📱 Mobile OS Open source Privacy ★★★★
CalyxOS
Privacy OS with microG included
Overview
CalyxOS includes microG by default, Seedvault encrypted backup, DuckDuckGo as default search, and simplified privacy defaults.
Less strict than GrapheneOS but easier migration for privacy-minded mainstream users on Pixel and Fairphone.
Founded with involvement from GrapheneOS’s original leadership—pragmatic middle path.
Scores
Privacy 4/5
Ease of use 4/5
Features 4/5
Value 5/5
Android（OS） — comparison
No Google account required on device; microG reduces but does not eliminate Google API dependency.
Pros
- ✓ microG makes many apps work immediately
- ✓ Seedvault encrypted backups
- ✓ Easier onboarding than GrapheneOS
- ✓ Privacy settings optimized from first boot
Cons & caveats
- − Limited to Pixel, Fairphone, and select models
- − microG still uses Google APIs in places
- − Less kernel hardening than GrapheneOS
Best for
- Pixel/Fairphone owners
- Compatibility plus privacy balance
- First privacy-focused custom ROM
Not ideal for
- Zero Google network communication
- Unsupported phone models
Specs
- Pricing
- Free — Completely free.
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Data location
- On-device; microG contacts Google servers in limited ways when used.
- Platforms
- Pixel · Fairphone · 選択端末
microG同梱Seedvault バックアップDuckDuckGoデフォルト検索
Migration from Android（OS）
- 1 Verify device support at calyxos.org
- 2 Download and flash CalyxOS image
- 3 Set up without Google account
- 4 Install additional apps from F-Droid as needed
Setup steps
- 1 Prepare supported Pixel or Fairphone device
- 2 Flash CalyxOS after bootloader unlock
- 3 Configure Seedvault backup
- 4 Test microG-dependent apps and adjust settings
Related on Amazon
Books and devices that may help your migration. Verify specs and price before buying.
- Devices
Google Pixel 8a
Supported by GrapheneOS and CalyxOS—a common hardware choice for de-Googling.
View on Amazon ↗ - Devices
Google Pixel 9
Latest Pixel line—check GrapheneOS official support before purchase.
View on Amazon ↗ - Devices
Fairphone 5
Works with CalyxOS and iodéOS—repairable, ethically sourced hardware.
View on Amazon ↗