When it comes to customizing your Android experience, choosing the right custom operating system (OS) significantly impacts your device’s performance, privacy, and usability. Among the leading contenders in the custom ROM landscape are LineageOS and GrapheneOS. Both offer unique advantages, but they cater to different user needs. This updated guide for 2025 compares LineageOS and GrapheneOS based on key evaluation criteria to help you determine which OS is best for you.
Learn more about using a degoogled phone.
Evaluation Criteria
This comparison evaluates both OSes using the following criteria:
- Security and Privacy
- Performance and Stability
- Device Support and Compatibility
- User Interface and Customization
- App Compatibility and Ecosystem
- Community and Support
- Installation and Usability
Security and Privacy
GrapheneOS: GrapheneOS remains the gold standard in Android security for 2025. Its privacy-by-design approach includes:
- Enhanced sandboxing
- A hardened memory allocator
- Stronger permissions management
According to TechRadar, GrapheneOS is unmatched in its ability to protect user data.
LineageOS: LineageOS offers improved security over stock Android, including Secure Boot and SELinux. However, it allows users to install Google Play Services, which could introduce vulnerabilities. A University of Cambridge study notes that the security of custom ROMs like LineageOS often depends on the user’s configuration choices.
Winner: GrapheneOS
Performance and Stability
GrapheneOS: GrapheneOS offers a lean, efficient OS optimized for supported devices. Reviews from XDA Developers consistently praise its performance and stability, particularly on Google Pixel devices.
LineageOS: LineageOS breathes new life into older devices, often outperforming stock Android due to its streamlined footprint. Geekbench results show performance gains on many devices. However, stability can vary depending on device compatibility and user modifications.
Winner: Tie (GrapheneOS for supported devices; LineageOS for broader device support)
Device Support and Compatibility
GrapheneOS: GrapheneOS supports only Google Pixel devices, ensuring precise optimization. As of 2025, it officially supports Pixel 6, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 8, 8a, 8 Pro, 9, and 9 Pro devices, along with the Pixel Fold and Tablet (source).
LineageOS: LineageOS supports over 200 devices, ranging from flagship models to lesser-known brands. According to the LineageOS stats, it is installed on over 1.5 million devices globally.
Winner: LineageOS
User Interface and Customization
GrapheneOS: GrapheneOS adopts a minimalistic approach, resembling stock Android with limited customization. Its simplicity is a feature for those prioritizing security, but it may not satisfy users seeking personalization.
LineageOS: LineageOS excels in customization, allowing users to tweak nearly every aspect of the interface. From themes to navigation controls, the LineageOS Theme Engine offers extensive options for Android enthusiasts.
Winner: LineageOS
App Compatibility and Ecosystem
GrapheneOS: GrapheneOS emphasizes security over compatibility, making some mainstream apps unavailable or limited without Google Play Services. Users can access apps via the Aurora Store, though certain apps (e.g., Google Maps) may not work optimally.
LineageOS: LineageOS supports Google Play Services and microG, providing broad app compatibility without sacrificing privacy entirely.
Winner: LineageOS
Community and Support
GrapheneOS: The GrapheneOS community is small but dedicated, with a focus on privacy and security. The official documentation is thorough, and forums like r/GrapheneOS serve as valuable resources.
LineageOS: LineageOS boasts a large, active community and extensive documentation. Forums like XDA Developers provide abundant resources, making it easy for users to find support and share tips.
Winner: LineageOS
Installation and Usability
GrapheneOS: Installing GrapheneOS requires technical knowledge, but the official installation guide provides detailed steps. Once installed, the OS is straightforward to use for security-conscious users.
LineageOS: LineageOS also has a complex installation process but benefits from a wealth of community resources. The official guide and tools like TWRP make installation manageable for tech-savvy users.
Winner: LineageOS
Recommendation
The choice between LineageOS and GrapheneOS comes down to your priorities:
- Choose GrapheneOS if you value unparalleled privacy and security, particularly if you own a Google Pixel device.
- Opt for LineageOS if you seek a balance between customization, app compatibility, and device support.
Summary
| Criteria | LineageOS | GrapheneOS |
|---|---|---|
| Security and Privacy | Good, with optional Google services | Excellent, privacy-focused and hardened |
| Performance and Stability | Great, varies by device | High performance, very stable |
| Device Support and Compatibility | Supports over 200 devices | Limited to Google Pixel devices |
| User Interface and Customization | Highly customizable | Minimalistic, limited customization |
| App Compatibility and Ecosystem | Broad, optional Google services | Strict app security, limited compatibility |
| Community and Support | Large, active community | Smaller, focused community |
| Installation and Usability | Challenging but well-supported | Challenging, detailed guides available |
My Setup
I use LineageOS on a refurbished Google Pixel 3A as my “naughty phone,” configured with Protonmail, Signal, Telegram, and cryptocurrency wallets. I also run a Monero node and execute Python scripts.
My “normal phone” is a Google Pixel 4A, allowing me to test a transition to a fully degoogled, privacy-first lifestyle.
Buy a refurbished Google Pixel 3A on Amazon.
For more on degoogled phones, read this post.
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