Xiaomi Redmi 4X: Which firmware is better in 2026?

The Xiaomi Redmi 4X (codenamed santoni) is still a popular budget smartphone, despite its release in 2017, and is maintained by an active community of custom firmware developers and regular updates from Xiaomi. However, choosing the right firmware can be a real headache: official versions are often outdated, and custom versions offer advanced functionality, but require unlocking the bootloader and technical skills.

In this article, we’ll take a look at all the available firmware options for Redmi 4X, their pros and cons, and give you tips for choosing based on your needs – whether it’s maximum stability, fresh Android features or performance optimization.

Xiaomi's official firmware: MIUI Global vs China Stable

Xiaomi offers two main types of official firmware for the Redmi 4X: Global Stable (international) and China Stable (Chinese) both based on Android 6.0 Marshmallow or 7.1 Nougat (depending on version), but have key differences in functionality and localization.

Global Stable is the best choice for most users, and it includes:

• 🌍 Full localization in Russian and other European languages
• 🔒 Support for Google Services (GMS)"box"
• 📱 Optimization for the international market (no Chinese applications)
• 🔄 Regular security updates (though not frequent)

On the other hand, China Stable can be of interest to enthusiasts thanks to:

• 🚀 More frequent updates (but no Russian language)
• 🎯 Exclusive functions MIUI, which do not fall into the global assembly
• 📈 Best Optimization for the Hardware Platform (According to User Reviews)

It’s important to consider that switching from China to Global Stable can lead to a device locking due to Xiaomi’s regional-binding policy, which is often a nasty surprise for users trying to upgrade themselves. If your smartphone is originally bought for the Chinese market, it’s better to stay on China Stable or consider custom firmware.

Custom firmware: LineageOS, Pixel Experience and more

For those who want to make the most of Redmi 4X, custom firmware offers an updated Android, no bloatware, and advanced settings.

Installing custom firmware requires unlocking the bootloader (fastboot oem unlock), which resets all data on the device. In addition, some firmware (such as Pixel Experience) may not support Dual SIM or have problems with the NFC module if it is present in your Redmi 4X modification.

⚠️ Note: Android 10 and later firmware may not support 32-bit applications, which is important for older games and banking programs. Before installing, check the compatibility of critical applications through the App Compatibility Checker service.

How to determine the current firmware on Redmi 4X

Before deciding to change firmware, you need to understand which version is installed on your device.

1. Go to Settings. → The phone.
2. Find the items MIUI Version and Android Version
3. Write down the full build number (e.g. V12.5.1.0.NCMIXM)
4. Check the firmware region by the last symbols: Global: ends in MI (e.g. NCMIXM) China: ends in CN (e.g. NCCNXM) EEA (Europe): ends in MIEU

You can also use the ADB command to get the full information:

adb shell getprop ro.miui.ui.version.name


adb shell getprop ro.build.version.incremental

If you have Stable in your firmware name, it's an official build, and labels like xiaomi.eu or Lineage indicate custom versions, and it's helpful to run a test to check the integrity of your system:

adb shell dumpsys package | grep"versionCode"

Step-by-step instructions for installing firmware

The process of firmware Redmi 4X depends on the type of firmware chosen. Consider the universal algorithm for the official and custom versions.

Make a backup copy of the data (photos, contacts, SMS)|Check the battery charge (minimum 60%)|Download firmware and tools (MiFlash, TWRP)|Install Qualcomm drivers and ADB|Unlock the bootloader (for custom firmware)-->

For official firmware (via MiFlash):

1. Download the official ROM for your model (Santoni)
2. Unpack the archive in a folder without Cyrillic characters
3. Launch MiFlash.exe, connect your phone in Fastboot mode (clip Volume Down + Power)
4. Select the firmware folder and press Refresh, then Flash.
5. Wait for completion (green tick in MiFlash)

For custom firmware (via TWRP):

1. Install TWRP Recovery for Santoni
2. Download firmware (for example, with XDA Developers) and GApps (if necessary)
3. Download to TWRP (Loudness Up + Power)
4. Make Wipe → Advanced Wipe (select Dalvik, Cache, System, Data)
5. Install the firmware through Install, then GApps
6. Restart (the first launch can take 10-15 minutes)

If the device does not turn on after firmware (hung on the Mi logo), try:

1. Download to Fastboot and run fastboot erase userdata
2. Reflash the device via MiFlash with the option clean all
3. If it doesn’t work, use EDL Mode (requires an authorized Xiaomi account)

Recommendations for choosing firmware in 2026

Based on the analysis of forums (4PDA, XDA), performance tests and user feedback, we have compiled recommendations for choosing firmware for different use cases of Redmi 4X:

💡

For maximum stability and long-term autonomy, choose the official MIUI Global Stable. This is the best option for everyday use without "dancing with a drum".

• 🏆 Best official firmware: MIUI 12.5 Global Stable (latest version for santoni) Suitable for users who need stability and support for banking applications.
• 🚀 Best custom firmware: LineageOS 16 (Android 9).The optimal balance between performance and stability, suitable for enthusiasts.
• 🎮 For gamers: MIUI Pro 12 or Pixel Experience with Perseus core.These firmwares offer better optimization for gaming.
• 🔒 For privacy: GrapheneOS (if you find a build for santoni) or LineageOS without GApps. Minimize data collection.
• 💰 Budget option: Stay on stock firmware and use Magisk to root and remove bloatware.

If you are planning to use Redmi 4X as a second phone or for specific tasks (e.g, GPS-tracker, consider the firmware MIUI China Stable – It offers better energy optimization in standby mode.

Remember that Xiaomi has stopped official support for Redmi 4X since 2023, so no new firmware from the manufacturer will appear. All security updates and vulnerability patches are now only available through custom builds.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Redmi firmware 4X