Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 (codenamed whyred) is still a popular device among Android enthusiasts due to its balanced hardware and active support for custom firmware. However, with the release of new versions of Android and the termination of official updates from Xiaomi in 2021, owners are faced with the dilemma: continue to use outdated MIUI or switch to alternative builds.
In this article, we will analyze all the current firmware options for Redmi Note 5 – from the official MIUI 12.5 (the last stable) to modern custom solutions based on Android 13/14. Consider their pros and cons on key criteria: performance, autonomy, camera support, stability and the ability to unlock the bootloader. Particular attention will be paid to the unique problems of Redmi Note 5 with firmware on new versions of Android (for example, bugs with a sensor or overheating), which are often silenced in general reviews.
If you're looking for maximum stability, stay with MIUI. If you want a modern interface and long-term support, read about Pixel Experience or LineageOS. And for those who like to experiment, we've prepared a review of niche firmware like ArrowOS or HaventOS with custom features.
Official MIUI firmware: latest stable version and its limitations
The latest official firmware for the Redmi Note 5 was MIUI 12.5, which was released in 2021, and Xiaomi no longer updates the device, but MIUI is still the most stable option for everyday use.
- ✅ Full compatibility with hardware: no bugs with camera, sensors or sensor (unlike many custom firmware).
- ✅ Optimized power consumption: battery lasts longer than most custom.
- ✅ Support for all original Xiaomi features: Game Turbo, Second Space, App Lock.
- ❌ An outdated version of Android (Android 10) with security vulnerabilities.
- ❌ Lots of pre-installed software and advertising (even in the global version).
The official MIUI versions for the Redmi Note 5 are available on Xiaomi Firmware.We recommend choosing a stable global build (for example, V12.5.3.0.QEIMIXM) - it is less slow than the Chinese or European versions.
⚠️ Note: When switching from custom firmware back to MIUI You may need to reset completely via Fastboot (fastboot erase userdata command). IMEI mobile.
Pixel Experience 2: A clean Android with long-term support
The Pixel Experience is one of the most popular custom firmware for the Redmi Note 5, offering an interface identical to Google Pixel smartphones. The latest available version is the Pixel Experience 13 (Android 13), but there are also unofficial Android 14 ports from the community.
Advantages:
- 📱 Minimalist interface without unnecessary add-ons Xiaomi.
- 🔄 Regular security updates (monthly).
- 📸 The main camera works (but without night mode and 48 MP).
- 🎮 Google Camera (GCam) with Google Camera HDR+.
Disadvantages:
- ⚠️ Problems with fingerprint scanner (sometimes not recognizing fingerprints after rebooting).
- ⚡ Higher battery consumption compared to MIUI (~15-20% post 8 standby hours against 10% bal MIUI).
- 🔊 Wrong job. VoLTE/VoWiFi Some operators (for example, the body)2).
How do I install? You need an unlocked bootloader and custom Recovery (like OrangeFox).
- Download the firmware from the official website (select the version for whyred).
- Reboot to Recavator (Power + Vol Up)
- Run Wipe → Format Data (required!)
- Install. ZIP-Firmware and GApps (if you need Google services).
☑️ Preparation for the Pixel Experience
3. LineageOS: Maximum stability among custom
LineageOS is the gold standard for custom firmware, known for its stability and minimalism. Redmi Note 5 is available for Android 11 (official) and Android 12/13 (unofficial), the main difference from Pixel Experience is the lack of proprietary services Google in the basic supply (they need to be installed separately).
Pros:
- ⚡ Lower power consumption than the Pixel Experience.
- 🛠️ Minimum number of bugs (camera and mobile communication work best).
- 🔧 Flexible interface settings (themes, gestures, status bar).
Cons:
- 📱 Less “pixel” interface (no Google branded features).
- 🔊 There is no built-in uniform sound (you have to use it) ViPER4Android).
- 📶 5 GHz Wi-Fi problems on some routers.
LineageOS and Pixel Experience:
| Criteria | LineageOS 18.1 (Android 11) | Pixel Experience 13 (Android 13) |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Autonomy | 4-5 hours of screen time | 3.5-4 screen hours |
| Camera (GCam) | It works without bugs. | Sometimes it's out. |
| Updates | Rarely (once every 2-3 months) | Frequently (once a month) |
⚠️ Attention: On LineageOS 19+ (Android 12+) Redmi Note 5 can display artifacts on the screen at high load (for example, in games). This is due to the Adreno 509 drivers - the problem is insoluble at the firmware level.
4. Niche firmware: ArrowOS, HavocOS and other experiments
If you don't like the standard options, you can try the less common firmware, which often offers unique features, but can be less stable.
- 🏹 ArrowOS is a firmware with a focus on performance and minimalism. supports Android 13 for whyred, but has bugs with Bluetooth LE (It doesn't work with smartwatches).
- 🌪️ HavocOS is a highly-castomized firmware with support for Android 12. It differs in the abundance of interface settings, but warms up stronger than others.
- 🔥 Resurrection Remix - a combination of features from LineageOS, Pixel Experience and OmniROM. the most "sophisticated", but slows down on weak iron.
Who's the right fit? These firmwares are only worth considering if:
- You need a specific feature (e.g., microG support instead of GApps in ArrowOS).
- You're willing to put up with bugs for the sake of experimentation.
- Your Redmi Note 5 is used as a secondary device (not for daily use).
What firmware should not be installed on the Redmi Note 5?
5. How to choose firmware: a step-by-step algorithm
To avoid making a mistake with the choice, follow this scheme:
- Identify priorities: 🔋 Autonomy → MIUI 12.5 or LineageOS 18.1. 📱 Modern Android → Pixel Experience 13. 🎮 Games → MIUI (Best Optimization for Adreno 509). 🛠️ Customization → HavocOS or Resurrection Remix.
- Check compatibility: If you use VoLTE, avoid Pixel Experience. If you need contactless payment, only MIUI or LineageOS (other firmware may not work on Google Pay/SberPay).
Assess the risks:
- Are you ready to lose your warranty (when unlocking the bootloader)?
- Do you have a backup (when you switch from MIUI to caste, you lose photos in your internal memory)?
Step 2: Installation of custom recaveri
We recommend OrangeFox Recovery – it works better with whyred than TWRP.
fastboot flash recovery orangefox_recovery.img
fastboot reboot recoveryStep 3: Preparing the firmware
- Download. ZIP-firmware file (e.g, PixelExperience_whyred-13.0-20260310.zip).
- If you need GApps, choose the Pico (minimum set) option.
- LineageOS may need a separate MindTheGapps package.