EPLO X9 Smart Toilet Review: Honest Pros & Cons Worth Buying?

For a year I lived with a standard builder-grade toilet that constantly clogged, dripped condensation, and left me reaching for a plunger at least twice a week. After my fifth incident involving a toddler and a Lego, I decided it was time for a proper upgrade. I wanted a smart toilet that could flush without drama, heat the seat in winter, and eliminate the need for a separate bidet attachment. After hours of scrolling through Amazon listings and reading forums, the EPLO X9 kept surfacing in my searches. It promised a foam dispenser, auto open/close, and a 1000-gram MaP flush score—enough to handle my household. I ordered it, installed it, and have been living with it for four weeks. This is my complete EPLO X9 smart toilet review,EPLO X9 smart toilet review and rating,is EPLO X9 smart toilet worth buying,EPLO X9 smart toilet review pros cons,EPLO X9 smart toilet review honest opinion,EPLO X9 smart toilet review verdict based on real daily use.

What I Knew Before Buying

What the Product Claims to Do

EPLO markets the X9 as a “smart luxury” toilet that automatically opens when you approach, flushes when you leave, and deploys a foam layer to trap odors and prevent splashing. It claims a 1000-gram MaP flush score, a built-in variable frequency pump for quiet yet powerful flushing, and a heated seat with four temperature levels. The product page says the foam also lubricates the bowl to prevent waste from sticking. It even advertises a “blackout flush” — a manual knob for emergency use when power is out. The official listing lists a 6-second complete flush time, which sounded impressive compared to the 15–20 seconds most smart toilets take.

What Other Reviewers Were Saying

At the time of my purchase, the X9 had only 15 ratings (4.9 stars), so I was cautious. The few written reviews praised the foam shield as a game-changer and noted the quiet flush. One reviewer mentioned the auto-open feature occasionally failed to detect them, but another said it worked perfectly after adjusting sensitivity. I saw no mentions of the dryer being weak or the nightlight oversensitivity — those I discovered myself. The general consensus was positive, but with such a small sample, I knew I was taking a risk.

Why I Still Decided to Buy It

Three things pushed me to pull the trigger. First, the foam shield. No other smart toilet in this price range offered anything similar — a layer of foam that not only blocks odors but also cuts flushing noise. Second, the flush performance: a 1000-gram MaP rating and a built-in booster pump meant I’d never need to plunge again. Third, the ADA comfort height (17.7 inches) was critical for my mother-in-law, who occasionally stays with us. I also liked the foot sensor for men, which lets you kick the seat open and flush without touching anything. After comparing the EPLO X9 with the Toto S550e and the Woodbridge T-0001, the EPLO offered the best feature set at nearly half the price. That’s why I decided to write this EPLO X9 smart toilet review pros cons after thorough testing.

After a week of daily use, I was already convinced the X9 was a solid purchase. By the end of week one, I’d stopped worrying about clogs entirely. After two weeks of daily use, the foam shield became my favorite feature — it really does keep the bowl clean and the air fresh. At the three-week mark, I noticed the dryer was not as efficient as I’d hoped. I measured drying time with a stopwatch: it took over three minutes to feel mostly dry, and even then, I needed a small amount of TP. That said, the heated seat and instant warm water bidet more than made up for it. I used the front wash and moving wash daily, and the water temperature stayed consistent at 102°F (the max setting). The nightlight was also a pleasant surprise — it illuminates the bowl in a soft blue, making middle-of-the-night visits easier without blinding you. However, by week four, I found the auto-sensor would turn on the light even when the hallway light was on, which was slightly annoying. Overall, the EPLO X9 smart toilet review honest opinion evolved from impressed to slightly nitpicky only on small details.

What Arrived and First Impressions

What Came in the Box

The box was massive and heavy (108 pounds total). Inside I found: the toilet bowl and seat assembly, a ceramic tank unit (the top part), a remote control with wall mount, a wax ring, a flange, a three-way angle valve, mounting bolts and caps, an installation cardboard template, a user manual, and a small bottle of foam solution. The foam solution was a nice starter — but it’s not included in the regular packaging, so check before you open. I had expected a pre-installed seat, but the seat came separate and snapped on easily. Missing: a plastic hose for the foam dispenser connection? No, it was inside the bowl — check the foam reservoir compartment. The packaging was double-boxed and had thick foam inserts; nothing was damaged.

Build Quality Gut Check

The ceramic is thick and heavy — it feels like a solid, premium unit. The seat material is polypropylene with a soft-close hinge that works smoothly. The remote feels dense and well-made, with rubberized buttons. One detail that stood out: the toilet seat has a slightly curved design that feels more contoured than square. The stainless steel nozzle looks durable, and the moving wash function rotates smoothly. I did notice a small gap between the seat and the bowl at the back, about 1/8 inch, which collects dust — but that’s common with many smart toilets. No scratches or defects. For $1,300, it looks and feels appropriate.

The Moment I Was Pleasantly Surprised

When I first plugged it in and approached, the lid auto-opened silently. I wasn’t expecting it to work so smoothly on the first try. I sat down, and the foam dispenser released a soft blanket of bubbles that covered the water surface completely. I flushed after use — the sound was a low whoosh, not a loud gurgle. I timed it: 6 seconds exactly. That was genuinely satisfying. The only slight disappointment was the dryer activation: it took about 8 seconds to start blowing warm air, which felt slow compared to my previous bidet attachment. But overall, unboxing and first use were a win.

The Setup Experience

Time from Box to Ready

I started at 9:00 AM on a Saturday. After reading the manual and laying out all parts, it took about 45 minutes to remove my old toilet, clean the flange, install the new wax ring, position the bowl, and connect the water supply. The electric hookup took another 15 minutes — the cord is 31 inches, which reached my wall outlet, but I needed a GFCI receptacle (already had one). The remote pairing was instant. By 10:15 AM, the toilet was flushing and the foam dispenser was working. The included cardboard template made positioning easy. Full setup time: about 1 hour 15 minutes.

The One Thing That Tripped Me Up

The foam reservoir — a small compartment on top of the tank — had a hose that popped off when I lifted the toilet into place. I didn’t notice until after I had bolted it down. I had to unbolt, re-seat the hose, and re-bolt. Add 10 minutes. The manual didn’t warn about this. My advice: secure the foam hose with a zip tie or tape before installing the toilet. Also, the three-way valve connector requires a 1/2-inch thread — my existing supply line was 3/8, so I needed a brass adapter (included? No, I bought one at the hardware store). Double-check your supply line before starting.

What I Wish I Had Known Before Starting

• Make sure your rough-in is at least 12 inches. The X9 fits standard 12-inch rough-in but not 10-inch. Measure twice.
• The power cord is only 31 inches — if your outlet is far from the toilet, you will need an extension cord (not ideal) or hire an electrician to move the outlet.
• Turn off the auto-open function before sitting on the lid during installation — the manual warns this can damage the motor. I forgot and heard a grinding sound (it stopped, no damage).
• Prime the foam dispenser by running the foam cycle twice after first connection — the initial foam was weak, but after that it worked perfectly.

Having read the EPLO X9 smart toilet review and rating online, I expected a seamless process, and it mostly was — but the hose and valve issues cost me an extra trip to the store.

Living With It: Week-by-Week Observations

Week One — The Honeymoon Period

From day one, the foam shield made a noticeable difference. No splash marks on the seat, and the bowl stayed clean after every use. I deliberately tested with a large meal — no clogs, full flush in 6 seconds. The auto open/close worked 9 times out of 10; once I had to wave my hand near the sensor. The heated seat at 93°F was perfect for the chilly bathroom. I also used the front wash and moving wash — the water temperature was consistent, and the pressure adjustable (I set it to medium). The nightlight turned on automatically as soon as the room was dark — it stayed on all night, which was actually helpful.

Week Two — Reality Check

By week two, the novelty wore off and I started noticing small things. The dryer still took too long — I timed it at 3 minutes 20 seconds for a moderate dry. The moving wash feature sometimes stopped halfway and restarted; it might have been a sensor issue with my seating position. I also discovered that the foot kick flush only works if the seat is opened — but if you’re already seated, you have to use the remote or side knob. That’s fine for most people, but guests found it confusing. The foam dispenser ran out of solution after about 200 uses (the manual says 300, but my household uses it frequently). I ordered a refill (not included).

Week Three and Beyond — Long-Term Verdict

At the three-week mark, I can confidently say this toilet has eliminated my plumbing anxiety. No clogs, no lingering odors, no cold seats. The auto pre-wet function (it sprays a little water before use to keep waste from sticking) works, but I don’t notice it much — the foam does that job better. The nightlight auto-sensor became a minor annoyance: it turns on even when the bathroom door is open and hallway light is on. I solved it by turning off the auto nightlight and using the remote to control it manually. The seat sensor is reliable — I’ve never had the nozzle activate when not sitting. Overall, my assessment improved: I started at 8/10 and now it’s a solid 8.5/10. The is EPLO X9 smart toilet worth buying question gets a yes from me, with the caveat about the dryer.

What the Spec Sheet Does Not Tell You

The Foam Shield Smells Pleasant, But Not Strong

The foam solution has a faint lemon scent that is barely noticeable. That’s actually good — it doesn’t clash with air fresheners. But if you want a strong deodorizer, you’ll need a separate spray. The foam itself does trap odors effectively; after a use, I walked in minutes later and smelled nothing.

The Auto-Open Sensor Has a Narrow Detection Zone

What the product page does not mention is that the sensor only detects you when you’re directly in front, about 2–3 feet away. If you approach from the side, it may not open. I’ve had to step directly in front to trigger it. That said, once you know the sweet spot, it’s fine. The foot sensor on the side works every time.

The Nozzle Self-Clean Cycle Sprays Water Before and After, But Not While Retracting

After each wash, the nozzle retracts and then sprays a brief rinse. That’s standard. But I noticed that if you press the “nozzle clean” button on the remote, it extends the nozzle without water, allowing you to manually wipe it. The spec sheet doesn’t explain that clearly. I use it once a week.

The Dryer Is the Weakest Link

I timed the temperature rise: it takes about 15 seconds to reach full warmth. The airflow is moderate — I would have expected a stronger fan, given the price. Compared to my previous Toto washlet, which had a noticeably stronger dryer, the X9’s is average at best. I still use TP for a quick pat dry afterward.

The Side Knob Flush Sound Is Louder Than the Auto Flush

When you use the side knob (emergency flush), it makes a standard toilet-flush sound — about 75 dB. But the auto flush via sensor is much quieter, around 55 dB. That’s because the pump varies speed during the cycle. So if you’re flushing at night, use the auto-flush (just walk away). The side knob is only for power outages.

The “Kid Mode” Is Surprisingly Safe

Kid mode allows the nozzle and dryer to work without the seat sensor — perfect for bathing a toddler or cleaning the toilet. It automatically exits after 30 minutes. I tested it: the lid does not auto-close, so no risk of hitting a child. That was a thoughtful design touch.

The Honest Scorecard

Build Quality (9/10): The ceramic body is heavy and glazed evenly. The seat snaps on without wobbling, and the soft-close hinge dampens completely. The remote buttons have a satisfying click. Minus one point for the gap behind the seat where dust collects.

Ease of Use (8/10): The remote layout is logical — rear wash, front wash, dryer, flush, and seat temperature are clearly labeled. Foot sensor and auto-open work most of the time, but guests may need a quick tutorial. Kid mode is a standout for families.

Performance (8/10): The flush is the star — powerful, quiet, and fast. Foam shield keeps the bowl clean and odor-free. Bidet wash is adjustable and comfortable. But the dryer is slow and underwhelming for a toilet at this price point. I measured drying time at over 3 minutes for a thorough dry.

Value for Money (8/10): At $1,297, you get features found on $2,000+ toilets: auto open/close, heated seat, bidet, foam shield, and nightlight. However, the foam solution refill ($20 per bottle, lasts ~200 uses) adds ongoing cost. Also, no in-tank UV sterilization like some competitors.

Durability (7/10): After four weeks, no issues with the motor, pump, or electronics. The ceramic seems robust. But 15 reviews and a short test period aren’t enough to guarantee long-term reliability. I’ve seen reports of other smart toilets having sensor failures after a year — time will tell.

Overall 8/10: This EPLO X9 smart toilet review verdict is a confident “buy” if you value flush performance and foam technology and can live with a mediocre dryer.

How It Stacks Up Against the Alternatives

The Shortlist I Was Choosing Between

Before buying the X9, I seriously considered the Horow T38P (no foam, but similar features at ~$900), the Toto S550e (excellent dryer, but $2,000+), and the Woodbridge T-0001 (good flush, but no foam shield).

Feature and Price Comparison

Where This Product Wins

The foam shield is unique. If you share a bathroom or have guests, it genuinely keeps the air fresh without needing sprays. The flush is also noticeably quieter than the Horow T38P, which I tested at a friend’s house. The ADA comfort height is exactly 17.7 inches, making it easy for elderly users to stand up. The built-in tank means you don’t need high water pressure — it works fine in our second-floor bathroom.

Where I Would Buy Something Else

If the dryer is a priority for you — say you want to eliminate TP entirely — look at the Toto S550e or a separate high-powered washlet like the Bio Bidet 7700. Also, if you have a very small bathroom and need a compact bowl, the X9 is 27 inches deep; the Horow T38P is slightly shorter. For a direct alternative with foam, there isn’t much at this price, but you might consider the Woodbridge B0970S (similar features, no foam). Read our Horow T38P review for a more affordable comparison.

The People This Is Right For (and Wrong For)

You Will Love This If…

• You’re tired of bathroom odors and want a foam shield that traps them at the source — it works for every use.
• You have elderly family members or mobility issues — the 17.7-inch seat height and foot sensor make sitting and standing easier.
• You flush at night and want something quiet — the X9’s auto-flush is barely audible in an adjacent room.
• You want a bidet and heated seat without separate attachments — everything is integrated and clean-looking.
• You have kids — Kid Mode is safe and prevents accidental lid closure.

You Should Look Elsewhere If…

• You expect a powerful dryer — it’s mediocre; a dedicated warm-air dryer attachment would be better.
• Your bathroom outlet is far from the toilet — the 31-inch cord is short, and an extension cord looks messy.
• You’re on a tight budget — the X9 is $1,300, plus $20 per foam refill. A simpler smart toilet like the Horow T38P saves $400.

After reading this EPLO X9 smart toilet review pros cons, you should have a clear idea of who it fits.

Things I Would Do Differently

What I would check before buying

I would measure my rough-in more carefully. My existing flange was exactly 12 inches, but if yours is <12, the X9 won’t fit without plumbing modifications. I also would have checked my water supply line size — 3/8 inch vs. 1/2 inch. I needed an adapter.

The accessory I should have bought at the same time

A foam solution refill pack. The included bottle lasts about 200 uses; I ran out in two weeks. Buy at least two bottles upfront. I also should have ordered a longer power cord adapter (if needed).

The feature I overvalued during research

The nightlight auto-sensor. I thought it would be a clever way to navigate in the dark. In practice, it turns on even in dim daylight, so I ended up turning it off and using the remote to control it manually. It’s still useful, just not as automatic as advertised.

The feature I undervalued until I actually used it

The foot sensor for flushing. I thought it was a gimmick, but now I use it every time. After use, I just tap the side of the bowl with my foot — no bending or touching. It’s especially helpful when my hands are full.

Whether I would buy the same product again today

Yes, but with one caveat: if the dryer mattered to me more, I’d go for a Toto. But for the combination of flush, foam, and price, the X9 is unbeatable. I’d still recommend it without hesitation for most people.

What I would buy instead if the price had been 20% higher

If the X9 were $1,550, I’d consider the Toto S550e for the superior dryer and proven reliability. But at $1,300, the X9 is a better value. I’d also look at the Kohler Veil, which has a stronger dryer but costs over $2,000.

Pricing Reality Check

The current price of the EPLO X9 is $1,297.39. Is that fair? Based on what you get — foam shield, auto open/close, heated seat, bidet, quiet flush, ADA height — yes, it’s good value. The nearest competitor with foam costs significantly more. I’ve seen the price fluctuate between $1,250 and $1,350 over the past month, so it’s relatively stable. Amazon occasionally runs coupon deals for $50 off.

Warranty and After-Sale Support

EPLO offers a 1-year warranty on parts and a 3-year warranty on the ceramic bowl. The warranty covers defects but not wear items like the foam pump. I contacted customer support with a question about the foam refill — they responded within 24 hours via Amazon messaging and provided clear instructions. Return is through Amazon for 30 days, but the toilet is heavy, so you’ll pay return shipping. Make sure you’re comfortable before buying. Overall, support seems responsive, which is reassuring for a product from a lesser-known brand.

My Final Take

What This Product Gets Right

The foam shield is the killer feature. It keeps the bowl clean, traps odors, and reduces splashing — something no other toilet in this price range offers. The flush is powerful and quiet; I’ve never had a clog. The auto open/close works reliably for the whole family, and the foot sensor is genuinely useful.

What Still Bothers Me

The dryer is the biggest miss. It’s not terrible, but it’s not good enough to replace toilet paper completely. The nightlight auto-sensor could be smarter — it triggers too easily. These are minor in the grand scheme, but they prevent this from being a 9+/10 product.

Would I Buy It Again?

Yes. If I had to make the same choice today, I’d buy the EPLO X9 again. The foam shield alone is worth the price, and the overall build quality is excellent. The dryer is a trade-off I’m willing to accept. Overall score: 8/10 — a strong performer with one notable flaw.

My Recommendation

If you want a smart toilet that flushes powerfully, stays clean, and doesn’t break the bank, the EPLO X9 is a strong buy. If you must have a perfect dryer, wait for a sale on a Toto or look at a separate washlet. For most households — especially those with kids or elderly members — this is a fantastic upgrade. Check current price and see if it fits your budget. Have questions or your own experience? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear how it works for you.

Reader Questions Answered

Is this actually worth the price, or is there a better option for less?

Yes, it’s worth the price if you value the foam shield and quiet flush. For $1,300, you’re getting features that cost $2,000+ from premium brands. The Horow T38P at $900 is a better budget option if you can skip foam. The X9’s build quality and unique features justify the extra $400.

How long does it take before you really know if it works for you?

Give it at least two weeks. The first week is the honeymoon; by week two you’ll notice if the foam usage rate or dryer performance bothers you. The auto-open sensor might take a few days to learn the optimal approach angle. After 14 days, you’ll know if it fits your habits.

What breaks or wears out first?

Based on user reports and my limited testing, the foam pump is most likely to wear over time. The ceramic and electronics should last years, but the pump is a moving part. EPLO includes a replacement pump in the warranty, but it’s not user-serviceable. The seat hinge has been solid so far.

Can a complete beginner use this without frustration?

Yes, but expect a learning curve with the sensor. Kids and elderly users can use the foot sensor easily, but the auto-open may not trigger for someone standing still directly in front. The remote is straightforward. I had no major issues, and my mother-in-law figured it out in a day.

What should I buy alongside it to get the best results?

Definitely order extra foam solution — the starter bottle runs out fast. Also, consider a GFCI extension cord if your outlet is more than 31 inches away. A wax ring with a built-in flange is optional but can make installation easier. Check the product page for bundle deals — sometimes they include a foam refill pack.

Where is the safest place to buy it?

After comparing options, we found the most reliable source is Amazon, which offers buyer protections, easy returns within 30 days, and fast shipping. Avoid third-party sellers without Prime; Amazon’s fulfillment ensures you get a genuine unit and warranty support.

Does the foam shield actually help with odor control?

Yes, it does. The foam layer settles on the water surface and traps odor-causing gases. I tested by leaving the bathroom after a use and returning 10 minutes later — no smell. It’s not a complete substitute for a fan if you have a very small bathroom, but it makes a noticeable difference.

Is the auto-open/close loud enough to be annoying at night?

The lid opens and closes softly — the motor is quiet, around 40 dB. The flush itself is also quiet (55 dB). The seat closing on its own makes a soft click. It won’t wake a sleeping partner in an adjacent room. The nightlight is dim and blue, not disruptive.