What is a custom ROM and what are the differences? We explain how custom ROMs work, what the difference is between a stable build and a nightly build, and a stock ROM and AOSP ROM. We also explain the advantages and disadvantages of a custom ROM - and whether the installation is still worthwhile.
A custom ROM is an alternative Android operating system that is usually developed by a volunteer team. The basis is either the freely accessible source code from Android or the original firmware of the specific smartphone or tablet. The custom ROM is therefore not an extension of the pre-installed system, but replaces it completely.
Advantages of a custom ROM
Custom ROMs follow various approaches: Some systems see themselves as a lean alternative to the manufacturer's pre-installed firmware, which is often equipped with a lot of unnecessary features. The advantage here is more free storage space and a more smoothly running system. Many ROMs also offer numerous modifications. For example, the user interface can be adapted, alternative operating menus can be used and many other profound system changes can be made.
But users who don't want to mod their smartphone should also think about a custom ROM. In particular, the manufacturers do not maintain older and cheaper devices or only maintain them for a short period of time. These smartphones and tablets do not receive Android innovations and important system patches that, for example, close security gaps. The custom ROM developers, on the other hand, keep their systems up to date for the respective device for a long time.
Disadvantages of a custom ROM
A custom ROM does not result in a direct disadvantage for the user. However, the device loses its warranty. In addition, only ROMs may be used that have been explicitly developed for the device. Root access does not necessarily require a custom ROM. However, an unlocked smartphone is often part of the custom ROM package. You can read about the advantages and disadvantages of rooting in our article “Rooting Android”.
ROM versions: what is stable build and nightly build?
Some custom ROMs such as CyanogenMod are available in several different versions, but the most important are the stable build and the nightly build. The stable build is a finished version suitable for daily use that contains no bugs or at least no noteworthy bugs. In a nightly build, on the other hand, you will find the latest features, but you have to expect some errors. “Nightlies” are updated daily.
ROM variants: AOSP and Stock
When choosing a custom ROM, you have to choose between AOSP and Stock. AOSP stands for “Android Open Source Project” and is the freely accessible Android source code. A custom ROM based on the stock firmware, on the other hand, means that the respective original system of the device has been modified. In addition to these two variants, there is also the vanilla Android. This means the original ROM from Google.
Install custom ROM
As already mentioned, installing a custom ROM requires root access. Usually the ROM is flashed via a custom recovery. To do this, first load the ROM as a zip archive onto your device and start the recovery. Then reset the smartphone to the factory settings within the recovery (full wipe) and then select an entry such as “install from .zip”. Before doing this, however, you should create a system backup in the recovery. How to set up and use the Custom-Recovery TWRP, read in this workshop .
Note: Rooting and installing custom ROMs can void your smartphone or tablet's warranty and, in the worst case, destroy the device. Therefore, strictly adhere to the respective instructions. You carry out all mods and hacks at your own risk.
Report
