SuperSu Vs Magisk: The Battle of Rooting Tools for Android

Have you ever wanted to take control of your Android device and unlock its full potential? If so, then you may have heard about the concept of “rooting” your device. Rooting allows you to access the deepest levels of your device’s operating system, giving you the ability to make customizations and optimizations that are not usually possible.

In the world of Android rooting, there are two popular tools that are often compared: SuperSu and Magisk. These tools provide users with root access and a range of additional features, but they differ in terms of functionality and performance. In this article, we will explore the key features and benefits of each tool, and help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

So, whether you’re a seasoned Android user looking to upgrade your rooting tool, or you’re new to the concept of rooting and want to understand the differences between SuperSu and Magisk, this article will provide you with all the information you need. Let’s dive in and discover the battle of the rooting tools!

Understanding Android Rooting

What is Android Rooting?

Android rooting is the process of gaining privileged control, also known as root access, over the Android operating system. By default, Android devices are designed with restrictions to prevent users from making certain modifications to the system. Rooting allows you to bypass these restrictions and access the core files and settings of the operating system.

Advantages and Risks of Rooting

Rooting your Android device can offer several benefits, such as:

• Customization: Rooting gives you the ability to personalize your device’s appearance, user interface, and system functionality. You can install custom ROMs, modify system settings, and customize your device to match your preferences.
• Performance Optimization: With root access, you can use performance optimization tools and apps to improve your device’s speed and responsiveness. You can also remove bloatware and unnecessary system apps that may be slowing down your device.
• App Compatibility: Some apps require root access to unlock certain features or functions. By rooting your device, you can use these apps to their full potential without any limitations.

However, it’s important to note that rooting also comes with certain risks and drawbacks:

• Security Vulnerabilities: Rooting your Android device exposes it to potential security risks. Since you have full control over the operating system, malicious apps or actions can have more severe consequences, including data breaches and device vulnerabilities.
• Voided Warranty: Rooting your device often voids the manufacturer’s warranty. If you encounter any hardware or software issues, the manufacturer may refuse to provide support or repair services. It’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the loss of warranty before deciding to root your device.
• Bricking: Improper rooting techniques or incompatible modifications can result in bricking, which essentially means rendering your device unusable. This can happen if you make mistakes during the rooting process or install incompatible software.

Before rooting your Android device, make sure to research thoroughly and understand the advantages and risks involved. It’s also recommended to backup your data and follow reliable rooting guides and instructions to ensure a smooth and successful rooting experience.

SuperSu: Features and Functionality

SuperSu is a popular rooting tool for Android that gives users full control over their device. Developed by Chainfire, SuperSu offers a wide range of features and functionalities that make it a go-to choice for many Android enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at what SuperSu has to offer:

Overview of SuperSu

SuperSu acts as a superuser management tool, granting root access to apps and processes on your Android device. It replaces the default Android superuser management app with its own, providing enhanced functionality and control.

With SuperSu, you can easily manage root access for individual apps. This means that you can choose which apps have root privileges and which ones don’t. This is particularly useful for security and privacy reasons, as it allows you to control which apps have the ability to access sensitive data and modify system settings.

Installation Process

Installing SuperSu is a simple and straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Download the SuperSu zip file from the official website or a trusted source.
2. Boot your Android device into custom recovery mode (such as TWRP).
3. Flash the SuperSu zip file using the custom recovery.
4. Reboot your device, and SuperSu will be installed.

Also Read: How to Install TWRP Recovery on Your Android Device

Managing Root Access

SuperSu provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily manage root access for individual apps. Once installed, you can open the SuperSu app and navigate to the “Apps” tab. Here, you will see a list of all the apps installed on your device.

To grant or deny root access to an app, simply tap on it, and you’ll be presented with options to allow or deny root access. This gives you complete control over which apps can utilize root privileges, ensuring that you have full control over your device’s security and privacy.

Additionally, SuperSu also provides additional features like temporary unroot, log management, and the ability to completely unroot your device if needed.

Key Features of SuperSu:

• Individual app control: Choose which apps have root access.
• Temporary unroot: Temporarily remove root access for specific tasks or apps.
• Log management: View and manage log files for root-related activities.
• Full unroot: Completely remove root access from your device.

SuperSu has been a reliable and popular choice among Android users for years. Its clean interface, easy installation process, and robust features make it a trusted tool for managing root access on Android devices. So, if you’re looking for a rooting tool that provides full control and customization options, SuperSu is definitely worth considering.

Also Read: SuperSu for Android: Root Any Android Device Without PC

Next, let’s take a look at Magisk: Features and Functionality.

Magisk: Features and Functionality

When it comes to rooting your Android device, Magisk is another popular tool that offers its own unique set of features and functionality. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Magisk stand out:

Overview of Magisk

• Magisk is an open-source rooting solution that not only allows you to root your device but also provides a wide range of additional features.
• One of the key advantages of Magisk is its ability to bypass Google’s SafetyNet. SafetyNet is a security measure implemented by Google to check the integrity of your device and determine if it has been modified. Magisk can hide root access from SafetyNet, allowing you to continue using apps that typically don’t work on rooted devices.
• Magisk also offers the ability to install modules, which are essentially add-ons that can enhance your device’s functionality. These modules can range from simple tweaks to advanced features that can completely transform your Android experience.

Installation Process

Installing Magisk is a relatively straightforward process, although it does require an unlocked bootloader on your device.

1. The first step is to download the Magisk Manager APK file from the official Magisk website.
2. Once you have the APK file, you can install it on your device and then launch the Magisk Manager app.
3. From the app, you can choose to install Magisk by selecting the “Install” option and following the on-screen instructions.
4. After the installation is complete, you will have root access on your device, and you can start exploring the various features and modules offered by Magisk.

Also Read: How To Root Any Android Device With Magisk Manager

Magisk Modules

One of the major advantages of Magisk is its modular system. Magisk modules are essentially separate packages that can be installed on top of Magisk to add specific features or tweaks to your device.

These modules can be downloaded and installed directly from the Magisk Manager app, making it incredibly convenient to customize your device.

There are thousands of Magisk modules available, ranging from performance tweaks and battery optimizations to theming tools and audio enhancements.

Some popular Magisk modules include:

• ViPER4Android FX – Enhances the audio quality on your device.
• Pixel Experience – Brings the stock Android experience from Google Pixel devices to other Android phones.
• Greenify – Helps optimize battery life by hibernating background apps.
• AdAway – Blocks ads system-wide on your device.

Also Read: Top 10 Best Root Apps For Android

With its ability to hide root access from SafetyNet and the vast collection of Magisk modules available, Magisk provides a powerful and flexible rooting solution for Android users. Whether you’re looking to customize your device or enhance its performance, Magisk has you covered.

In the next section, we will compare the performance and stability of SuperSU and Magisk to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Stability

When it comes to the performance and stability of rooting tools for Android, both SuperSu and Magisk have their own strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a closer look at how they perform in this aspect:

SuperSu Performance and Stability

SuperSu has been a popular choice among Android users for a long time, and one of the reasons for its popularity is its strong performance and stability. Here’s what you can expect from SuperSu:

• Smooth operation: SuperSu is known for its smooth and responsive performance. It allows you to gain root access to your device without any noticeable lags or slowdowns.
• Reliability: SuperSu has been tested and used by millions of users worldwide, and it has proven to be a reliable tool for rooting Android devices. It is known for its stability and rarely causes any system crashes or errors.
• Compatibility: SuperSu is compatible with a wide range of Android devices and versions, making it suitable for most users.

However, it’s worth noting that SuperSu hasn’t received any major updates since 2017, which means it may not be fully compatible with the latest Android versions and features. This lack of updates can affect its performance and stability on newer devices.

Magisk Performance and Stability

Magisk, on the other hand, is a relatively newer rooting tool that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. Here’s how it performs in terms of performance and stability:

• Efficiency: Magisk is known for its efficient performance. It allows you to root your device without modifying the system partition, which helps in maintaining better performance and stability.
• Systemless rooting: Magisk uses a “systemless” rooting technique, which means it doesn’t make any permanent changes to the system files. This ensures that your device remains stable and allows you to easily revert back to the unrooted state if needed.
• Regular updates: One of the biggest advantages of using Magisk is its active development and regular updates. The developers behind Magisk constantly release new updates to address any bugs or issues and ensure compatibility with the latest Android versions. This commitment to updates enhances its performance and stability.

With its system-less rooting approach and regular updates, Magisk offers a high level of performance and stability, especially on newer Android devices.

In conclusion, both SuperSu and Magisk offer decent performance and stability for rooting Android devices. SuperSu is known for its reliability and compatibility, while Magisk stands out with its system-less rooting approach and regular updates. If you’re using an older Android device, SuperSu may be a suitable choice. However, if you want the latest features and compatibility, Magisk is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and device compatibility.

Compatibility and System Updates

When it comes to compatibility and system updates, both SuperSu and Magisk have their own advantages and considerations. Let’s take a closer look at how these rooting tools handle compatibility and system updates:

SuperSu Compatibility and System Updates

• Compatibility: SuperSu is known for its widespread compatibility with various Android devices and versions. It works well with most popular Android smartphones and tablets, including older models. Even if you’re using a custom ROM, SuperSu can still provide root access without any issues.
• System Updates: However, one downside of SuperSu is that it modifies the system partition, which can cause problems when it comes to system updates. When you update your Android device to a new version, SuperSu modifications may interfere with the update process. This can lead to your device getting stuck in a boot loop or experiencing other software-related issues.
• Workarounds: To overcome this issue, SuperSu offers a “systemless root” option, which allows users to avoid modifying the system partition. By enabling systemless root, SuperSu can coexist with system updates, ensuring that your device stays up to date without any complications. However, it’s important to note that not all devices and ROMs support systemless root.

Magisk Compatibility and System Updates

• Compatibility: Magisk, on the other hand, is specifically designed with compatibility in mind. It aims to provide a root solution that is not only compatible with a wide range of devices but also with different Android versions and custom ROMs. Magisk’s modular approach allows for flexibility and easy integration, making it highly compatible across the Android ecosystem.
• System Updates: Unlike SuperSu, Magisk adopts a “systemless” approach from the beginning, which means it doesn’t directly modify the system partition. This enables seamless system updates without any complications. When an update is available for your device, you can install it without worrying about Magisk interfering with the process. After the update, Magisk can be easily reinstalled to regain root access.
• SafetyNet Compatibility: Additionally, Magisk is also known for its compatibility with SafetyNet, a Google API that checks for device integrity and can affect the functionality of certain apps, such as banking applications and Pokemon Go. Magisk includes a feature called “Magisk Hide,” which allows users to hide root status from certain apps that may not work on rooted devices. This makes Magisk an excellent choice for users who want both root access and the ability to use these apps without any limitations.

In summary, while SuperSu has good overall compatibility, it may require the use of systemless root to avoid complications during system updates. On the other hand, Magisk offers excellent compatibility with a wide range of devices and ROMs, along with a systemless root approach that ensures seamless system updates. Moreover, Magisk’s compatibility with SafetyNet provides users with the convenience of using apps that require device integrity checks.

Continue reading to learn more about the security and safety features of SuperSu and Magisk.

Security and Safety

When it comes to rooting your Android device, security and safety are two important aspects that need to be considered. Both SuperSu and Magisk strive to provide a secure and safe rooting experience, but there are some differences that you should be aware of. Let’s dive into the security and safety features of each rooting tool:

SuperSu Security and Safety Features

• Root Access Management: SuperSu allows you to manage root access for each app, granting or denying it on a per-app basis. This level of control ensures that only trusted apps have root access, minimizing the risk of potential security breaches.
• PIN/Password Protection: SuperSu offers an additional layer of security by allowing you to set a PIN or password to protect the SuperSu settings. This prevents unauthorized access from malicious apps or individuals who may try to make unauthorized changes to your device.
• Logs and Notifications: SuperSu keeps a detailed log of all root access attempts, providing you with valuable information about which apps are trying to access root privileges. You can also receive notifications when an app requests root access, allowing you to make informed decisions.
• Temporary Unroot: In situations where you need to temporarily unroot your device, SuperSu offers a “Temporary Unroot” option. This can be useful when you want to use apps that do not work on rooted devices or when performing tasks that require temporary unrooting for safety reasons.

Magisk Security and Safety Features

• MagiskHide: Magisk uses a feature called “MagiskHide” to hide the root status of your device from certain apps that may refuse to work on rooted devices. This ensures that you can use these apps without any restrictions or compatibility issues.
• Systemless Root: Magisk employs a systemless root method, which means that the root modifications are made without altering the system partition. This allows you to enjoy root access while keeping the integrity of your device’s system intact. It also makes it easier to install official system updates without conflicts.
• SafetyNet Compatibility: Magisk offers built-in compatibility with SafetyNet, a Google service that checks if a device has been tampered with or rooted. Using Magisk’s “MagiskHide” feature, you can pass SafetyNet checks and use apps that rely on a secure and unaltered device, such as banking or payment apps.

Both SuperSu and Magisk prioritize security and safety when it comes to rooting your Android device. However, it is important to note that no rooting tool can guarantee 100% security, as rooting inherently involves bypassing certain security measures put in place by the Android operating system. It is crucial to follow best practices, use trusted sources for rooting tools, and exercise caution when granting root access to apps.

Ultimately, the choice between SuperSu and Magisk boils down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your Android device. Both tools offer a range of security and safety features to enhance your rooting experience, allowing you to customize your device while minimizing potential risks.

Pros and Cons of SuperSu

SuperSu is one of the most popular rooting tools for Android devices. It offers a range of features and functionality that make it a preferred choice for many users. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether SuperSu is the right rooting tool for you. Here are some of the pros and cons of SuperSu:

Pros of SuperSu:

1. Easy Installation: SuperSu is known for its simple and straightforward installation process. Even if you’re new to rooting, you’ll find it easy to install and set up on your device.
2. Root Access Management: One of the key features of SuperSu is its ability to manage root access on your device. It allows you to grant or deny root permissions to specific apps, giving you full control over which apps have access to system-level functions.
3. Unrooting Option: SuperSu provides an option to unroot your device, which is useful if you no longer want to have root access. This feature allows you to revert back to the original state of your device without any hassle.
4. Open Source: SuperSu is an open-source project, which means that the source code is freely available for anyone to view and modify. This transparency fosters trust among users as they can verify the security and integrity of the software.

Cons of SuperSu:

1. Lack of Updates: SuperSu has not received regular updates in recent years, which has raised concerns among users about its compatibility with newer Android versions. This lack of updates may result in potential compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities.
2. Limited User Support: While SuperSu has a large user base, the level of user support is relatively limited. As a result, if you encounter any issues or need help, you may struggle to find timely assistance.
3. Closed Source Binary: While the SuperSu source code is open-source, the binary files that are required to root your device are closed-source. This lack of transparency may raise concerns among privacy-conscious users.
4. Potential System Instability: Rooting your device with SuperSu may lead to system instability if not done correctly or if incompatible root modifications are installed. This can result in unexpected crashes or performance issues.

It’s important to carefully consider these pros and cons before deciding to use SuperSu as your rooting tool. While it offers many benefits such as easy installation and root access management, the lack of updates and potential system instability are factors to keep in mind. Ultimately, the choice of a rooting tool depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Magisk

Magisk, just like SuperSu, comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Magisk a popular rooting tool and some of the potential drawbacks you should be aware of:

Pros of Magisk:

1. Systemless Root: One of the biggest advantages of Magisk is its ability to achieve systemless root. This means that Magisk modifies the boot image without actually altering the system partition. As a result, you can enjoy root access and use various root-enabled applications while still being able to pass SafetyNet checks and system integrity checks.
2. Magisk Modules: Magisk introduces the concept of Magisk Modules, which are essentially add-on packages that can be installed to add new features or modify the behavior of your rooted device. These modules allow for easy customization, making it possible to enhance your Android experience with themes, performance tweaks, and even additional security features.
3. Magisk Hide: Magisk Hide is a feature that allows you to hide the rooting status from certain apps or services that might block or refuse to work on rooted devices. This way, you can still use apps like banking applications, Google Pay, and other apps that usually do not work on rooted devices.
4. OTA Updates: Magisk is designed to be compatible with OTA (Over-The-Air) updates. This means that you can still receive and install official system updates on your rooted device without any issues. Magisk preserves the system partition, making it easier to retain root access even after installing the latest firmware updates.
5. Open-source Community: Magisk has a large and active open-source community that develops and maintains various Magisk Modules. This community-driven approach ensures that there is a wide range of modules available for users to choose from, allowing them to customize their Android devices according to their preferences.

Cons of Magisk:

1. Complex Installation: Compared to SuperSu, the installation process of Magisk can be more complex and requires some technical knowledge. It involves patching the boot image, flashing Magisk, and installing the Magisk Manager app. Although there are detailed guides available, it may be challenging for beginners or less tech-savvy users.
2. Limited Support: While Magisk has a large community, the official support provided by the developer team is limited. If you encounter any issues or need assistance, you will have to rely on the community forums or third-party resources. This may result in delays or less reliable support compared to SuperSu.
3. Compatibility Issues: While Magisk aims to be compatible with various devices, there can still be compatibility issues with certain Android devices or specific firmware versions. It is important to do thorough research and ensure that your device is compatible with Magisk before proceeding with the rooting process.
4. Safety Risks: Rooting your device with Magisk can potentially expose your device to security risks if not done properly. Granting root access to apps without proper caution can lead to malicious apps gaining control over your device. It’s crucial to exercise caution and only grant root access to trusted apps or modules.
5. Prolonged Root Detection: While Magisk Hide can help hide the root status from certain apps, there is always a risk of those apps detecting the presence of root access. This can result in app functionalities being limited or restricted. It is important to consider the apps you heavily rely on and their compatibility with rooted devices before opting for Magisk.

While Magisk offers many benefits, it also presents some challenges and risks. It’s essential to weigh these pros and cons and consider your own requirements and comfort level with rooting before making a decision. Additionally, always make sure to thoroughly research and understand the rooting process and its implications for your device’s security and warranty.

Comparison and Verdict

After examining the features, functionality, performance, compatibility, system updates, and security of both SuperSu and Magisk, it’s time to compare the two and come to a verdict. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two rooting tools:

Performance and Stability Comparison:

SuperSu	Magisk
– It has been a reliable and popular choice for many years	– Magisk has gained popularity for its focus on systemless rooting
– Some users have reported occasional performance issues	– Generally, Magisk is known for its stability and smooth performance
– It may cause compatibility issues with certain devices or ROMs	– Magisk is designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices and ROMs
– Updates are less frequent, which may affect optimization and bug fixes	– Regular updates provide ongoing improvements for performance and stability

In terms of performance and stability, both SuperSu and Magisk have their strengths. SuperSu has been a trusted option for a long time, but some users have reported occasional performance issues, and it may not be as compatible with certain devices or ROMs. On the other hand, Magisk has gained popularity for its systemless rooting approach, which enhances stability and compatibility with various devices and ROMs. Magisk’s regular updates also contribute to its overall performance and stability.

Compatibility and System Updates Comparison:

SuperSu	Magisk
– Compatibility varies depending on the device and ROM	– Designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices and ROMs
– May not support the latest Android versions or security patches	– Regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest Android versions and security patches
– Some users have reported issues with system updates	– Magisk’s systemless rooting approach minimizes the risk of issues with system updates

When it comes to compatibility and system updates, Magisk has a clear advantage. While SuperSu’s compatibility can vary depending on the device and ROM, Magisk is designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices and ROMs. Additionally, Magisk’s regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest Android versions and security patches, minimizing the risk of issues with system updates.

Security and Safety Comparison:

SuperSu	Magisk
– Provides basic root access management features	– Offers advanced systemless root management and hiding features
– Does not have built-in SafetyNet bypass	– Magisk provides SafetyNet bypass, allowing the use of apps that require SafetyNet verification
– Some users have reported potential security vulnerabilities	– Magisk’s focus on systemless root management enhances security and reduces the risk of vulnerabilities

When it comes to security and safety, Magisk takes the lead. While SuperSu provides basic root access management features, Magisk offers advanced systemless root management and hiding features. Magisk also includes a built-in SafetyNet bypass, which allows users to use apps that require SafetyNet verification. Magisk’s focus on systemless root management enhances security and reduces the risk of potential vulnerabilities.

Based on the comparison of SuperSu and Magisk, it’s clear that both rooting tools have their strengths and weaknesses. SuperSu offers reliability with a long-standing reputation, but it may have occasional performance issues and compatibility concerns. Magisk, on the other hand, provides stable performance, wide compatibility, regular system updates, advanced root management features, and improved security.

Ultimately, the choice between SuperSu and Magisk depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize stability, compatibility, and advanced features, Magisk may be the better option. However, if you value reliability and are willing to accept occasional performance issues, SuperSu could still be a viable choice. Consider the pros and cons discussed earlier before making your decision.

Remember, the process of rooting your Android device carries risks, and it’s essential to follow instructions carefully and backup your data before proceeding. Choose the method that aligns with your device’s specifications, your requirements, and your level of comfort. Happy rooting!

Conclusion

In the battle of rooting tools for Android, SuperSu and Magisk both offer unique features and functionality. However, when it comes to performance and stability, Magisk takes the lead with its systemless root approach. It allows users to enjoy root access without compromising the stability of their device.

On the other hand, SuperSu has a long-standing reputation in the rooting community and offers a simple and straightforward installation process. It provides granular control over root access, allowing users to manage and revoke permissions easily.

When it comes to compatibility and system updates, Magisk again comes out on top. It is designed to work seamlessly with OTA updates and retains root access even after system updates. SuperSu, on the other hand, may require reinstallation after system updates, which can be a hassle for some users.

In terms of security and safety, both tools prioritize user safety. SuperSu offers features like PIN protection and auto-deny root access to unknown apps, while Magisk provides advanced security features like MagiskHide to cloak root status from specific apps.

In summary:

• SuperSu offers a simple and user-friendly experience with comprehensive root management features. However, it may not be as compatible with system updates as Magisk.
• Magisk provides a systemless root solution that offers better stability and compatibility with OTA updates. It also offers advanced security features.

Ultimately, the choice between SuperSu and Magisk depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences. Both tools have their strengths and weaknesses, and users should evaluate them based on their priorities and device requirements.

Whether you decide to go with SuperSu or Magisk, it’s important to remember that rooting your Android device comes with risks. It can void your warranty, expose your device to security vulnerabilities, and may result in the loss of data or bricking your device if not done correctly.

Before proceeding with rooting, it’s crucial to thoroughly research and understand the process, take necessary precautions, and backup your data to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is SuperSu and Magisk?
   SuperSu and Magisk are both rooting tools used for gaining root access on Android devices. SuperSu is an older tool that grants root access to specific apps, while Magisk is a newer alternative that provides systemless root access.
2. Which tool is better, SuperSu or Magisk?
   The choice between SuperSu and Magisk depends on your specific needs. SuperSu is simpler to use and works well for older Android versions, but it may not be compatible with the latest Android versions. Magisk, on the other hand, offers systemless root access and is compatible with most Android versions.
3. What are the advantages of using Magisk over SuperSu?
   Magisk offers several advantages over SuperSu. It provides systemless root access, allowing you to use apps that normally wouldn’t work on rooted devices, such as banking apps. Magisk also supports modules, which are add-ons that allow you to customize and enhance your device’s functionality.
4. Is rooting my Android device with SuperSu or Magisk safe?
   Rooting your Android device with either SuperSu or Magisk comes with some risks. It can void your device warranty, expose your device to potential security vulnerabilities, and may cause instability if not done properly. It is crucial to follow instructions carefully and understand the risks involved before proceeding with rooting.
5. Can I uninstall SuperSu or Magisk after rooting my device?
   Yes, both SuperSu and Magisk can be uninstalled after rooting your device. However, it is important to note that unrooting your device may not completely remove all traces of root access, and some apps may still detect that your device was previously rooted.