Rooting your Android device gives you control, customization, and access to powerful tools. But choosing the right method depends on your goals and your device.
Two popular options KernelSU and Magisk offer different benefits. This guide compares both tools to help you decide which one fits your needs.
Table of Contents
What Is KernelSU?
KernelSU is a kernel-level root solution. It works by modifying the Android kernel directly to provide root access. It’s designed for devices using GKI (Generic Kernel Image), but it can also be added to other kernels manually.
Features of KernelSU
- Root access built into the kernel
- Supports post-boot and post-mount scripts
- Can bypass SafetyNet and Play Integrity on some devices
- Lightweight and fast
- Limited module support compared to Magisk
- Requires a custom kernel built with KernelSU
What Is Magisk?
Magisk is a systemless root solution. It modifies the boot image without touching the system partition, making it easier to hide root and pass security checks.
Features of Magisk
- MagiskHide and Zygisk for hiding root from apps
- Large module ecosystem for customization
- Compatible with most Android devices
- Easy installation via boot image patching
- Can be extended with Magisk Delta and Shamiko for better stealth
- Widely used for advanced tasks like reverse engineering
Feature Comparison
| Feature | KernelSU | Magisk |
|---|---|---|
| Root Method | Kernel-based | Systemless (boot image) |
| Module Support | Limited | Extensive |
| SafetyNet/Play Integrity | Often passes automatically | Requires setup (e.g. Shamiko) |
| Banking App Compatibility | Good if SafetyNet passes | Varies depending on setup |
| Community Size | Growing | Large and active |
| Ease of Use | Requires kernel build | User-friendly installation |
| Ideal For | Stability, stealth | Advanced customization |
KernelSU Availability
KernelSU only works if a kernel built with KernelSU is available for your device. That means either a developer has created one for your phone, or you build it yourself. If no compatible kernel exists, you cannot use KernelSU. This is different from Magisk, which works on most devices by patching the boot image.
Which Is Best for You?
If You Want Advanced Features and Flexibility
- Customize deeply with modules
- Perform reverse engineering or bug bounty work
- Use tools like LSPosed, Shamiko, and Magisk Delta
- Experiment with system behavior
- Your device supports Magisk boot image patching
Magisk is better suited for advanced users who want full control and a wide range of tools.
If You Want Stability and Simplicity
- Use a few modules
- Block ads
- Access banking apps safely
- Prefer automatic SafetyNet bypass
- A KernelSU-built kernel is available for your device
KernelSU is a good choice for stable use with minimal setup, if the kernel is available.
FAQs
Some modules may work, but many need adaptation due to different implementation methods.
Magisk offers more options like AdAway and Systemless Hosts. KernelSU supports basic ad-blocking too.
Yes, but you’ll need to uninstall one and flash the correct boot or kernel image for the other.
Conclusion
Both KernelSU and Magisk are powerful root solutions, but they serve different purposes. KernelSU is ideal for users who want a stable and stealthy root setup with fewer modules if a compatible kernel is available.
Magisk is perfect for those who want advanced customization, a large module ecosystem, and tools for development or research. Choose the one that fits your goals and technical comfort level.
Thank you for the detailed explanation it’s awesome to have you teach us ignorant this things.
It is ok (or needed/useful) to have both KSU+Magisk installed on my Xiaomi phone?
You’re very welcome! I’m here to help and share knowledge. Regarding your question, it’s generally not necessary to have both KSU and Magisk installed on your Xiaomi phone. Magisk should suffice for most users’ customization and root needs.
Great comparison! You provided a comprehensive analysis that’s sure to help users make informed decisions. Looking forward to more insightful content like this.
Hi,
I still have doubts regarding using KSU or Magisk. I have used magisk earlier, but am new to KSU.
KSU has 2 ways, GKI and LKM. If I use, I would use the LKM on my poco F6. The problem with magisk that I have always had is that banking apps sometimes stop working, and its a hassle to get them to work. Would KSU (in LKM) be any better than magisk to solve these problems, as this is only reason I was thinking about using KSU.
Yes, KSU generally makes it easier to hide root compared to Magisk, especially when using the LKM method. Many users find banking and payment apps run more reliably on KSU without as much hassle as Magisk.