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Rooting isn't as popular as it used to be, but there's still a vibrant community of modders involved in launching new ROMs. If you're just getting started or are looking to delve back into the world of modding, these are the devices you need to consider.
Staff pick
OnePlus 6T
The OnePlus 6T shares much of the same internal hardware as its predecessor, sporting a smaller waterdrop notch and introducing an in-display fingerprint sensor. The hardware on offer makes it one of the fastest phones in the market today, and it's easy to recommend the 6T if you're interested in tinkering with custom ROMs.
Upgrade pick
Google Pixel 3
Whether you prefer the Pixel's size or just want that dazzling camera, it's a great alternative to the OnePlus 6T that won't cost you too much more. Google makes it incredibly easy to unlock the Pixel 3's bootloader, and there's a healthy modding community to help you flash the latest build of LineageOS or even set up an all-in-one flashing tool.
The flagship option
Samsung Galaxy Note 9
Samsung makes great phones, but it isn't the fastest at rolling out updates. Combine that with a software skin that not everybody loves, and you get a community dedicated to launching ROMs that emulate a stock Android feel for one of the best phones on the market. Just make sure to grab the Exynos variant — you won't find the same community support for the Snapdragon model sold in the U.S.
Budget Option
Pocophone F1
The Pocophone F1 is built on the same ideals as the OnePlus 6. You get fantastic hardware for not a whole lot of money, and there's an active community of people rolling out custom ROMs for the device.
The Bottom Line
Rooting your phone gives you finer control when it comes to making your phone truly yours. You get the ability to install frameworks like Xposed — which give you more customization options — and there really is no end to the number of things you can tweak on your device.
The OnePlus 6T is the best device for getting started as there's already a wide selection of ROMs available for the device, and should you break anything, you won't lose out on the warranty.
If you are looking to upgrade, the Google Pixel 3 is a good alternative. It's easy to unlock and there's a healthy modding community that make this a great choice. As manufacturers tighten the security of their phones, finding models that allow rooting or extensive modification becomes more difficult. There are still phones you can buy that fit the bill, though, and these are the best available right now.
by Harish Jonnalagadda