common complaint is the lack of an included seat. While this allows owners to choose their preferred seat, it adds to the overall cost and requires an additional purchase. Some owners also mention that the toilet is heavier than expected, making installation a two-person job. A few note that the bowl surface can show water spots in areas with hard water, though this is less severe than with standard glazes.

How does the TOTO Drake II compare to similar toilets?

The original TOTO Drake (CST454CEFG) is a legendary toilet in its own right, with the same 1000g MaP score and a loyal following. It already uses the same 3-inch fully glazed trapway as the Drake II, paired with a G-Max flush system with multiple rim jets. The Drake II improves on this not with a wider trapway, but with CEFIONTECT glaze and Double Cyclone technology, which provides a more thorough bowl rinse and reduces the chance of waste sticking to the porcelain.

Another common comparison is with the American Standard Champion 4. The Champion 4 uses a 4-inch flush valve and posts the same 1000g MaP score, with a narrower 2-3/8-inch fully glazed trapway rather than a CEFIONTECT-like surface. The Champion 4 also uses more water at 1.6 GPF and sits at a similar chair height (16.5 in). Owners report the Champion 4 is slightly louder than the Drake II and requires more frequent cleaning due to the standard porcelain surface.

Against the Kohler Wellworth, the Drake II wins on both MaP score and glaze technology. The Wellworth typically scores around 800g on MaP tests and uses a standard 2-inch trapway. The Wellworth is generally less expensive but does not offer the same level of flush performance or bowl cleanliness.

For budget-conscious buyers, the Glacier Bay N2420 offers a lower price point but scores around 600g on MaP tests and uses a 1.28 GPF flush. The Drake II is clearly superior in flush power and build quality, but the Glacier Bay is a functional option for those on a tight budget.