Installing a custom TWRP recavator on Xiaomi smartphones is the first step to complete freedom of action with firmware. It allows you to install informal ROMs, make full system backups, recover data after crashes, and even bypass some of the limitations of MIUI. However, the process of downloading and installing TWRP requires caution: wrong actions can turn your Redmi or POCO into a “brick.” In this article, we will discuss where and how to safely download TWRP Recovery for your Xiaomi model, how to verify its authenticity and avoid common errors.
It’s important to understand that Xiaomi is actively blocking custom recovery from new devices (especially after 2021), which is due to security policies and the fight against gray firmware. However, for most models, solutions exist — you just need to know where to look for current versions and how to circumvent restrictions. We have compiled proven sources, compatibility tools and step-by-step instructions, taking into account the latest changes in MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS.
Why TWRP Recovery and not the standard MI Recovery?
Xiaomi's stock recovery (MI Recovery) is very limited in functionality, and only allows:
- 🔄 reset the device to factory settings;
- 📥 to update the official information through OTA or fastboot;
- 🔧 Check the integrity of the system without correction).
The TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is a unique resource for:
- 📦 Full backup and partition recovery (boot, system, data, vendor);
- 🔓 Install custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience, ArrowOS, etc.);
- 🛠️ editing system files directly from the phone;
- 🔐 block-bypass FRP (If you forget your Mi Account account);
- ⚡ Install Magisk root rights patches without data loss.
Another key advantage is that TWRP supports touch input, unlike the standard Xiaomi recavator, where the control is carried out by the volume and power buttons, which makes it much easier to work, especially when recovering from serious crashes.
TWRP official website: how to find a version for your model
The first and most reliable source is the official TWRP website, where you can find the verified builds, but there are some nuances:
- Check the exact model of the device. On Xiaomi, you can do this in Settings → About Phone → Model. For example, the Redmi Note 10 Pro may be codenamed sweet or sweetin (for the Indian version).
- Type your code name into the search bar on the device page, and if your model is not available, there is no official support yet.
- Download a file with the.img extension (for example, twrp-3.7.0_12-0-sweet.img). Avoid unofficial versions, they may contain errors.
⚠️ Note: The official website often lacks builds for new Xiaomi models (released less than a year ago), in which case you will have to look for unofficial ports - but this is risky (more on this in the next section).
💡
If your model isn't on the official website, try searching for it by alternative code names, such as the POCO X3 NFC can be hidden under the surya name, and the Mi 11 can be hidden under the venus name. The full list of Xiaomi code names can be found on XiaomiUI.
Unofficial sources: where to download TWRP if it is not on twrp.me
If there is no official assembly, there are two options:
- Telegram channels and forums. The most active communities: 📌 Xiaomi Updates Tracker – Fresh ports are often laid out here TWRP new-model. 📌 XDA Developers – look for your model theme in the Xiaomi section. 📌 Android Dumps – a channel with firmware and recovery for rare devices.
GitHub.
Mauronofrio repository
Xiaomi
Critically, check the reviews of other users in the topic before downloading the unofficial TWRP. Pay attention to the date of the last update - if the build is older than 6 months, it may not work with the latest versions of MIUI.
| Source | Pluses | Cons | Risk of viruses |
|---|---|---|---|
| twrp.me | Official assemblies, time-tested | No support for new models | ❌ No. |
| XDA Developers | Active community, fresh ports | It is difficult to find a relevant topic | ⚠️ Low (check the author's reputation) |
| Telegram channels | Quick updates, support for Russian-speaking users | Possible outdated or unstable builds | ⚠️ Medium (download only from verified sources) |
| GitHub | Open source code, the ability to check changes | Technical knowledge is required for verification | ❌ Not (if the repository is popular) |
⚠️ Attention: Never download TWRP from little-known file sharing sites (such as MediaFire, Mega or Yandex.Disk) unless the link is published on a trusted forum.
Checking the compatibility of TWRP with your firmware
Even if you find a TWRP build for your model, it doesn’t guarantee that it will work. Xiaomi regularly updates partition structure and protection mechanisms, so:
- 📋 Check the version. MIUI. Some assemblies TWRP They only work with specific versions (for example, MIUI 13, but not MIUI You can find the version in Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI.
- 🔍 Check the firmware type. For Global, China, EEA India may require different versions. TWRP.
- 🔗 Check the changelog builds. The description should indicate which version of Android and MIUI file-file.
If you install an incompatible version of TWRP, you may:
- 🔴 hanging on the Mi logo when loading;
- 🔴 buggy ZIP file format when trying to flash something;
- 🔴 Loss of access to data or vendor sections.
How to check the compatibility of TWRP with MIUI?
Phone Preparation: Unlocking the bootloader and installing ADB
Before installing TWRP, you must:
- Unlock the bootloader. Xiaomi blocks it by default: 🔓 Link your Mi Account to your device in Settings → Xiaomi account. 🔓 Go to the unlock page and request permission (may take up to 72 hours). 🔓 Download the Mi Unlock Tool and follow the instructions.
ADB
Fastboot
Platform Tools
Enable debugging over USB.
- 🔧 Go to Settings. → About the phone and 7 times click on the version MIUI, to activate the Developer Mode.
- 🔧 Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers and enable debugging by USB and Unlock. OEM.