HOROW T38P Review: Is It Worth It in 2026?

The HOROW T38P is HOROW's most premium electric smart toilet, priced at $1,299. It builds on the standard T38 with three meaningful hardware upgrades: ADA-compliant seat height, a certified MAP 1000g flush rating, and Splash Foam Shield compatibility.

But are those upgrades worth the extra cost?

In this review we cover ADA height and what it means in practice, MAP flush performance, the full bidet feature set, UV sterilization, installation requirements, and exactly who should buy the T38P versus who should stick with the standard T38.

If you are comparing the T38P directly against the T38, see our HOROW T38 vs T38P Comparison for a side by side breakdown. If you are new to smart toilets entirely, start with our Smart Toilet Buying Guide first.

Quick Verdict

The HOROW T38P is one of the most capable mid-range smart toilets available in 2026. For households that need ADA-compliant seating, want the highest verified flush performance in the HOROW lineup, or plan to use the optional Splash Foam Shield system, it is the clear choice. For everyone else, the standard T38 at $999 delivers the same core smart toilet experience at a lower price.

Design and Build Quality

The T38P is a one-piece integrated smart toilet with a skirted base and concealed trapway. The design is clean and contemporary, fitting naturally in modern bathrooms without the bulky tank-and-seat profile of older toilet designs.

Build quality is solid for the price tier. Vitreous china ceramic construction with a glazed interior finish, a stainless steel bidet nozzle, and a durable soft-close seat mechanism. It does not include the advanced proprietary ceramic coatings found in premium brands like TOTO, but for standard residential use the surface finish performs reliably and resists staining well.

The one-piece construction means fewer joints and seams where bacteria and moisture can build up, which also makes cleaning considerably easier than two-piece alternatives.

ADA Height: What It Means in Practice

The T38P seat sits 17.5 inches from the floor, meeting ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) height standards. Standard residential toilets are typically 16 inches.

That 2 inch difference is more meaningful than it sounds. A higher seat height reduces the bending required to sit and stand, lowers joint strain for elderly users or anyone with knee and hip concerns, and provides a noticeably more comfortable experience for taller individuals regardless of mobility needs.

The standard T38 does not meet ADA height standards. If seat height matters to anyone in your household, this single difference makes the T38P the straightforward choice.

Flush Performance: MAP 1000g Rating Explained

The T38P carries a MAP (Maximum Performance) flush rating of 1000 grams. The standard T38 does not list a certified MAP rating.

MAP testing is an independent standard that measures how effectively a toilet clears solid waste in a single flush. A 1000g score is the highest tier of certification, meaning the toilet has been verified to remove 1000 grams of solid waste reliably in one flush.

For most modern homes this difference is unlikely to be noticeable day to day. Where it genuinely matters is in homes with older plumbing, lower water pressure, or households that have experienced weak flushing issues with previous toilets.

UV Nozzle Sterilization

Both the T38 and T38P include automatic UV sterilization for the bidet nozzle. UV sterilization activates 10 seconds after use and runs for up to 3 minutes, eliminating bacteria and microorganisms on the nozzle surface between uses.

This goes beyond the standard self-cleaning water rinse found in lower-tier bidet systems. UV light sterilizes at a microscopic level that water rinsing alone cannot achieve. The nozzle stays retracted behind a protective shield when not in use, preventing direct exposure to the bowl environment.

Bidet Features and Comfort

The T38P includes a full electric bidet feature set:

• Tankless water heating for continuous warm water

• Adjustable water temperature and spray pressure

• Front and rear wash with adjustable spray position

• Heated seat with adjustable temperature

• Warm air dryer

• Self-cleaning nozzle with UV sterilization

• Soft-close lid

• Foot sensor flush and lid control

• Auto open and close lid

• Off-seat automatic flush

• Built-in night light

Tankless heating is a meaningful practical advantage. With a tank-based bidet system the warm water runs out after the tank empties and must reheat before the next use. Tankless heating provides continuous warm water throughout use, which matters for households with multiple daily users.

The foot sensor for the lid and flush is a feature that becomes genuinely useful in daily life. Hands-free operation from start to finish removes multiple daily contact points that conventional toilets require.

Splash Foam Shield Compatibility

The T38P is compatible with HOROW's optional Splash Foam Shield system. The standard T38 is not.

The Splash Foam Shield dispenses foam into the bowl before use, reducing splashing, helping prevent residue from adhering to the bowl surface, and supporting odor reduction. The Splashfoam agent is purchased separately. For buyers who prioritize splash control or additional odor management beyond the built-in deodorizer, this is an exclusive T38P feature.

Battery Backup Flush

Both the T38 and T38P include battery backup flush capability, allowing the toilet to flush during power outages. This is worth knowing for buyers who assume smart toilets become completely non-functional when the power goes out.

Installation Requirements

The T38P requires a standard 12-inch rough-in, a GFCI-protected 120V outlet nearby, and stable residential water pressure. Most professional plumbers can handle installation in a few hours.

Because the T38P includes an instant water heater and air dryer that can draw power simultaneously during use, it is worth having a certified electrician confirm your bathroom circuit can handle the load, particularly in older homes where bathroom wiring may not meet current standards.

For full preparation steps see our Smart Toilet Installation Guide.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• ADA height compliance

• Verified MAP 1000g flush rating

• Tankless warm water heating

• UV nozzle sterilization

• Full bidet feature set including heated seat and air dryer

• Foot sensor flush and lid control

• Battery backup flush

• Splash Foam Shield compatibility

Cons

• $300 more than the standard T38

• No advanced proprietary ceramic glazing

• Splash Foam agent sold separately

• Requires a GFCI outlet that older bathrooms may not have

Who Should Buy the HOROW T38P

The T38P is the right choice if ADA height is required or preferred for anyone in your household, you want a certified MAP 1000g flush rating, you want Splash Foam Shield compatibility, or you are in an older home where stronger flush performance is a priority.

The T38P is not necessary if no one in your household requires ADA height, your home has standard modern plumbing, and Splash Foam Shield is not a priority. In those cases the T38 at $999 represents stronger value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the HOROW T38P worth the extra cost over the T38?

For households where ADA height matters or stronger flush performance is a priority, yes. For standard households with modern plumbing and no accessibility requirements, the T38 delivers the same core experience at a lower price.

Does the HOROW T38P need a plumber to install?

A professional plumber is recommended. The process is similar to replacing a standard toilet but requires a GFCI outlet connection. Most plumbers complete the job in a few hours.

Can the HOROW T38P flush during a power outage?

Yes. Both the T38P and T38 include battery backup flush capability.

What is the seat height on the HOROW T38P?

Between 17 and 19 inches from the floor, meeting ADA height compliance standards.

Does the HOROW T38P include Splashfoam?

The T38P supports the Splash Foam Shield system but the agent is purchased separately.

How does the T38P compare to TOTO?

The T38P delivers strong mid-range performance at $1,299. TOTO's integrated smart toilet range starts significantly higher. For buyers who want smart toilet functionality without luxury pricing, the T38P is one of the most competitive options available. See our HOROW vs TOTO Comparison for a full breakdown.

Final Verdict

The HOROW T38P delivers genuine value for households that need ADA height compliance, want verified flush performance, or want access to the Splash Foam Shield system. It does not compete with premium brands on ceramic technology or brand prestige. It competes on delivering the features that matter most in everyday use at a price that most households can actually justify.

View HOROW T38P Here

View HOROW T38 Here