If you're researching TOTO bidet seats, you've likely come across the C5 and the S5. Both offer a strong set of features designed to improve hygiene and comfort, but there are some important differences to keep in mind. The C5 was a popular mid-tier option, known for its slim remote, heated seat, warm water tank, PREMIST, and EWATER+ functions. The C5 was our go-to recommendation for a lot of customers because of the value and features it offers. However, it has now been replaced by the new and improved S5. The S5 carries over many of the C5’s core features but adds a sleeker design, expanded user presets, and continuous warm water thanks to its tankless heating system. So, which one is right for you? Below, we’ll break down the features in more detail to help you decide.
Design and Form Factor
One of the most noticeable differences between the two models is the shape and size. A lot of entry level washlets and bidet seats have a taller profile near the back of the unit. The C5 was for sure guilty of this, but the S5 makes a noticeable improvement with its slimmer profile.
- C5: Features a more traditional WASHLET design with a visible water tank at the rear. This can add some bulk to the overall profile of the seat.
- S5: Uses a tankless water heating system, which allows for a much slimmer, low-profile design. This makes the seat look more integrated with modern toilets and easier to clean around.
If aesthetics or space are a concern, the S5 is a cleaner fit.
Water Heating Technology
Both models offer warm water cleansing, but the heating methods differ.
- C5: Uses a reservoir-style heater. Water is stored and kept warm in a tank, which can run out during longer use. Around 30 - 40 seconds of warm water usage.
- S5: Features an instantaneous ceramic heater, providing continuous warm water on demand.
The S5's approach is not only more efficient but also eliminates the issue of running out of warm water mid-use.
Remote Control and Usability
Each model includes a wireless remote, which is a big upgrade from the controls being on an attached control bar, like the older C2 and even the newer S2. The wireless remotes offer a different experience thought from each model.
- C5: Comes with a standard wireless remote, functional, but basic in layout.
- S5: Offers a slim remote with backlit buttons, a magnetic wall mount, and a more modern design.
While both are easy to use, the S5’s remote feels more intuitive and polished and offers a better experience overall.
User Presets
If multiple people in your household use the WASHLET, user presets are a helpful feature. I always like to compare this to driver presets in cars making sure the seat and the mirrors are all in the perfect place for each user that jumps in the driver's seat.
- C5: Supports 2 user presets, allowing different users to save preferred spray position, pressure, and temperature.
- S5: Expands that capability to 4 user presets, offering more flexibility in shared bathrooms.
Added Features
The S5 includes a few quality-of-life upgrades that aren’t available on the C5. These features show how Tot is designing a luxury experience at every price point:
- Built-in LED night light for low-light use
- Antimicrobial coating on the wand for enhanced hygiene
- Sleeker, more seamless underside for easier cleaning and less dust buildup
These additions don’t drastically change how the unit functions—but they do improve the day-to-day experience.
Availability
A final practical consideration: the TOTO C5 elongated has been discontinued. The Toto C5 round will still be available as an online exclusive. While you may still find it through remaining stock or third-party sellers, it’s no longer actively restocked by many retailers. In contrast, the S5 is part of TOTO’s current lineup, with ongoing manufacturer support and availability.
TOTO S5 vs. C5: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | S5 | C5 |
|---|---|---|
| User Presets | 4 Users | 2 Users |
| Water Heating | Instant and continuous warm water | Hot water tank; limited warm water |
| Remote Control | Ultra-slim and ergonomic with magnetic wall dock | Slim, standard remote |
| Seat Profile | 19% slimmer with seamless underside | Standard; visible seam underneath |
| Hygiene | PREMIST, EWATER+, clean resin wand coating | PREMIST, EWATER+ wand cleaning |
| LED Night Light | Yes | No |
| Heated Seat | Yes | Yes |
| Warm Air Dryer | Yes – 3 temp settings, higher airflow | Yes – 3 temp settings |
| Automatic Deodorizer | Yes | Yes |
| Energy Saving Mode | Automatic mode with idle detection | Manual timer |
Summary
Both the TOTO C5 and S5 deliver a reliable, feature-rich bidet seat experience, with core functions like warm water cleansing, adjustable settings, and remote control. Comparing the TOTO C5 vs. S5 WASHLET, the S5 is a clear upgrade—and our customers agree. The C5 earned its reputation as a reliable, mid-tier bidet seat with premium features like a heated seat, PREMIST, EWATER+, and a wireless remote. But as TOTO phases out the C5, the S5 takes its place with noticeable enhancements our customers love: a sleeker, low-profile tankless design, continuous warm water with instant heating, and an upgraded remote with user-friendly backlit buttons.
However, the S5 improves on the C5 in several key areas:
- Slimmer, tankless design
- Continuous warm water
- Upgraded remote
- 4 user presets
- Additional convenience features (night light, antimicrobial wand)
- Actively supported and currently in production
If you're choosing between the two, the S5 offers more long-term value and improved functionality, especially since the C5 elognated is now discontinued. As a top-selling model in our lineup, we’ve found the S5 delivers comfort, hygiene, and convenience. Making it the new middle weight champion of TOTO WASHLETs available today.
