20+ Best Custom ROMs for Android

If you use Android, you've probably heard of Custom ROM. It is just a tweaked version of the Android operating system with a few extra features and better performance. Each Android device comes with either the Stock Firmware UI or a custom Android skin already installed. But the makers of these official versions put a lot of restrictions on how they can be used.

Users like to flash Custom ROMs on their Android phones because of this. A custom ROM also gives you the latest Android OS with a more feature-rich interface, more privacy, the ability to make changes, longer battery life, and no bloatware. Even though Android phones have gotten better over time, flashing a custom ROM is still a great idea. With custom ROMs, you'll be able to do whatever you want with your Android device.

What is a Custom ROM?

A custom ROM is a third-party operating system that is based on Android source code and replaces the stock Android ROM or skin on your device. Also, custom ROMs give you more choices and control over your device, as well as more features. If you are tired of waiting for official Android OEM updates, it is better to flash a custom ROM and get the new UI right away.

As soon as Google releases the source code for a new version of Android, the developer community gets to work making custom ROMs with the latest flavor. Because of this, there are a lot of companies that sell Android custom ROMs. But many offer unstable ROMs that have bugs and shouldn't be used every day. But a few third-party distributors offer great firmware that changes the custom user interface in small or big ways.

Advantages of Custom ROM

Installing a custom ROM has a number of benefits. If you're stuck on an older version of Android and your phone's manufacturer has stopped providing software updates, you can easily install custom firmware based on the latest Android OS. If your Stock Android has a lot of ads or extra software that you don't want, you can flash a custom ROM to get rid of them. Overall, Custom ROM is the best way to change how Android works for you.

You need to unlock the phone's bootloader and install a custom recovery in order to flash a custom ROM. Also, don't forget to back up your phone with Nandroid and update the USB drivers. You can also get Google services if you install the GApps. If you're just starting out, these technical terms might sound a bit too advanced for you. But you can trust me because I've been there too. In 2012, I found an XDA guide on how to root and install ROM on my Samsung Galaxy Fit. This was the start of everything for me.

My Experience

At first, I was afraid and didn't want to start the process. The fear wasn't that the phone would break, but that it would get stuck and be useless. Everything worked out well, and I was able to flash my first custom ROM. I was amazed and happy by how much better it worked and how it had new features. After that, there was no going back. I started flashing one custom ROM after another on my device.

This guide will help you figure out which custom ROM is best for your Android phone if you don't know where to start. In this article, we talked about some of the most popular custom ROMs that you should try. We've used Redmi Note 8, Poco F1, Poco X3 Pro, Redmi Note 7 Pro, Poco M2 Pro, Redmi Note 10 Pro, Mi 11x, and Samsung M31s to test these custom ROMs. Have you put Windows 11 on your PC before? If so, the same process is used to flash the ROM. The only way to get rid of old Android software and system files is to erase or overwrite their memory and replace them with new ones. Don't worry, it's easy and safe to flash a custom ROM.

The best Android custom ROMs are:

Tired of using the same old Android interface? If so, it's time for you to join my friend in the world of custom ROMs. Here is a list of the most downloaded and most popular custom ROMs for Android. Try them out and give your Android phone or tablet a new lease on life.

1. Pixel Experience

You should check out the Pixel Experience project if you like the user interface and straightforward design of the Google Pixel and if you like how simple it looks. The Pixel experience is an AOSP custom ROM that is built on top of the stock Android operating system. It is compatible with a wide variety of Android phones, including those manufactured by Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme, Asus, and Motorola. Pixel Experience, in contrast to other ROMs, delivers precisely an operating system that is stable and secure but offers fewer customization options.

In addition, Pixel Experience intends to provide a stock version of Android along with a number of Google applications, including the launcher, widgets, wallpapers, icons, font, launcher, lists, and boot animation. Pixel Experience was created by Henrique Pereira, so all of the credit for its success goes to him.

2. LineageOS

Do you remember CyanogenMod? When anyone mentioned custom ROM, the first thing that came to our minds was CyanogenMod. There was a time when it was the only name that came to mind. Cyanogen Inc., however, discontinued CyanogenMod in December of 2016, citing internal drama and conflict as the reason for the decision. After that, the software's developer community decided to rename the project LineageOS.

LineageOS is an Android operating system that supports over 200 different devices. It is based on the open-source code developed by Google. This lightweight ROM provides a wide range of customization options, which contribute to the ROM's high performance and versatile nature. LineageOS is an excellent option to go with if you are interested in a custom operating system that is both quick and dependable, and which also features timely nightly builds.

3. Paranoid Android

Paranoid Android, also known as AOSPA, was one of the most popular alternatives to CyanogenMod as a custom operating system (ROM). The original version of Paranoid Android was released in early 2012 alongside the Android ICS version. A few years ago, it was one of the custom ROMs that was downloaded the most, but after that, it was taken offline. On the other hand, Paranoid Android made a comeback with the Android 10 operating system.

This firmware provides a user experience that is calming and refined, with features such as pie control, tablet UI, Halo, and the Dynamic System Bar. In addition, Google has implemented a plethora of Paranoid Android features, the most notable of which is the Ambient Mode, which is referred to as Peek in PA. We strongly suggest that you give PA a shot if you own a Samsung, Redmi, or OnePlus smartphone at least once.

4. Evolution X

Pixel Experience provides the stock user interface for Android and takes only a few customizations to it. If, on the other hand, you prefer the look and feel of stock Android but still want a large number of personalization options, the Evolution X project is the one for you. You can have the same experience that you get with Google Pixel by using Evolution X, but with more control over your device.

To put it another way, this bespoke operating system is a rock-solid rendition of Resurrection Remix. Consistent updates to the Evolution X build are distributed alongside monthly security patches. This ROM stands out from the competition in that it includes both the stock camera apps as well as Gcam. In addition to that, it features a Gaming mode, a toggle for the visibility of the status bar, and a quick settings tile.

5. Corvus OS

Download the Corvus OS ROM if you are interested in having the best custom ROM for gaming, particularly PUBG. This ROM has many features, the majority of which are centred on gaming, and it was inspired by Dirty Unicorns. Ryzen kernel, Game mode, and Hydra kernel are some of the features offered by the Corvus Operating System. In addition, the heating problems that can occur with your Android device are mitigated by the Corvus OS. Another example of a retarded ROM, this Android gaming ROM comes with a number of other retarded customizations.

The primary goals of the Corvus Operating System are to be stable and compatible with a wide variety of devices. In addition, the Corvus OS comes with a system accent picker, the ability to schedule themes, a font customization option, additional notification features, and a lock screen. In conclusion, we are able to say that Corvus OS is not only the best gaming custom ROM but also a ROM that offers full customization capabilities.

6. DotOS

If you thought CyanogenMod was the most customizable operating system image (ROM) available for Android, you were wrong. The level of customization that can be achieved with DotOS is unparalleled. DotOS is an alternative operating system that might be interesting for users who are looking for something different than what LineageOS provides.

You'll find that DotOS has a UI that's very reminiscent of MIUI, but it comes packed with features that are ideal for day-to-day life. In addition, Dot OS has a user interface that is slick, modern, and quick without compromising the system's stability or battery life. In addition, the appearance of DotOS is comparable to that of many other custom ROMs. However, after using it for a week, you'll realize the full potential it possesses.

7. Havoc-OS

If you are looking for a ROM that has features that are uncomplicated and unobtrusive, Havoc-OS is the ideal choice for your device. This Android firmware provides a user interface that is uncluttered, well-organized, and can be easily customized. Havoc-OS is best known for its overall performance, which can be achieved without the use of a specialized kernel. In addition, give it a shot if you want an experience similar to that of Google Pixel that does not limit your ability to customize settings. HavosOS is an Android operating system that supports more than 160 different devices and is based on AOSP. In addition to this, the community of developers is getting access to an increasing number of new smartphones and tablets. Users are most excited about the new and improved Material design 2.0, which is a feature that is both unique and special.

8. AOSP Extended

If you use LineageOS or Paranoid Android, you could run into some problems, but if you use AOSP Extended ROM, you won't have a single problem to worry about. Custom ROM known as AEX or AOSP Extended is directly derived from AOSP and features a comprehensive list of extensions at the very top. Because of its reliability, AEX ROM has been downloaded over 1.2 million times all over the world.

You get the stock Android experience when you use AOSP Extended, along with support for a reasonable number of different devices. In addition, this firmware update includes a navigation bar that can be customized, Android gestures, various system tweaks, and so on. In addition to that, you can also get official over-the-air updates on a regular basis.

9. Arrow OS

Arrow OS project is among the most lightweight and feature-rich custom ROMs that are currently available on the market. In addition, the code is derived from AOSP, but it incorporates a number of helpful improvements. Arrow OS's primary objective is to maintain a user interface that is uncluttered, uncluttered, and simple. Arrow OS is an excellent choice for you if you are interested in obtaining a bespoke operating system that contains only the most essential features.

In addition, the developers have made a few adjustments in order to deliver a more fluid performance while simultaneously improving the battery life. As a consequence, a lightweight custom ROM was produced, which, in comparison to stock Android, possesses significantly improved performance and reliability.

10. Bliss ROM

Bliss ROM may be relatively new to the Android ecosystem, but it still holds a great deal of untapped potential. The fact that Bliss can be used on Android smartphones and tablets in addition to Windows devices such as the Surface Pro is the app's primary selling point. In addition, Bliss provides a personalised launcher in addition to a desktop mode, both of which elevate the overall experience to a higher level.

There is a possibility that not all of you will take a liking to the new system navigation gesture that Bliss ROM provides. Nevertheless, we are unable to dispute the fact that we require a variety of Android skins in order to push the envelope of user interface design. In addition to that, Bliss enhances the overall visual quality of any and all Android devices. Because of this, Bliss is distinct and exceptional in its own right.

11. Resurrection Remix

There is no question that Resurrection Remix is among the most well-known and feature-rich apps available for use within the Android ecosystem. The fan base for its theme collection is distinct from the overall fan base. Lineage OS, Paranoid Android, Slim, and AOKP are all represented in the feature sets that are available through Resurrection Remix. In addition, in comparison to other custom ROMs, Remix offers improved performance as well as increased personalization options, and longer battery life.

The most recent software update includes built-in support for call screening, live captioning, multi-camera API support, bubble functionality, support for 5G networks, enhanced call quality, smart reply capabilities, and support for direct audio streaming. In addition, Resurrection Remix comes with a settings panel, from which you can alter the lock screen interface, as well as the themes and animations that are used. If you are interested in trying something different, you should give Resurrection Remix ROM a shot.

12. Descendant OS

The Descendant Operating System (OS) was first made available to users as a Generic System Image (GSI), and it has since become well-known for the innovative features it offers in addition to the traditional Android experience. A dependable keyguard is one of its many features, along with an overhauled user interface, a lock screen with one less page, user-defined ringtones, and an emergency mode. Descendant OS additionally incorporates Lineage OS's new custom dialer, quick settings tiles, and privacy guard into its operating system.

In addition, the Descendant Health feature is able to provide you with instant notifications regarding your health in order to keep you up to date. The battery life of your phone will be improved as a result of Descendant's ability to immediately notify you if the screen has been continuously on for more than an hour. When using the phone disrupts your sleep, you also have the option of receiving notifications with helpful hints.

13. Derpfest OS

This is the very first custom ROM that some newcomers have built, and it incorporates all of the top features. The AOSiP for the OnePlus 5T, which was based on Android 9.0 Pie, was where it all began. Because it was such a huge success, the community decided to build DerpFest OS, which redefined what it meant to customize the software. The Lawnchair third-party launcher is used to initiate the boot process of the DerpfestOS ROM.

Using this launcher, which offers a wide range of customization options, you can change the user interface of your home screen. You have complete control over every aspect of the theme, including the icon packs, grid style, and color scheme. In addition to that, This DerpfestOS comes with a brand new blur effect for the background. The beautiful blur effect that gives a premium look and feels is something you'll notice as soon as you launch the notification center on your device.

14. crDroid

crDroid was initially made available for the Xiaomi Poco F1 smartphone, which operates on the Android 10 operating system. It was instantly successful in attracting the attention of users. After that, crDroid was made available for a variety of additional OEMs. The primary objective of crDroid is to provide enhanced performance and reliability compared to the stock version of Android without sacrificing any of the most desirable features.

In spite of the fact that it is visually quite comparable to the LineageOS ROM, it comes packed with a greater number of impressive additions. A few of the features that come with crDroid are the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) Camera, a toggle for visualization, face auto-unlock, Arm-v8a optimizations, an Optimus drunk upstream stable kernel, a fingerprint authentication vibration toggle, and a crDroid File Manager that is based on the Amaze file manager.

The overview window of crDroid displays the most recently used and most frequently accessed apps, just like the Google Pixel device. The Android gesture navigation system, recent in the overview menu, and system accent color-changing options are the features that have generated the most buzz among users. In addition to that, it has a gesture replacement feature built into the navigation panel. You can utilize this feature to re-create the old-fashioned navigation bar with three buttons.

15. Project Sakura

Project Sakura is a feature-rich custom operating system (ROM) that is based on LineageOS. If you have a Samsung Galaxy phone that is powered by Exynos, you might already have some idea of how challenging it is to unlock the device's bootloader. There is some encouraging information for users of Exynos variants. Unlocking the bootloader and flashing Project Sakura is a simple process, and it will allow you to use the newest version of the Android operating system.

Project Sakura is compatible with devices manufactured by Asus, LeEco, Lenovo, Meizu, Moto, OnePlus, Realme, and Xiaomi in addition to Samsung. By installing Project Sakura, you will be provided with a stock Android experience that is uncluttered, straightforward, and uncluttered. In addition, this specialized firmware provides a wide variety of visual enhancements, including themes, screen-locking animations, the Magisk module, icons, and fonts.

16. RevengeOS

For users who are interested in experiencing Paranoid Android and AOSP-based goodies, Revenge OS is the best option. Yes, Revenge OS offers all of these features without requiring you to root your Android device. In addition, Revenge OS provides a user-friendly experience that is quick and stable, with a minimum of personalization options. The fact that the ROM comes with a non-Gapps version indicates that you will need to separately flash the Google Apps package file.

The remarkable aspect of Revenge OS is that it enables users to create their own themes by incorporating a brand-new theme engine into the operating system itself. In addition to this, it conserves a significant amount of energy and does not have poor battery life. It would appear that the developers are plotting some sort of retaliation against the competitors who create custom ROMs. This is the inspiration behind the name RevengeOS. It's possible that it is, but we can never be sure.

17. OmniROM

Omni ROM was developed by a number of former CyanogenMod developers. There isn't much to say about the Omni Custom ROM, other than the fact that it won't let you down. There is nothing quite like Omni ROM in terms of its legacy, compatibility, experience, and stability.

You can get features such as an app-switcher called OmniSwitch, an active display, a Flick2Wake button, an OmniJaws weather widget app, and an open delta update utility if you use Omni ROM. In addition, you are able to modify the settings of the notification drawer by enabling a background image and configuring shortcuts for a particular period of time. In addition, you only need one click to create shortcuts and icons with a resolution of 10 by 10 pixels.

18. Superior OS

If you are looking for the most powerful custom ROM for PUBG and COD, then Superior OS is the right choice for you. If you look around in the Android ecosystem, you will have a difficult time finding the Superior OS ROM. This is due to the fact that Superior OS is a one-of-a-kind and straightforward ROM that was developed for a select number of Samsung and Xiaomi devices.

In addition to that, it is one of the Android custom ROMs that have the highest level of reliability among all of them. This ROM gives you the ability to modify the themes on your device as well as filter out notifications. Even though it doesn't have a lot of features, this operating system allows you to make changes to your device's settings that you never would have thought possible before.

19. Syberia OS

Syberia OS is an option to take into consideration for users who adore stock Android but also desire additional features on top of it. Built on top of AOSP and CAF, Syberia OS includes almost everything a user could want in a custom operating system for their mobile device. Syberia OS is dependable and free of lagging problems, in spite of the many features it provides. With the Syberia Operating System, you won't have to worry about experiencing any stuttering or lag at all.

When it comes to customizations, Syberia OS provides more leeway to adjust pretty much everything in the ROM to one's liking. Additionally, weekly over-the-air updates, Wakelock and alarm blockers, Custom switch tiles, Screen animations, and Volume key music control are all available with Syberia OS.

Best Custom ROM for Android: Final Verdict

When it comes to the kind of experience you want to have on your Android phone, there is no doubt that installing a custom operating system (ROM) makes all the difference. The use of a custom operating system (ROM) is your best bet if you want to keep using an older Android device. While it is common knowledge that the custom ROM will never be as stable as the stock ROM, it is also common knowledge that flashing the custom ROM will grant you a significant amount of control over your mobile device.

Best Custom Roms for Android