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Linear vs Wall Drain Shower | Which Is Best?

Posted by Jody Fisk on Mar 24, 2026

Tub to Shower Conversion Systems

Find the Right Tub to Shower Conversion Kit

Compare linear drain systems, wall drain systems, square drain kits, tile-ready shower pans, and sloping panels designed to simplify tub-to-shower conversions.

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Multiple Drain Styles Linear, wall, square, and tile-ready options
Helpful Resources Spec sheets, sizes, and install info

Shop by Shower System Type

Whether you need a curbed tub-to-shower conversion, a linear drain layout, a wall drain system, or a tile-ready shower pan, these links make it easier to start with the right system and then narrow by size.

SHOWERline

Cost-effective linear drain option with grouped sizes and support resources.

Browse SHOWERline

PROLINEdrain

Commercial-grade stainless drain body with long-size options.

Browse PROLINEdrain

SQUAREdrain

Square drain kits for spa-like tile showers and simplified ordering.

Browse SQUAREdrain

TilePrime

Tile-ready, waterproof shower pans available in popular tub-conversion sizes.

Browse TilePrime

Wall Drain Shower Systems (Premium Hidden Drain)

For a truly seamless, modern shower design, wall-mounted drains eliminate the need for a visible floor drain. The shower floor slopes in one direction toward the wall, creating a clean, barrier-free look ideal for luxury and curbless shower conversions.

WallDrain by QuickDrain

Hidden-in-the-wall linear drain system for the most seamless tile shower design possible.

Shop WallDrain Systems

48” – 72” WallDrain Kits

Ideal for standard tub-to-shower conversions and alcove layouts.

96” – 144” WallDrain Kits

Perfect for larger custom showers and luxury bathroom designs.

Why choose a wall drain?
  • Completely hidden drain for a clean, modern look
  • Single-direction floor slope simplifies tile layout
  • Ideal for curbless and ADA-style showers
  • Reduces grout lines and improves drainage performance

Linear Drain vs Wall Drain Shower: Which Is Right for You?

Both linear drains and wall drain systems are excellent options for modern tub-to-shower conversions. The right choice depends on your layout, design preference, and installation goals.

Feature Linear Drain Wall Drain
Drain Location Floor (edge or center) Hidden in wall
Shower Floor Slope One-direction or multi-slope Single-direction slope
Visual Appearance Visible drain channel Completely hidden
Tile Flexibility Large tile friendly Best for seamless large tile layouts
Installation Complexity Moderate More advanced (wall integration)
Best Use Case Most tub-to-shower conversions High-end, luxury, curbless showers
Cost Range $$ $$$

Choose a Linear Drain If:

  • You want a simpler installation
  • You are replacing a standard bathtub
  • You need flexible drain placement
  • You want strong performance at a lower cost
Shop Linear Drain Systems →

Choose a Wall Drain If:

  • You want a completely hidden drain
  • You are designing a luxury shower
  • You want the cleanest tile layout
  • You are building a curbless or ADA shower
Shop Wall Drain Systems →
Pro Tip: For most 60" tub-to-shower conversions, linear drains are the easiest solution. For high-end or fully custom bathrooms, wall drains deliver the cleanest, most modern finish.

Quick Links by Size

Curbed Shower Sloping Panels

These pre-sloped panel options help simplify installation for curbed shower layouts and tub-to-shower conversions.

Helpful Resources

Need Help Choosing a Tub to Shower Conversion Kit?

EZ Able® can help you compare drain styles, sizes, and installation options for your project.

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