Schluter Kerdi-Line
The Schluter Kerdi-Line is the drain I used on my last build because it integrates directly with the Kerdi waterproofing membrane. The flange has the membrane bonded right to it, so the seam at the drain isn't a weak point. Tile insert is anchored cleanly and ships with adjustable height. Flow rate handles a typical shower without standing water. The drain body fits standard 2-inch PVC. The trade-off is the price; it's at the higher end. If you're using Schluter membrane already, the system fit is worth it.
I renovated two bathrooms with tile-insert linear drains and tested five brands for waterproofing fit, tile reveal accuracy, and how cleanly they drain.
I just finished my second curbless tile shower with a tile-insert linear drain, and the planning for the drain is more involved than people expect. The drain choice affects waterproofing membrane fit, tile thickness range, slope direction, and how the finished shower looks. Here are five drains I either installed or seriously considered, with notes on what they do well.
| Drain | Type | Tile Thickness | Flange | Best For |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Schluter Kerdi-Line | Linear | 3/8 to 5/8 in | Integrated | Schluter waterproofing systems |
| KBRS Linear | Linear | 1/4 to 3/4 in | PVC | Pan-and-curb conversions |
| Infinity Drain LT | Linear | 3/8 to 3/4 in | Stainless | High-end remodels |
| Quick Drain ProLine | Linear | 3/8 to 5/8 in | Stainless | Pro installs |
| Tile Redi Square | Center | 3/8 to 1/2 in | Integrated | Drop-in showers |
Our methodology
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
Side by side
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schluter Kerdi-Line | Linear | Check price | |
| KBRS Linear | Linear | Check price | |
| Infinity Drain LT | Linear | Check price | |
| Tile Redi Square | Center | Check price |
The full reviews
Schluter Kerdi-Line
The Schluter Kerdi-Line is the drain I used on my last build because it integrates directly with the Kerdi waterproofing membrane. The flange has the membrane bonded right to it, so the seam at the drain isn't a weak point. Tile insert is anchored cleanly and ships with adjustable height. Flow rate handles a typical shower without standing water. The drain body fits standard 2-inch PVC. The trade-off is the price; it's at the higher end. If you're using Schluter membrane already, the system fit is worth it.
KBRS Linear
The KBRS Linear drain is the value pick for tile-insert builds. PVC flange that accepts a wide range of waterproofing methods including hot-mop, sheet membrane, and liquid. The insert tray accepts tile up to 3/4 inch, which covers thick natural stone better than most. Drain pan is roughly half the price of the Schluter. The downside is the install steps are slightly less idiot-proof; the membrane-to-flange seal requires careful clamping. For competent DIYers it's a strong pick.
Infinity Drain LT
The Infinity Drain LT is the high-end pick I'd specify for a master bath where details matter. 304 stainless body, custom tile insert tray that can be ordered to length, and a flange that works with most major waterproofing systems. The frame is thicker and the fit between insert and frame is tighter than the others I compared, so the tile sits flush with no reveal. Flow rate is the highest in this group, which matters for body-spray showers. It's the most expensive option, and lead time can be a few weeks.
Tile Redi Square
The Tile Redi Square is the center-drain pick for people who don't want a linear drain. It comes integrated with a sloped shower pan, which simplifies the build significantly because you don't have to mud-pack a slope. Tile insert sits flush with the surrounding tile. Best for showers where you can use small tiles or mosaics around the drain to follow the four-way slope. Not appropriate for big-format tile. The pan-plus-drain combo is competitive with buying components separately.
Frequently asked
Linear drains let you slope the floor in one direction, which lets you use bigger tile and creates a cleaner look. Center drains need a four-way slope and only work with small tiles or mosaics.
Slightly, because water has to flow around the tile to the perimeter slots. With proper slope, the difference doesn't matter for normal shower flow rates.
Yes, but you need to recess the joists or build a sloped subfloor to get the drain low enough. Most retrofit jobs require structural work and a licensed plumber for the trap connection.
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