How to get a root rights on Xiaomi Poco X3: a safe guide with unlocking the bootloader and installing Magisk

Xiaomi Poco X3

root-right

In this article, we will discuss three officially supported methods for obtaining root rights to the Poco X3 (surya and karna models), including unlocking the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool, installing a custom TWRP recavator and Magisk firmware. Particular attention will be paid to bypassing the restrictions of Xiaomi 2026, such as linking an account to a device and new unlock rules.

Before you start, consider: the warranty on the device will be canceled, and some banking applications (such as SberBank Online or Google Pay) may stop working due to the SafetyNet trigger.

1.Preparation of the device: what to do before unlocking

The first step is to back up all the data. Unlocking the bootloader erases the device's internal memory, including photos, contacts, and installed apps. Use Mi Cloud, Google Drive, or physical copying to your PC via MTP.

Check the firmware version and device model:

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ The phone.
  2. Find the line MIUI version (should be at least 12.0.3 for stability).
  3. Scroll down to the Model - make sure it's the M2007J20CG (surya) or M2007J20CI (karna).

If the MIUI version is outdated, update it via Settings β†’ System Update. Don’t use beta versions – they may contain bugs that prevent you from unlocking.

Developer mode is enabled (7 taps by build number)|

Allowed debugging over USB in the developer settings |

Installed ADB/Fastboot drivers on PC|

Download the Mi Unlock Tool of the latest version (2026)|

Battery charge β‰₯ 60%|

Screen lock disabled (PIN/graphical)-->

2 Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool

Xiaomi officially allows you to unlock the bootloader, but since 2023 has tightened the rules. Now you need to link your Mi Account to the device for 7 days before unlocking. If you just dropped your phone or bought a used one, you will have to wait.

Instructions for unlocking:

  1. Sign in to Mi Account on your phone (Settings β†’ Xiaomi Account).
  2. Go to Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Developers β†’ Mi Unlock status and link your account to your device.
  3. Download Mi Unlock Tool (version no lower than 5.5.224.54).
  4. Launch the tool on your PC, log in to the same Mi Account and connect your phone in Fastboot mode (hold Volume Down + Power when the device is off).
  5. Press Unlock and wait until it is completed (usually 10-15 minutes).
What to do if Mi Unlock Tool gives you a "Couldn't unlock" error
Error is often associated with non-compliance 7-You can wait for the day or use an unofficial version of the tool: 1. Wait full. 168 hours after the account was linked. 2. Use the original USB-cable (not Type-C from other devices). 3. Disable antivirus on PC – it can block Fastboot drivers. 4. Try another PC with Windows 10/11 (on macOS/Linux tool).

Important: Once unlocked, the phone will automatically reset to factory settings. Don't be afraid, that's okay.

3. Installation of custom TWRP Recovery

Xiaomi’s standard recovery doesn’t allow you to flash modified files, so we’ll need to TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project. For Poco X3 Use the official build from twrp.me (version) 3.7.0_12-0 or newer).

TWRP firmware via Fastboot:

fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0_12-0-surya.img


fastboot reboot recovery

If you see a stock menu after you reboot in the recovery, it means that the firmware did not apply. It is due to the anti-rollback feature in new versions of MIUI.

  1. Download the modified image with bypass protection.
  2. Sweep it with the same command, but add the flag --disable-verity: fastboot flash recovery twrp-mod.img --disable-verity

πŸ’‘

If after installing the TWRP phone is fixated on the MI logo, press Volume up + Power for 10 seconds for a forced reboot to the Recovery.

4. Obtaining Root Rights through Magisk

Magisk is a universal tool for obtaining root rights without changing the systemless root, and it also masks the status of the root from applications that check SafetyNet.

Installation instructions:

  1. Download the latest Magisk ZIP (version 26.4+).
  2. Move the file to the phone’s internal memory.
  3. Boot to TWRP (hold Volume Up + Power when turned on).
  4. Press Install, select Magisk-v26.4.zip and swipe for confirmation.
  5. After installation, reboot to the system.

To test your success, install the Magisk Manager app (downloaded automatically after you have firmware) and run the SafetyNet test in Settings β†’ MagiskHide. If the status is Green, root is set correctly.

Magisk (systemless)|

SuperSU (obsolete)|

Castomic core with rue |

I don't know what to choose.-->

5. Solving common problems

Even with the correct following of the instructions, errors can occur, and the most common solutions are:

Problem.Reason.Decision
Mi Unlock Tool is 99% FreezingXiaomi servers are overloaded or blocked by IPUse a VPN (e.g., ProtonVPN) or try again later
After the firmware Magisk phone does not bootIncompatible version of Magisk or damaged ZIPFlash through TWRP Magisk-uninstaller.zip, then repeat with another version
SafetyNet does not pass (Red status)No masking or outdated certificatesInstall Universal SafetyNet Fix in Magisk
The banking application is not workingRoot or incorrect MagiskHide configuration detectedAdd the app to the Hiding List in MagiskHide and restart

Critical error: if after manipulation the phone stopped turning on (black screen, no reaction to buttons), it can be hard brick. 90% of the time helps firmware full fastboot image through the Mi Flash Tool. Download the official firmware for your model on the Xiaomi website and follow the instructions.

πŸ’‘

If the phone doesn’t turn on after unlocking the bootloader, never try to flash custom files without first checking their compatibility with your model (surya or karna).

6. Alternative methods of obtaining root

If the standard method with Magisk doesn’t work, consider alternatives:

  • πŸ”„ Patched Boot Image: Modified firmware boot.img Suitable for devices with a locked bootloader (but requires unlocking for a permanent root).
  • πŸ“¦ Custom firmware: Install LineageOS or Pixel Experience with pre-built root. MIUI.
  • πŸ”§ ADB Root (temporary): Single root through an adb shell without firmware. Suitable for one-off tasks (e.g., removing the bloatware).

Magisk remains the most stable for the Poco X3, but if you want advanced features (such as nuclear modifications), look for firmware with a Perseus or FrancoKernel core.

7.Safety after obtaining the root

root rights give you complete control of the system, but they also open the door to threats.

  • πŸ”’ Turn it off. ADB-Wi-Fi access if you don’t use it all the time.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Install MagiskHide for all critical applications (banks, payments).
  • πŸ”„ Update Magisk and its modules regularly (especially SafetyNet Fix).
  • 🚫 Do not install modules from unverified sources – they may contain backdoors.

Xiaomi periodically releases updates that can automatically remove the root or block the bootloader.

  1. Turn off automatic MIUI update in Settings β†’ System Update β†’ Three points β†’ Settings.
  2. Before you manually update, check the compatibility of the new firmware with Magisk on XDA Developers.

πŸ’‘

Create a full backup system in TWRP after successfully installing the root, which will save you from data loss when experimenting with modules or firmware.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I get a root on Poco X3 without unlocking the bootloader?
No. Xiaomi blocks any modifications to the system partition without officially unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool.A temporary root via ADB is possible, but it will disappear after the reboot.
Why are banking applications not working after Magisk is installed?
Banking applications check system integrity via SafetyNet. Solution: Activate MagiskHide in Magisk settings. Add the app to the hide list. Install Universal SafetyNet Fix. Reboot your phone. If it doesn't work, use alternative payment methods (e.g. Revolut or virtual cards).
How to return the guarantee after receiving the root?
Technically, no. Xiaomi fixes the bootloader's unlock status in the hardware chip (efuse). However, you can: Swipe the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool (select clean all). Close the bootloader with fastboot oem lock (risky - can lead to a brick!). At the service center, do not mention the root unless the problem is related to the software part. DRM-Keys (Widevine will not work) L1 for Netflix HD).
What apps should be removed after getting a root?
With Magisk or ADB, you can safely remove the following bloatware (checked on Poco X3): pm uninstall-k --user 0 com.miui.analytics pm uninstall-k --user 0 com.xiaomi.joyose pm uninstall-k --user 0 com.miui.cloudservice pm uninstall-k --user 0 com.miui.cloudup pm uninstall-k --user 0 com.miui.com.com.com.
Can I upgrade MIUI with root rights?
Yes, but only manually via TWRP. Automatic update will remove Magisk and can block the bootloader. Order of action: Download the full fastboot-rom for your model. Sweat it through the Mi Flash Tool, but don't choose the clean all option (to save data). After the update, re-sweep Magisk through TWRP. If the update is critical (for example, fixes vulnerabilities), it is better to wait for Magisk compatibility confirmation on the forums.