Custom Roms for the S10 5G SM-G977N/B

Maximizing Gaming Performance on the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G SM-G977N/B

The Samsung Galaxy S10 5G (Model SM-G977N/B) remains a formidable device years after its release. While stock firmware provides a stable experience, the true potential of the Snapdragon 855 chipset and the X50 5G modem is often locked behind Samsung’s software optimizations and bloatware. For gamers and power users, unlocking this potential means venturing into the world of custom ROMs. We understand that the primary goal for many users is not just a newer version of Android, but raw, uncompromised gaming performance. This requires a ROM that minimizes latency, maximizes CPU/GPU scheduling, and maintains thermal efficiency.

The journey from LineageOS to CrDroid and finally to InfinityX demonstrates a clear upward trajectory in performance metrics. Each step likely introduced more aggressive kernel tweaks, custom governors, and reduced system overhead. However, the ecosystem is vast, and there are indeed options that can potentially surpass the performance of InfinityX. To find the absolute best custom ROM for the SM-G977N/B, we must analyze the architecture of the device, the requirements of modern gaming engines like Unity and Unreal, and the specific custom kernels often paired with these ROMs.

When we look at the SM-G977N/B specifically, we must note that this is the Korean variant. While it shares the Snapdragon 855 globally, carrier implementations and specific modem firmware require careful handling. A ROM that works flawlessly on the Exynos variant or the international Snapdragon variant may cause boot loops or modem failures on the N/B model if the device tree and kernel source are not correctly adapted. Therefore, our recommendations focus on builds explicitly supporting the g977b or g977n platforms.

The Hardware Architecture: Snapdragon 855 and Thermal Dynamics

To understand why certain custom ROMs perform better, we must look at the hardware. The SM-G977N/B is powered by the Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855. This chip introduced the Kryo 485 architecture, featuring a single Prime core (Cortex-A76) clocked at 2.84 GHz, three Performance cores (Cortex-A76) at 2.42 GHz, and four Efficiency cores (Cortex-A55) at 1.80 GHz. The Adreno 640 GPU handles graphics, which is still capable of running popular titles like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty: Mobile at respectable settings, provided thermal throttling is managed.

Stock Samsung firmware aggressively throttles the CPU and GPU to prevent overheating and preserve battery life. While safe, this creates a bottleneck during sustained gaming sessions. Custom ROMs often modify the thermal daemon (thermd) and CPU governors to allow higher clock speeds for longer periods. However, this comes with a risk: without proper thermal management, the device can reach temperatures that trigger emergency shutdowns or degrade the battery over time.

The most successful custom ROMs for gaming on the SM-G977N/B are those that balance raw performance with intelligent thermal management. We look for ROMs that utilize custom kernels—such as those based on the ElementaryOS or Frandom sources—optimized for the specific voltage and frequency curves of the Snapdragon 855. These kernels often include GPU overclocking capabilities and tweaked schedulers like PELT (Per Entity Load Tracking) vs. WALT (Window-Assisted Load Tracking) to better distribute tasks across the big.LITTLE architecture.

Analyzing the Current Landscape: Beyond InfinityX

The user mentioned InfinityX, a ROM known for its “Gaming Edition” builds and heavy customization. While InfinityX pushes the hardware to its limits, it is often built on top of LineageOS source code with heavy additions. To surpass this, we look for ROMs that either strip away even more overhead or introduce superior scheduling algorithms.

Project Elixir

One of the most prominent contenders in the Android 13 and 14 custom ROM scene for the S10 5G is Project Elixir. We have observed that Elixir focuses heavily on stability without sacrificing performance. Unlike some bloated custom ROMs, Elixir maintains a relatively clean codebase while incorporating specific optimizations for gaming.

• Benchmarks vs. Real-World Usage: While raw AnTuTu scores might show marginal differences (often within margin of error), the real metric for gaming is frame time consistency (1% lows). Elixir often utilizes a tweaked Linux kernel (version 6.1.x or higher) which offers better memory management and I/O scheduling.
• Thermal Management: Elixir includes a proprietary “Elixir Performance Mode” that dynamically adjusts CPU frequency based on the foreground application. For the SM-G977N/B, this translates to sustained high frame rates in shooters without the immediate thermal throttling seen in stock OneUI.

CherishOS

CherishOS is another Android 14 custom ROM that has gained traction for the S10 series. It offers a unique blend of stability and fluidity. For the SM-G977N/B, CherishOS provides a “Debloat” script during installation that removes non-essential Samsung services more aggressively than LineageOS.

• Gestures and Controls: CherishOS integrates gesture controls that are particularly useful for gaming, such as three-finger screenshots and screen recording triggers.
• Kernel Compatibility: Most builds are compatible with custom kernels like “Stock-Patch” or “Elementary,” allowing users to fine-tune GPU frequencies further. This flexibility is crucial for users looking to squeeze every MHz out of the Adreno 640.

PixelOS

If the goal is raw efficiency, PixelOS is a strong candidate. Based on AOSP, it is extremely lightweight. While it lacks the sheer number of features found in CrDroid or InfinityX, its minimalism leaves more resources available for the game engine.

• System Overhead: PixelOS has a smaller memory footprint. This means more RAM is available for games, reducing the likelihood of the Android Low Memory Killer (LMK) killing background processes or causing frame drops during gameplay.
• Pixel-exclusive Features: It includes features like Live Translate and Now Playing, which are optimized for the Snapdragon NPU, ensuring they don’t drain CPU cycles needed for gaming.

Evolution X

Evolution X has long been a staple for Samsung devices. For the S10 5G, it offers a robust suite of performance tweaks under the “Evolver” menu. This includes options to tweak the I/O scheduler to ’noop’ or ‘deadline’ (often faster for flash storage than the default ‘cfq’) and adjust the kernel’s entropy settings.

• The “Pixel” Experience: Evolution X attempts to mimic the Google Pixel experience while adding essential customizations. For the SM-G977N/B, the ROM supports the full range of Samsung’s sensors and cameras (mostly), making it a viable daily driver that doubles as a gaming rig.
• Gaming Turbo: Evolution X includes a “Gaming Turbo” 4.0 module. This module reserves CPU cores for the foreground app and blocks notifications to minimize interruptions. It is highly effective for MOBA and Battle Royale games.

The Kernel Factor: The Heart of Performance

We cannot discuss custom ROMs without highlighting the kernel. The kernel is the bridge between software and hardware. Even the best ROM will underperform with a subpar kernel. For the SM-G977N/B, the custom kernel scene is vibrant.

Elementary Kernel: This is widely regarded as one of the best for gaming. It focuses on low latency and high throughput. It often includes a “Gaming” governor that keeps the CPU frequencies locked at higher states during touch input, reducing input lag significantly.

Stock-Patch Kernel: This is a de-bloated version of the stock Samsung kernel. It retains the stability and modem compatibility of the stock firmware but removes the restrictive thermal throttling and unnecessary background services. For users who prioritize connection stability (5G) and battery life alongside gaming, this is often the best choice.

Custom Kernels with K-Lapse: Some advanced users compile kernels with K-Lapse, a RGB-based color adjustment tool that also allows for aggressive undervolting. Undervolting reduces heat generation, allowing the CPU to maintain higher clocks for longer. However, this requires careful stability testing on the specific silicon of your SM-G977N/B.

Installation Prerequisites and Safety for SM-G977N/B

Before attempting to flash any of these custom ROMs, we must emphasize the importance of preparation. The Korean variant SM-G977N/B has specific bootloader nuances compared to the global G977B.

1. Unlocking the Bootloader: This is the first step. It wipes all data (including internal storage) and trips the Knox e-fuse. Once Knox is tripped, Samsung Pay, Secure Folder, and warranty services will cease to function permanently.
2. ODIN and TWRP: You will need the ODIN tool on a Windows PC to flash the initial TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) or OrangeFox recovery. Ensure you are downloading a TWRP build specifically compiled for g977n or g977b (check the XDA Developers forum for the S10 5G). Flashing a recovery for the wrong model number can result in a hard brick.
3. Firmware Base: Most custom ROMs require a specific base firmware version (e.g., Android 12 OneUI 4.1) to be flashed via ODIN before attempting to flash the custom ROM zip. This ensures the modem and bootloader partitions are compatible.
4. Magisk and Root: For maximum gaming performance, we recommend rooting with Magisk. This allows you to use modules found in the Magisk Module Repository at Magisk Modules. Modules like “LKT” or “Universal GMS Doze” can further optimize the system.
   • Note: While we host modules at Magisk Modules, always verify the compatibility of modules with your specific Android version and custom ROM.

Specific ROM Recommendations for “Maximum Squeeze”

Based on the user’s progression from LineageOS -> CrDroid -> InfinityX, we are looking for the next step in optimization.

1. Project InfinityX V2 (or newer iterations)

If InfinityX V1 gave the best results, it is worth checking if a V2 or a “Performance Edition” exists. The developer often patches the kernel further based on user feedback. The specific “InfinityX Kernel” is often tuned for Adreno 640 overclocking.

2. LineageOS with Custom Kernel (The “Pure” Approach)

Sometimes, the ROM itself matters less than the combination. A clean LineageOS 21 (Android 14) base paired with a highly tuned custom kernel (like “Cherokee” or “Acherus”) can outperform a bloated “feature-rich” custom ROM.

• Why this works: LineageOS has very strict code guidelines, ensuring minimal bloat. By adding a custom kernel that specifically overclocks the GPU and tweaks the CPU scheduler, you create a lean, high-performance machine.
• Setup: Flash LineageOS -> Flash Custom Kernel -> Flash Magisk -> Install performance modules from the Magisk Module Repository.

3. PixelAOSP / PixelExperience Plus

For users who want a Pixel-like experience but with specific gaming tweaks, PixelExperience Plus offers a balance. It includes additional gaming optimizations not found in the standard PixelExperience. It is less likely to crash during heavy gaming sessions compared to some “extreme” ROMs.

Optimizing Further: Post-Flash Tweaks

Flashing the ROM is only half the battle. To truly surpass the performance of InfinityX, we must optimize the system environment.

Using Magisk Modules

After installing your chosen custom ROM, root the device with Magisk. Visit the Magisk Module Repository (Magisk Modules) to download essential modules:

• Busybox: Essential for many scripts.
• FPS Magisk: A module that can help stabilize frame rates by adjusting the Surface Flinger settings.
• Systemless Hosts: If you run ad-blockers, this ensures system stability while blocking ads in games.

Proprietary Build.prop Tweaks

We can manually edit build.prop files (using a terminal or Magisk module) to enhance performance:

• debug.sf.hw=1 (Enables hardware acceleration).
• video.accelerate.hw=1 (Improves video playback and game rendering).
• ro.media.dec.jpeg.memcap=80000000 (Increases memory cap for media processing).
• persist.sys.scrollingcache=3 (Optimizes scrolling fluidity).

Thermal Throttling Control

For the SM-G977N/B, heat is the enemy of sustained performance. We recommend using a thermal control app (requires root) to lower the thermal trigger points. By keeping the device cooler (around 40-45°C), the Snapdragon 855 will avoid the aggressive frequency drops that occur at stock thermal limits.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Path for the SM-G977N/B

To answer the question of whether there are custom ROMs that can surpass InfinityX: Yes, but it depends on the definition of “performance.”

If “performance” means raw FPS benchmarks and overclocking, then sticking with the InfinityX Kernel or a similar Elementary Kernel on a clean AOSP base (like LineageOS or PixelOS) is the path forward. The “best” ROM is often the one that is most stable for your specific unit of the SM-G977N/B.

We recommend the following workflow for the absolute maximum gaming performance:

1. Flash a clean OneUI firmware via ODIN to reset the device completely.
2. Flash TWRP Recovery for the S10 5G.
3. Flash a highly optimized custom ROM like Project Elixir or CherishOS (Android 13 or 14).
4. Flash a custom kernel (like Elementary or Stock-Patch) that supports overclocking.
5. Root with Magisk and visit Magisk Modules to apply system-level optimizations.

The Samsung Galaxy S10 5G SM-G977N/B is a legacy powerhouse. With the right combination of custom ROM, kernel, and Magisk modules, it can outperform many mid-range devices released today. The key lies in balancing the aggressive tuning of the Snapdragon 855 with the stability required for long gaming sessions. By carefully selecting your software stack and utilizing the resources available in the rooting community, you can indeed squeeze every drop of performance from this device.