GrapheneOS vs /e/OS
The two best-known privacy custom ROMs — but they aim at different people. GrapheneOS is a security-hardened, Pixel-only OS for people who want maximum protection. /e/OS is a deGoogled daily driver built to be easy for anyone, on a wide range of phones.
At a glance
GrapheneOS
The most security-hardened Android you can run. It strips Google out by default, tightens the OS in dozens of ways, and lets you optionally install Google Play in a locked-down sandbox if an app needs it. The catch: it only supports Google Pixel phones, because that's the hardware whose security features it can fully use. Pick it if you own (or will buy) a Pixel and want the strongest privacy and security available.
/e/OS
A complete deGoogled experience designed to be usable by non-technical people. Google services are replaced with MicroG, and it comes with its own app store and an optional cloud (Murena) for mail, contacts and storage. It supports a much broader set of devices than GrapheneOS. Pick it if you want a private, ready-to-use phone without fiddling — and you're not chasing maximum hardening.
So which should you flash?
- Own a Pixel and want the strongest security? GrapheneOS.
- Want an easy, private daily phone on non-Pixel hardware? /e/OS.
- Not very technical? /e/OS is the gentler landing.
Check what your phone supports
GrapheneOS is Pixel-only, so this often decides it for you. Search your phone to see whether GrapheneOS and /e/OS support it.
New to this? Read how to deGoogle your phone and the glossary.