The Android developer community, renowned for its vastness, excels particularly in crafting custom ROMs or personalized Android builds. A custom ROM constitutes a post-market firmware iteration grounded in the Android source code issued by Google. If you’re contemplating installing a custom ROM on your device but feel bewildered about the plethora of options, here are our top selections for the 12 best custom ROMs for Android in 2024.
1. Pixel Experience
Pixel Experience stands out as the paramount custom ROM for Android presently, attributed to three pivotal factors: extensive device compatibility, incorporation of Pixel functionalities into non-Pixel devices, native GCam support, and an array of additional features. Moreover, its unparalleled stability surpasses that of all other ROMs we’ve tested.
Third, it boasts remarkable stability among all the ROMs I’ve tested over the years. Its main developer, Henrique Pereira, doesn’t rush to port new Android versions to all devices.
Instead, Pereira selects a popular, developer-centric device and establishes a base. Subsequently, all changes are published to GitHub for other maintainers to collaborate on. Additionally, Pixel Experience boasts maintainers worldwide who diligently address bugs around the clock.
In essence, if you prioritize stability and desire features akin to Pixel devices, Pixel Experience stands as the top custom ROM for Android, without question. Keep in mind, while you may not receive the latest Android build immediately, you’re guaranteed a stable, hassle-free experience.
2. LineageOS
When people hear the word “custom ROM,” LineageOS is probably the first thing that comes to mind. LineageOS is CyanogenMod. Back in fall 2016, Cyanogen announced discontinuation of development and shut the project’s infrastructure. Since then, the developer community has kept the project alive, renaming it LineageOS.
Built on Google’s AOSP code with numerous additions, LineageOS works as a standalone ROM and serves as a base for many other custom ROMs. It boasts the most extensive developer team and officially supports over 190 devices. The ROM includes basic but useful features such as customizing the status bar, theme customization, navbar editing, and more.
LineageOS is basic yet stable. Many use it as a canvas for themes and mods. It excels in privacy and security for custom ROMs. The development team has swiftly brought Android 14, now available for numerous devices.
3. Paranoid Android
Recently, the beloved Paranoid Android was revived. This OG custom ROM is among the most acclaimed. The team has begun rolling out Android 14 Beta builds, focusing on a polished experience. Paranoid opts for simplicity, promising a smooth user experience.
Starting with a revamped quick settings menu, support for gestures, and a few options for power users, Paranoid Android stands out. A significant milestone for the team was when Google integrated its then-known ambient mode “Peek” into AOSP, solidifying its impact.
While Paranoid Android boasts compatibility with numerous devices, updates for most have stalled since July 2023. Development remains active for many Xiaomi models, though primarily for newer ones. The latest iteration, Uvite, based on Android 14, is currently accessible for select Android devices.
4. GrapheneOS
GrapheneOS and CalyxOS share similar agendas, but their approach to running Google apps differs. Unlike CalyxOS, GrapheneOS utilizes Sandboxing, essentially emulating and isolating apps from the device.
Similar to CalyxOS, GrapheneOS is exclusive to Pixel devices. It closely resembles AOSP and lacks extensive customization options, catering primarily to users seeking independence from Google.
5. Evolution X
Evolution X is the Resurrection Remix from yesteryear. It offers a plethora of customization features while maintaining stability. Evolution X merges code snippets into one project, providing a long list of features for various devices. Updates may be slightly slower, but they are still delivered regularly.
Unlike Paranoid Android, which has just started offering Android 14 builds, Evolution X already supports Android 14 on many old and new devices. Regarding customization, Evolution X provides extensive options, allowing users to customize every detail from the status bar to the home screen and beyond, solidifying its position as one of the most customizable AOSP ROMs.
6. Project Elixir
For the finest Android 14 custom ROM, explore Project Elixir. It’s an elegant AOSP ROM close to stock Android, featuring Pixel attributes and customizable options. Essense, based on Substratum, provides a unique lock screen experience.
Furthermore, it delivers timely updates and regular bug fixes. It supports a wide range of devices, including Xiaomi, OnePlus, Nokia, and Nothing. Project Elixir stands out as one of the top Android 14 custom ROMs available.
7. PixelOS
PixelOS offers a Pixel-like user interface with added enhancements, improvements, and stability. It prioritizes essential utilities over excessive features found in other AOSP ROMs, ensuring a stable experience. Based on AOSP, PixelOS receives Android 14 updates from its developers.
Available for Realme, Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus, Asus, and more, PixelOS regularly updates with new builds and security patches. Its design impresses, making it a compelling choice for those eager to flash Android 14. Similar to PixelPlusUI and PixysOS, PixelOS boasts its unique feature set.
8. crDroid
Imagine using your device’s stock ROM, but with subtle tweaks that let you customize it without sacrificing stability. That’s precisely what crDroid offers. With a strong following among stock Android enthusiasts, crDroid has established itself over time. Similar to AOSP Extended, it boasts an active development team and wide support for older devices.
Delivering the same AOSP experience found in Google’s lineup, crDroid enhances it with thoroughly tested features. Built on the foundation of LineageOS, crDroid boasts outstanding performance and battery life. Essentially, it’s like LineageOS but with additional features and optimizations. Notably, the list of supported devices is extensive, encompassing both new and older models.
9. Havoc OS
Defining Havoc-OS requires more than a couple of words. Initially, it may seem similar to other custom ROMs, but with time, its true beauty emerges. Havoc-OS stands out as one of the first ROMs to implement numerous features, reminiscent of Resurrection Remix and Paranoid Android.
Havoc-OS offers extensive mods for the status bar, buttons, lights, gestures, and various configurations. Despite occasional stability issues, it boasts maximum customizability. If you seek a blend of Resurrection Remix and the latest Android version, Havoc-OS is the ideal choice.
10. Bliss ROM
Bliss ROM, a novel custom ROM in the Android ecosystem, harbors immense potential. It not only caters to smartphones but also extends its reach to tablets and Windows devices like Surface Pro. The user experience it offers is commendable, featuring a customized launcher and desktop mode.
While some users may find its unconventional system navigation off-putting, it’s undeniable that diverse skins are imperative for pushing the boundaries of user interface design in custom ROMs.
Besides augmenting customizability and functionality with specific tweaks, Bliss ROM significantly enhances the visual appeal of your device. Its dedicated settings panel, Blissify, empowers users to customize almost every aspect, from themes to animations and the lock screen interface. If you’re seeking a refreshing experience, it’s worth a try.
11. OmniROM
OmniROM, among the oldest custom ROMs listed, began in 2013 amidst the CyanogenMod hype. Continuously updated since then, it offers a stable, AOSP-based ROM with broad device compatibility.
The team supports various devices, including the ROG Phone, Google Pixel, and Redmi Note series. While not the quickest with updates, it delivers reliable performance for daily use.
12. Xiaomi.eu
We understand the excessiveness of MIUI and the necessity to debloat MIUI and other Android devices. Thanks to the Xiaomi.eu project, you can install a custom ROM based on pure MIUI without any bloatware or ads.
For MIUI enthusiasts who prefer not to switch to AOSP, this ROM stands out as one of the finest options for Xiaomi phones. It delivers weekly builds for testers, while stable releases are available to the general users. Moreover, it supports the latest Xiaomi HyperOS based on Android 14. Therefore, owning a Xiaomi device makes installing the Xiaomi.eu ROM a compelling choice.
Reasons to Opt for a Custom ROM
People prefer custom ROMs primarily because manufacturers typically stop providing software support for phones 2-3 years after launch. It’s frustrating to see other devices receiving new features while yours struggles due to this lack of support. Custom ROMs can keep your device alive and updated with the latest Android version.
Another reason for preferring custom ROMs is their modding potential. They don’t contain bloatware and come with default customization features. The options for customization are limitless. However, not all custom ROMs are stable enough for daily use despite their abundance.
Installing a custom ROM necessitates unlocking the bootloader initially and installing a custom recovery like TWRP. Prior to commencing, creating a backup of your Android device is advisable. Additionally, not all ROMs include pre-installed Google Apps, thus requiring flashing a GApps package such as OpenGapps or NikGApps. Beebom’s Android team has thoroughly tested nearly all listed ROMs across various devices and compiled an impartial selection of the best custom ROMs to consider in 2024.
Custom ROMs offer a fresh experience for mobile devices, old or new. While none match the stability of stock ROMs, opting for a custom ROM means trading some stability for a plethora of features. After years of testing, users continually switch between ROMs in search of the optimal one. What’s your preferred custom ROM? Share in the comments below.
Q. What’s the top Android custom ROM?
For stability, I’d suggest LineageOS, particularly for older devices. Additionally, Pixel Experience and Paranoid Android stand out as excellent Android custom ROMs.
Q. Which custom ROM offers the most stability?
For rock-solid stability, LineageOS stands out as the most stable custom ROM.
Q. Which mobile is best for custom ROM?
Xiaomi devices are usually better supported since unlocking the bootloader doesn’t void the warranty. Additionally, OnePlus, Motorola, Nothing, Realme, and Asus devices typically have a strong custom ROM presence.
Xiaomi devices are usually better supported since unlocking the bootloader doesn’t void the warranty. Additionally, OnePlus, Motorola, Nothing, Realme, and Asus devices typically have a strong custom ROM presence.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
