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Root Framework Comparison 2025

Comprehensive analysis of Magisk, KernelSU, and APatch to help you choose the right root solution for your Android device.

Quick Navigation ​

Related Guides:

Quick Comparison Table ​

FeatureMagiskKernelSUAPatch
Best ForMost usersAdvanced usersAlternative solution
DifficultyEasyModerateModerate
Android Support6.0 - 1511+ (GKI 2.0+)10+
Custom Kernel RequiredNoYesNo
Module Ecosystem1000+ modules300+ modules50+ modules
Root HidingGood (DenyList)ExcellentGood
Community SizeLargestGrowingSmall
Active DevelopmentCommunity maintainedVery activeActive
OTA UpdatesManual re-patchSometimes survivesManual re-patch
Setup ComplexityBeginner-friendlyIntermediateIntermediate

Quick Recommendations ​

Choose Magisk if:

  • You are new to rooting
  • You need extensive module support
  • You want maximum device compatibility
  • You prefer easy installation and management

Choose KernelSU if:

  • You use custom ROM with supported kernel
  • Security and isolation are priorities
  • You want better root detection evasion
  • You're comfortable with advanced procedures

Choose APatch if:

  • Magisk doesn't work on your device
  • You need alternative approach
  • You're willing to work with limited module ecosystem
  • You want to experiment with newer technology

Detailed Framework Analysis ​

Magisk ​

Industry standard systemless root solution

Architecture ​

Magisk modifies the boot image to inject systemless modifications without altering the system partition. Uses Zygisk for process injection and module management.

Advantages ​

  • Largest module ecosystem (1000+ modules)
  • Mature and stable
  • Extensive documentation
  • Best compatibility across devices
  • MagiskHide/DenyList for root hiding
  • Easy module management

Disadvantages ​

  • No longer actively developed by original creator (community maintained)
  • OTA updates require re-patching
  • Some newer devices have boot image restrictions
  • Play Integrity increasingly difficult

Best for: General users, extensive module needs, maximum compatibility

Installation Guide: 📖 Complete Magisk Guide

KernelSU ​

Kernel-level root with enhanced security

Architecture ​

KernelSU implements root at the kernel level rather than userspace. Provides superior isolation and security through kernel module system.

Advantages ​

  • Superior security isolation
  • Better performance (kernel-level operations)
  • Module verification system
  • Active development
  • Growing module ecosystem
  • Built-in app profile system
  • Survives some OTA updates

Disadvantages ​

  • Requires custom kernel with KernelSU support
  • Limited kernel availability for some devices
  • Smaller community than Magisk
  • Some Magisk modules incompatible
  • Setup more complex

Best for: Power users, custom ROM users, security-conscious users, devices with good kernel support

Installation Guide: 📖 Complete KernelSU Guide

APatch ​

Alternative kernel-based patching solution

Architecture ​

APatch uses kernel patching approach to provide systemless root. Hybrid method combining benefits of both Magisk and KernelSU approaches.

Advantages ​

  • Works on devices where Magisk fails
  • Handles complex firmware scenarios
  • Alternative injection methods
  • Systemless implementation
  • Growing adoption

Disadvantages ​

  • Smallest module ecosystem
  • Limited documentation
  • Newer project (less mature)
  • Smaller community
  • Device support varies

Best for: Devices with Magisk incompatibility, Samsung devices (in some cases), users needing alternative approach

Installation Guide: 📖 Complete APatch Guide

Device-Specific Recommendations ​

Google Pixel Devices ​

Model SeriesRecommendedAlternativeReasonNotes
Pixel 6/7/8/9/10MagiskKernelSUMost stable, best community supportRequires custom kernel for KernelSU
Pixel 5 and olderMagiskKernelSUBoth work well, Magisk simplerGood support for both methods

Samsung Galaxy Devices ​

Model SeriesRecommendedAlternativeReasonImportant Notes
Galaxy S20-S24MagiskAPatchMost compatibleKnox trips permanently (all methods)
Galaxy A/M SeriesMagiskAPatchStandard works bestAPatch for problem devices
S10 and olderMagisk-Mature support, stableWell-established compatibility

KNOX WARNING

Samsung Knox EFUSE trips permanently with bootloader unlock, regardless of root method. This voids warranty forever and disables Samsung Pay, Secure Folder, and Samsung Pass.

Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO Devices ​

ROM TypeRecommendedAlternativeReasonNotes
Stock MIUI/HyperOSMagiskKernelSUBest MIUI compatibilityStandard approach
Custom ROMKernelSUMagiskLeverage custom kernelsBetter performance
China ROMAPatchMagiskHandles firmware complexityAlternative for issues

OnePlus Devices ​

Model SeriesRecommendedAlternativeReasonNotes
OnePlus 11/12MagiskKernelSUBoth work wellChoose based on needs
OnePlus 9 and olderMagiskKernelSUMature device supportEstablished compatibility
Nord SeriesMagisk-Most reliableStandard setup recommended

Nothing Phone ​

ModelRecommendedAlternativeReasonNotes
Phone (1)MagiskKernelSUBoth supported, Magisk easierActive community support
Phone (2)MagiskKernelSUBoth supported, Magisk easierGrowing development

Motorola Devices ​

Model SeriesRecommendedAlternativeReasonNotes
Edge SeriesMagiskAPatchStandard setup works reliablyGood compatibility
G SeriesMagisk-Budget-friendly, straightforwardSimple rooting process

Technical Comparison ​

Root Permission Management ​

AspectMagiskKernelSUAPatch
Permission ModelApp-basedProfile-basedApp-based
Granular ControlYesAdvancedBasic
UID IsolationLimitedStrongLimited
Namespace IsolationNoYesNo
Security LevelGoodExcellentGood

Winner: KernelSU for advanced security model

Module System ​

AspectMagiskKernelSUAPatch
Total Modules1000+300+50+
Magisk CompatibilityNative~80%~60%
Installation MethodSimple GUISimple GUISimple GUI
Update SystemBuilt-inBuilt-inManual
Module RepositoriesMultipleGrowingLimited
Quality ControlCommunityCommunityLimited

Winner: Magisk for extensive ecosystem

Root Detection Evasion ​

FeatureMagiskKernelSUAPatch
DenyListYesYesYes
Zygisk SupportYesPartialLimited
Process HidingAdvancedExcellentGood
Property HidingYesYesPartial
UmountYesYesYes
Play IntegrityDifficultDifficultDifficult
Banking AppsHit or missBetter successHit or miss

Winner: KernelSU for better evasion capabilities

Note: All methods struggle with modern Play Integrity attestation.

Migration Between Frameworks ​

Migrating from Magisk to KernelSU ​

Migration time: 1-2 hours

Click to expand detailed steps

Requirements:

  • Device with KernelSU-supported custom kernel
  • Full backup of data and apps
  • TWRP or fastboot access

Steps:

  1. Backup everything

    bash
    # Using ADB
adb backup -apk -shared -all -system

  2. List installed Magisk modules

    • Screenshot your module list
    • Note which are critical
    • Check KernelSU compatibility

  3. Uninstall Magisk

    • Open Magisk Manager
    • Tap "Uninstall" → "Complete Uninstall"
    • Reboot to recovery if needed
    • Flash stock boot image

  4. Install KernelSU kernel

    • Download compatible kernel
    • Boot to fastboot mode
    • Flash kernel:
      bash
      fastboot flash boot kernelsu-boot.img

  5. Install KernelSU Manager

    • Download latest APK
    • Install and grant permissions
    • Verify root access

  6. Reinstall compatible modules

    • Check each module's KernelSU compatibility
    • Install one at a time
    • Test after each installation

  7. Configure root permissions

    • Set up app profiles
    • Configure hiding if needed
    • Test critical apps

Migrating from Magisk to APatch ​

Time Required: 30-60 minutes

Click to expand detailed steps

Preparation:

  1. Full device backup
  2. Download APatch manager and boot image
  3. Note installed modules

Migration Steps:

  1. Backup system:

    • Use TWRP or custom recovery
    • Backup boot, data partitions

  2. Remove Magisk:

    • Complete uninstall via Magisk Manager
    • Restore stock boot image if needed

  3. Install APatch:

    • Flash APatch-patched boot image
    • Install APatch Manager app
    • Grant root permissions

  4. Verify functionality:

    • Test root access
    • Install essential modules
    • Test critical apps

KernelSU to Magisk Migration ​

Time Required: 30-60 minutes

Click to expand detailed steps

Steps:

  1. Backup data

  2. Remove KernelSU:

    • Flash stock boot image or ROM boot image

  3. Install Magisk:

    • Patch boot image with Magisk
    • Flash patched boot image
    • Install Magisk Manager

  4. Restore modules:

    • Reinstall from Magisk repository
    • Most KernelSU modules should work

Play Integrity Status (2025) ​

Current situation for all three methods:

Integrity LevelMagiskKernelSUAPatchNotes
BasicPass with tricksPass with tricksPass with tricksRequires modules
DeviceDifficultDifficultDifficultRequires spoofing
StrongVery difficultVery difficultVery difficultNearly impossible

Required Additional Tools ​

All methods need supplementary modules:

  • Shamiko (Magisk-specific)
  • SUSFS
  • Tricky Store
  • Device fingerprint spoofing

Apps with Known Detection ​

Strict Detection:

  • Google Wallet
  • Most banking apps
  • Some payment apps

Moderate Detection:

  • Netflix
  • Pokemon GO
  • Some games with anti-cheat

Variable Detection:

  • Regional banking apps
  • Corporate security apps
  • DRM-protected apps

CAUTION

Root detection and Play Integrity are evolving. Check community forums for latest working solutions before rooting if you depend on these apps.

Decision Guide ​

Flowchart ​

START
  |
  v
Do you need extensive module support?
  |
  +-- Yes --> MAGISK
  |
  +-- No
      |
      v
  Is custom kernel available for your device?
      |
      +-- Yes --> Do you want best security/hiding?
      |              |
      |              +-- Yes --> KERNELSU
      |              |
      |              +-- No --> MAGISK
      |
      +-- No --> Did Magisk fail on your device?
                    |
                    +-- Yes --> APATCH
                    |
                    +-- No --> MAGISK

Frequently Asked Questions ​

Can I switch between root methods?

Yes. Uninstall current method, flash stock boot image, then install new method. Always backup first.

Which method has best long-term support?

Magisk has most mature ecosystem. KernelSU development very active. Both good long-term choices.

Do all modules work on all methods?

No. Magisk modules may not work on KernelSU/APatch. Check compatibility before installing.

Which method is safest?

All safe when installed correctly. KernelSU offers better security isolation architecturally.

Can I use multiple methods simultaneously?

No. Only one root method can be active at a time. Will cause conflicts.

Which has better battery life?

All have negligible battery impact. Differences are minimal in real-world usage.

What about SafetyNet?

SafetyNet deprecated, replaced by Play Integrity. All methods struggle equally with new system.

Will rooting break my device?

Not if done correctly. Follow guides carefully, use correct files, maintain backups.

Community Resources ​

Magisk:

KernelSU:

APatch:

General Root Support:

Final Recommendations ​

For Most Users ​

Start with Magisk. It offers the best balance of:

  • Feature completeness
  • Ease of use
  • Module availability
  • Community support
  • Device compatibility

For Advanced Users ​

Consider KernelSU if:

  • You use custom ROM
  • Kernel support available
  • You want better security
  • Root hiding is critical

For Problem Cases ​

Try APatch when:

  • Magisk installation fails
  • Device has compatibility issues
  • You need alternative approach
  • You want to experiment

General Advice ​

  1. Research your specific device first
  2. Check XDA for device-specific recommendations
  3. Read recent experiences from other users
  4. Maintain good backups
  5. Be prepared to troubleshoot

Next Steps ​

Ready to root?

  1. Choose your method based on this comparison
  2. Follow the appropriate installation guide:
  3. Install essential apps: Root Apps Collection
  4. Join community for support

Still unsure?

Remember: The "best" method depends on your specific device, needs, and comfort level. Start with Magisk for safest introduction to rooting.