Why you need root rights to Redmi 8 and what they give
Getting root rights to Xiaomi Redmi 8 opens up access to hidden Android capabilities, but there are risks involved. Without a computer, unlocking a bootloader and installing SuperSU is more difficult, but possible, thanks to special applications and vulnerabilities in firmware. In this article, we will discuss current methods for 2026, their pros and pitfalls.
With root access, you can remove system applications (including MIUI ads), overclock the processor, install custom firmware or change IMEI. However, on Redmi 8 with MIUI 12+ and higher, some methods have stopped working due to Xiaomi's tightening security. If your device is warranty, note that unlocking the bootloader will void it.
Important: The procedure requires unlocking the bootloader (OEM Unlock), which erases all data. backup through Settings โ Additional โ Backup before starting.
Preparation of the smartphone: what to do before obtaining root rights
Before you start unlocking, follow the mandatory steps:
- ๐ Charge Redmi 8 to at least 70% โ when reset through the booter, the battery discharges faster.
- ๐ฑ Turn on Debugging. USB In Settings โ The phone. โ Version. MIUI (Press 7 times, then return to Additional โ For developers).
- ๐ Unlock. OEM Unlock in the developer menu (if the option is inactive, wait 7 days after you have attached your Mi Account).
- ๐ก Connect to stable Wi-Fi โ downloading files via mobile Internet may be interrupted.
If the OEM Unlock option is missing, your Redmi 8 is already unlocked (check through the fastboot oem device-info command in the terminal). On some firmware, Xiaomi hides this item - in this case, use an alternative method with the Mi Unlock Tool (but it requires a PC).
โ ๏ธ Warning: Once the bootloader is unlocked, Redmi 8 will reset to factory settings (MIUI 12+), Recovering files after reset will be impossible.
Method 1: Root through KingRoot (no PC but limited)
KingRoot is one of the few apps that can give temporary root without a computer, but on Redmi 8 with MIUI 11/12, it is unstable and often requires several attempts.
- Download the latest version of KingRoot from the official website (not from Play Market!).
- Install APK by allowing installation from unknown sources (Settings โ Applications โ Special Access).
- Run KingRoot and press Try to Root, which takes 5-15 minutes.
- After the reboot, check root through Root Checker.
Cons of the method:
- ๐ Root often disappears after a reboot (you need to start KingRoot again).
- ๐ก๏ธ No Magisk support โ many modules wonโt work.
- ๐ซ Xiaomi may block account for using KingRoot (risk bans in Mi Cloud).
โ๏ธ Preparation for KingRoot
If KingRoot gives you a โRoot failedโ error, try:
- ๐ Restart the phone and try again.
- ๐ฑ Install an older version of KingRoot (e.g. 5.3.0).
- ๐ง Enable Flight Mode before launching the application.
Method 2: Unlock the bootloader + Magisk (most reliable way)
This method requires unlocking the bootloader, but allows you to install Magisk, the most stable and secure root. Without a PC, it is difficult to do, but possible using the Mi Unlock Tool for Android app (unofficial port).
Steps:
- Download Mi Unlock Tool for Android (registration for XDA is required).
- Install the application and log in to your Mi Account.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and press Unlock. wait until it's finished (may take up to 30 minutes).
- After unlocking the bootloader, download Magisk (version 26.4+) and run it through the custom recaveri (TWRP).
| Method | You need a PC? | Root stability | The risk of blocking |
|---|---|---|---|
| KingRoot | โ No. | โ ๏ธ Low (reset) | โ High-pitched |
| Magisk + Mi Unlock Tool | โ ๏ธ Partially (needs an Android port) | โ Tall. | โ ๏ธ Medium. |
| OneClickRoot | โ No. | โ Not working. MIUI 12+ | โ Very tall. |
โ ๏ธ Warning: If Redmi 8 stops turning on (black screen) after unlocking the bootloader, try clamping Power + Vol Up for 10 seconds. If that doesn't work, you'll need to run firmware through Fastboot (which you already need to do on PCs).
What to do if you hang on the Mi logo after root?
Method 3: Temporary root through ADB (for power users)
If you need root for a short time (for example, to remove system applications), you can use it. ADB-commands through the terminal on the phone itself:
- Install Termux from F-Droid (not from Play Market!).
- Enter the commands pkg update & pkg upgrade pkg install tsu tsu
- If you have a # icon after tsu, you have a temporary root.
Limitations of the method:
- ๐ Root is only valid until reboot.
- ๐ ๏ธ Not all system files are available for editing.
- ๐ซ Xiaomi to block Termux after update MIUI.
๐ก
If Termux doesnโt give root, try installing LADB (Local ADB) first through Magisk, which will increase your chances of successfully obtaining temporary rights.
Risks and how to minimize them
Getting root rights to Redmi 8 is fraught with:
- ๐ Blocking the Mi Account โ Xiaomi may suspect hacking and restrict access to services.
- ๐ฑ Device Brick โ if you interrupt Magisk firmware or edit system files incorrectly.
- ๐ก๏ธ Security Vulnerabilities โ Root viruses gain full control of the system.
How to reduce the risks:
- ๐ Use only verified versions of Magisk (download from official GitHub).
- ๐ฑ Do not edit files in /system backup.
- ๐ก๏ธ Install AFWall+ for controlling network access of applications.
๐ก
If you're not sure what you're doing, you'd better give up root. Most of the tasks (deleting ads, overclocking CPUs) can be done in alternative ways without the risk of building up your phone.
What to do after obtaining root rights
When root is successfully installed, set up the system to work smoothly:
- Install Magisk Manager and upgrade to the latest version.
- Download Titanium Backup to back up applications and data.
- Turn off automatic updates MIUI (Settings โ The phone. โ Updating the system โ โ๏ธ โ Auto-update).
- Remove unnecessary system applications via System App Remover (but donโt delete com.android.phone or com.miui.home!).
Useful modules for Magisk on Redmi 8:
- ๐ AccA โ Improves autonomy by optimizing background processes.
- ๐ฎ Game Turbo Booster - Overclocking GPU play-off.
- ๐ต ViPER4Android โ Improves sound through headphones.
โ ๏ธ Note: Do not install modules designed for other Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 9) and this may cause conflicts and reboots.
Root Alternatives: What You Can Do Without Unblocking
If you are afraid of the risks, consider alternatives:
- ๐งน Ad Removal: Use Blokada or AdGuard without root.
- โก CPU Overclocking: Enable Performance Mode in Settings โ Battery.
- ๐ฑ Installation GSI-Firmware: Some custom firmware (e.g. LineageOS) can be flashed through an unlocked bootloader without a full root.
- ๐ง ADB-commands: Many system settings (e.g., disabling MiuiOptimization) can be changed through an adb shell without root.
Example of a team to disable MIUI ads via ADB:
adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.miui.systemAdSolutionThis team runs MIUI 12-14 and does not require root rights.