The Best Custom ROMs for Android You Can Install 2025.

An Android custom ROM is a modified version of the Android operating system that is developed by third-party developers or communities, rather than the official Android releases from Google or device manufacturers. These custom ROMs are typically designed to offer extra features, improve performance, or provide a different user interface compared to the stock Android OS.

Some reasons why users might choose to install a custom ROM include:

1. New Features: Custom ROMs can introduce new functionality that isn't available in the stock Android version. For example, features like advanced customization options, better multitasking, or enhanced privacy settings.

2. Performance: Some custom ROMs are optimized for better speed, battery life, or overall system performance.

3. Updates: Custom ROMs often allow users to install newer versions of Android even if their device manufacturer no longer provides official updates for the phone.

4. Customization: Many custom ROMs come with extensive customization options, such as custom themes, UI tweaks, and control over system settings that are not present in the stock Android experience.

5. Rooting and Control: Installing a custom ROM often goes hand-in-hand with "rooting" the device (gaining privileged control), which can allow users to access deeper system settings and install apps that require root permissions.

However, installing a custom ROM can void warranties, and it requires technical knowledge since the process may involve unlocking the bootloader and flashing the new software. Additionally, there's a risk of bricking the device (rendering it unusable) if something goes wrong during the installation process.

There are several custom ROMs for Android that stand out for their performance, features, and user customization options.

Here's a list of some of the best ones:

​1. LineageOS

• Overview: One of the most popular custom ROMs, LineageOS is known for its stability and frequent updates. It offers a clean, stock Android experience with additional customization options.

• Pros:

  • Frequent security updates.

  • Wide device support.

  • Open-source with a focus on privacy.

• Cons:

  • Not as feature-rich as other ROMs out of the box, but customizable with apps.

2. Pixel Experience

• Overview: Pixel Experience brings Google's Pixel devices' software experience to other devices. It's known for offering the same features and design that you get with Google's Pixel phones.

• Pros:

  • Clean, stock Android with Pixel features (e.g., Google Assistant, exclusive wallpapers).

  • Stable and optimized.

• Cons:

  • Limited customization compared to others.

3. CrDroid

• Overview: CrDroid is designed to increase performance and reliability while offering a smooth user experience. It adds several extra features while keeping the Android experience close to stock.

• Pros:

  • Customizable and feature-rich.

  • Great for those who want stock-like performance with extras.

• Cons:

  • Some devices may not be supported as quickly.

4. Paranoid Android

• Overview: Paranoid Android brings a balance between performance and features, and it's known for its unique features like “Pie controls” and “Ambient Display.”

• Pros:

  • Great performance and aesthetics.

  • Features like privacy guard and gestures.

• Cons:

  • Slightly slower updates compared to other ROMs.

5. AOSP Extended

• Overview: AOSP Extended is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) and comes with many useful features like a custom notification panel, theme options, and expanded quick settings.

• Pros:

  • Feature-packed, including several customization options.

  • Great stability and performance.

• Cons:

  • Not as clean as stock Android, but still very smooth.

6. Resurrection Remix

• Overview: Resurrection Remix is a feature-heavy ROM that combines elements from other ROMs like LineageOS, Paranoid Android, and others, providing a vast array of customization options.

• Pros:

  • Highly customizable with plenty of features.

  • Great performance.

• Cons:

  • Might be too complex for users looking for a simple experience.

7. SlimROMs

• Overview: SlimROMs focus on providing a lightweight and efficient version of Android without sacrificing too many features. It's designed to optimize performance.

• Pros:

  • Clean, lightweight experience.

  • Improved performance and battery life.

• Cons:

  • Fewer features than other ROMs.

8. MIUI (Custom version)

• Overview: MIUI is a heavily customized version of Android, originally created by Xiaomi. It's packed with features, including a unique UI, additional apps, and an array of customization options.

• Pros:

  • Feature-rich.

  • Fast and responsive.

• Cons:

  • Bloatware from Xiaomi’s ecosystem.

  • Not as close to stock Android as other ROMs.

9. DotOS

• Overview: DotOS is known for its clean UI and high level of stability. It offers a good balance of stock Android with enhancements for a more customizable experience.

• Pros:

  • Simple yet elegant.

  • Excellent performance and stability.

• Cons:

  • Some devices may not be supported as quickly.

10. Ubuntu Touch

• Overview: Ubuntu Touch is not based on Android but offers an entirely different, Linux-based experience. It’s great for those looking for an open-source, privacy-focused alternative to Android.

• Pros:

  • Unique and open-source.

  • A fresh approach to the mobile OS.

• Cons:

  • Limited app support compared to Android.