Kohler vs. American Standard

What is the difference between Kohler and American Standard?

American Standard and Kohler are industry leaders in walk-in tubs. Both offer therapeutic air and water jets, safety bars and fast drain and fill times. However, there are a few key differences. American Standard offers more models and custom options, while Kohler has a few extra features like heated seats and a lower step. Keep reading to learn more about these two tub manufacturers.

• American Standard is best for those who want multiple tub models to choose from, such as two-seat tubs, soaking tubs or chromotherapy.
• Kohler is best for those who need a lower step threshold and a more affordable price tag.

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

Overall star rating	4.8	4.5
Verified customer reviews	Read reviews	Read reviews

	4.8	Read reviews
	4.5	Read reviews

Cost

Basic tub starting price	Only available with quote	Only available with quote
Installation	Included	Included
Financing offered
Discounts offered
In-home quotes required
Warranty - Labor	Lifetime	Limited lifetime
Warranty - Parts	Lifetime	Limited lifetime
Warranty - Tub	Lifetime	Limited lifetime

	Only available with quote	Included				Lifetime	Lifetime	Lifetime
	Only available with quote	Included				Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime

Available walk-in tub types

Soaker tub
Wheelchair-accessible tub	—
Bariatric tub	—
Tub/shower combo
Two-seat tubs	—

		—	—		—

Tub features

Step-in height	3 inches	3 inches
Fast drain
Quick filling
Grab bars included
Number of hydro jets	10	22
Number of air jets	17	22
Chromotherapy offered
Heated seats option	—
Heated backrest option
Remote control option	—
Showerhead options

	3 inches				10	17		—		—
	3 inches				22	22

Services included with installation

Bathroom door resizing
Old tub removal
Wall repair and repaint
Electrical wiring
Flooring touch-up

All information accurate as of publishing date.

Kohler

Kohler is a popular bath, kitchen and lighting manufacturer that offers one model of walk-in tub. This tub includes all of the most popular features, including therapeutic jets and an extra-low step.

Kohler stands out from the competition with its luxury finishes and bath walls that create an elegant-looking walk-in tub. Tubs can be installed in as little as one day, and financing is available at participating dealers. Ask about installation promotions and current financing offers during your free estimate.

• Walk-In Bath: Kohler only offers one model of walk-in bath, but the tub is packed with features. It has a low 3-inch step and handrails for extra safety. The tub includes adjustable hydrotherapy and air jets, a heated backrest and a multifunction hand-held shower. You can add custom finishes and bath walls to personalize the look of your new tub. Kohler's tubs are designed and assembled in the U.S. and backed by a lifetime limited warranty.

What Kohler customers say

Customers who have purchased a Kohler walk-in tub give the company good reviews on ConsumerAffairs. Many people praise the professional sales and installation process and say Kohler's representatives are helpful and friendly.

Many customers are happy with the walk-in tub's comfort level and say it helps with chronic pain. A few customers have mentioned leaking issues and unprepared installers, however.

American Standard

American Standard is a long-standing manufacturer of kitchen and bathroom fixtures, including walk-in tubs. You can choose from a variety of sizes and left- or right-hand door options to find the perfect fit for your bathroom.

The company also sells wheelchair-accessible options, two-seat tubs, shower and walk-in tub combos and hydrotherapy features like air jets, whirlpools and combination tubs. Interest-free financing is also available for qualified applicants.

There are a few types of walk-in tubs to choose from with American Standard. Tub sizes start at 28 inches by 48 inches, with several size options available for each type of tub.

• Soaking walk-in tubs: American Standard's soaking tubs are great for a daily soak. They offer a deep seat, quick drain and grab bars. You can filter more than 60 models by their material, color and size.
• Whirlpool massage walk-in tubs: Whirlpool tubs use hydro jets, heaters and massagers to create a spa-like experience at home. Be sure to choose a model with the right number of jets, door alignment and size for your bathroom.
• Air massage walk-in tubs: These tubs include air jets that create thousands of tiny bubbles that massage and exfoliate your skin. Some models also feature chromotherapy lights. The tubs are available in gelcoat or acrylic, and there are multiple size options.
• Combo air and whirlpool walk-in tubs: Get the best of both worlds with a combination tub that features air and whirlpool jets. These tubs offer a soothing, muscle-relaxing bathing experience, especially with optional chromotherapy.

What American Standard customers say

American Standard has plenty of satisfied customers on ConsumerAffairs. The significant majority of reviewers express happiness with the company's customer service, the installation process and the quality of the tub.

A few negative reviews were focused on customer service complaints or poor installation. A handful of additional reviewers had trouble with closing the tub or fully draining it.

Bottom line: Kohler or American Standard?

American Standard and Kohler are competitive walk-in tub providers. American Standard offers a variety of options to choose from with several different jet and therapeutic features, size options and door configurations. Kohler only offers one model of walk-in tub, but it comes with all of the most common comfort features. Request an estimate from each company to compare pricing for the models you're interested in.