Last Updated on January 30, 2026 by Tabassum Tonny
If you are still using a Samsung Galaxy Note 4, you already know the pain.
The phone is powerful, the S Pen is iconic, but the official software support ended years ago. That means no security updates, outdated apps, and missing modern Android features.
However, here’s the good news:
You can still run Android 10 on Samsung Note 4 using custom ROMs.
In this guide, you’ll learn the Samsung Note 4 Android 10 installing process step by step. This article is written for real users, not developers—so everything is explained in simple language, with real-world examples, risks, and solutions.
Whether your intent is informational, navigational, or commercial, this guide will help you decide if, why, and how to upgrade safely.
“Old hardware doesn’t mean outdated experience—if software is done right.”
What Is Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10?
Samsung officially stopped updates for Note 4 at Android 6.0 Marshmallow.
Android 10 on Note 4 is made possible by custom ROM developers using AOSP (Android Open Source Project).
What This Means for You
If you’re looking to breathe new life into your Android device, consider installing a custom ROM instead of Samsung’s official firmware. This community-driven software offers various benefits, allowing users to enjoy modern features even on older hardware. Popular options include LineageOS 17.1, which provides a clean and customizable interface, the unofficial Pixel Experience that mimics the stock Google experience, and Resurrection Remix, which combines features from multiple sources for a unique experience.
These ROMs not only enhance the performance of older devices but also introduce a range of modern capabilities that are typically unavailable through the manufacturer’s software. By choosing a custom ROM, you’re opting for a more personalized and adaptable Android experience, helping you to extend the life of your device. This approach not only keeps your smartphone relevant but also engages a growing community of tech enthusiasts who share tips and support.
Why Install Android 10 on Samsung Galaxy Note 4?
1. Improved Privacy Controls
Android 10 significantly enhances user privacy through powerful new controls. One of the main features is app permission management, allowing users to decide which apps can access sensitive information like location, contacts, or camera. This gives individuals greater control over their personal data.
Additionally, location access limitations ensure apps can only track your whereabouts while actively in use, reducing unnecessary surveillance. The introduction of background activity restrictions further bolsters privacy by limiting how often apps can function in the background. These improvements make Android 10 a more secure and user-friendly platform, promoting confidence in managing personal information.
2. Better App Compatibility
Android 10 significantly improves app compatibility, a crucial upgrade for many users. As numerous popular U.S.-based applications now require Android 8 or higher, installing Android 10 ensures that essential banking apps function properly, maintaining secure transactions.
Furthermore, Google apps benefit from regular updates, ensuring you have access to the latest features and improvements. Social media platforms also operate seamlessly, offering a smooth and enjoyable user experience. By upgrading to Android 10, you not only enhance your device’s performance but also ensure that it remains compatible with the apps that matter most in your daily life.
3. Performance Boost
One of the most noticeable advantages of upgrading to an Android 10 custom ROM is the significant performance boost it offers compared to Samsung’s older TouchWiz-based firmware. Android 10 ROMs are generally lighter, cleaner, and free from unnecessary background processes, which allows the device to run more efficiently.
As a result, users often experience faster boot times, smoother app launching, and improved RAM management, even on older Samsung smartphones. Lag and random stutters are greatly reduced, making everyday tasks like browsing, messaging, and multitasking feel more responsive.
In a real-world scenario, a U.S.-based user reported nearly a 30–40% smoother overall experience after switching from stock Android Marshmallow to LineageOS 17.1. This upgrade transformed the phone into a more reliable and enjoyable daily-use device.
Before You Beging
Before starting the Android installation process on your Samsung Galaxy Note 4, it is essential to read and understand all instructions carefully. Installing a custom ROM will void the device warranty, although most Note 4 models are already out of warranty due to their age.
Following incorrect steps or skipping essential instructions may result in a bricked device that fails to boot properly. This is why creating a full backup of your data is mandatory before proceeding, ensuring your files, apps, and settings remain safe. Despite these risks, thousands of users worldwide successfully complete this process every year and enjoy improved performance, stability, and modern Android features on their devices.
Supported Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Models
Not all Samsung Galaxy Note 4 variants are built the same, and this difference plays a major role in Android 10 compatibility and overall performance. Models powered by Exynos chipsets usually offer stronger custom ROM support and a smoother experience. Among them, the N910C is considered the best choice, followed closely by the N910F with excellent stability.
The N910G delivers good performance but may have minor limitations. Snapdragon-based models like the N910T have limited Android 10 support, while the N910P is considered risky due to hardware restrictions. To avoid installation issues, always check your exact model by going to Settings, then About Phone, and locating the Model Number before proceeding.
What You Need
Before installing Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10 on your Samsung Galaxy Note 4, proper preparation is essential to ensure a smooth and error-free process. You will need access to a Windows PC or Mac, along with the original USB cable to maintain a stable connection during installation. Make sure your device has at least 70% battery to prevent unexpected shutdowns.
You should also download all required files in advance, including TWRP Recovery for the Note 4, a reliable Android 10 ROM such as LineageOS, compatible Google Apps for Android 10, and the Odin tool if you are using Windows. Keeping all files organized in one folder helps avoid confusion and saves time.
Step-by-Step Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10 Installing Process
Step 1: Backup Everything
Before starting the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10 installation on your Samsung Galaxy Note 4, creating a complete backup of your data is the most important step. This process may erase everything on your device, including contacts, photos, videos, WhatsApp chats, and files stored in internal storage.
To avoid permanent data loss, ensure all important information is safely backed up in advance. You can use Google Backup to sync contacts and app data, Samsung Smart Switch for a full device backup, or manually copy your files to a PC for extra security. Taking time to back up properly gives peace of mind and allows you to continue the upgrade process with confidence.
Step 2: Unlock Bootloader
In the second step, you need to understand the bootloader status of your Samsung Galaxy Note 4. Most Exynos-based Note 4 models come with an unlocked bootloader by default, which makes installing a custom recovery and Android 10 ROM much easier.
However, Snapdragon variants, especially U.S. carrier models, often have bootloader restrictions imposed by the carrier. These limitations may prevent unlocking or require additional workarounds. Before proceeding, it is important to confirm whether your specific model supports bootloader unlocking. Knowing this in advance helps avoid errors, saves time, and ensures a smoother and safer Android 10 installation experience.
Step 3: Install TWRP Recovery
Installing TWRP Recovery on your Samsung device is easier than it sounds, even for beginners. First, make sure your phone is completely powered off. Then, press and hold the Volume Down, Home, and Power buttons together to enter download mode. On your PC, open Odin and carefully load the TWRP .tar file.
Once everything is ready, click the Start button and wait for the process to complete. After it finishes, it’s important to boot into recovery immediately by pressing Volume Up, Home, and Power simultaneously. This ensures TWRP is installed correctly and your device is ready for customizations. By following these steps, even new users can enjoy a smooth, safe installation without confusion, making your Android experience smarter and more flexible.
Step 4: Wipe Old System (Critical Step)
After successfully installing TWRP, the next step is critical: wiping the old system. In TWRP, navigate to Wipe and then select Advanced Wipe. Here, carefully choose Dalvik Cache, System, Data, and Cache to ensure your device is fully cleared for a fresh ROM installation. It’s very important not to wipe your Internal Storage unless your new ROM is stored on an SD card, as deleting internal files can result in permanent data loss.
Taking this step ensures your phone runs smoothly, prevents errors during installation, and prepares your device for optimal performance. Even beginners can follow this process confidently, making Android customization safe, easy, and highly efficient. By guiding users clearly and safely, your website content will attract organic traffic and provide a trustworthy, user-friendly experience that boosts engagement and monetization.
Step 5: Flash Android 10 ROM
Flashing Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10 ROM is simple and safe when done carefully. In TWRP, select Install, choose your ROM ZIP, and swipe to flash. Wait patiently for two to five minutes without interrupting the process. This ensures a smooth, fully optimized Android 10 experience, making your device faster, stable, and ready for daily use.
Step 6: Flash GApps
After flashing the ROM, it’s time to install GApps for Google services. In TWRP, select Install and choose the GApps ZIP, then swipe to flash. Opt for Nano or Pico versions to keep your device fast and smooth. This step completes your setup, ensuring full Android functionality with minimal impact on performance.
Step 7: Reboot and First Boot
Once all installations are complete, reboot your device to start Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10. The first boot may take five to ten minutes, so be patient. Congratulations! Your phone now runs a fresh, fully optimized Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10 system, ready for daily use with smooth performance and complete Google functionality.
Post-Installation Setup Tips
After installing Android 10, let your device settle for 10–15 minutes to stabilize the system. Reboot once after initial setup, disable unused apps to free up resources, and enable battery optimization for longer performance. These simple steps ensure your phone runs smoothly, efficiently, and delivers the best daily experience.
Is Android 10 Safe for Daily Use?
Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Android 10 is safe for daily use when installed properly. While security patches may not arrive monthly, it remains significantly safer than older versions like Android 6 and fully compatible with modern U.S. apps. With proper setup, users can enjoy a secure, stable, and efficient Android experience every day.
Who Should Install Android 10 on Note 4?
Android 10 on the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 is ideal for tech enthusiasts, budget-conscious users in the U.S., secondary phone users, and developers or testers who want to explore modern features on older hardware. It brings updated performance, compatibility with contemporary apps, and a fresh Android experience. However, it is not recommended for those relying on carrier-locked devices or phones used for mission-critical tasks like banking, as stability and official security updates may be limited. By understanding who benefits most, users can make an informed choice, enjoy a secure and optimized system, and safely experiment with Android 10 on their Note 4.
FAQ Section
Can Samsung Note 4 run Android 10 smoothly?
Yes, especially Exynos variants with LineageOS.
Is rooting required?
Root is optional. Android 10 ROM works without root.
Will Samsung apps work?
Most Samsung apps won’t. Google alternatives work fine.
Is this legal in the United States?
Yes. Custom ROM installation is legal for personal use.
Can I downgrade back?
Yes, by flashing stock firmware via Odin.
Final Touch
Upgrading your Samsung Galaxy Note 4 to Android 10 is a safe and effective way to breathe new life into your device. By carefully following the step-by-step guide, installing TWRP, flashing a custom ROM, and adding GApps, even beginners can enjoy a faster, smoother, and modern Android experience.
Post-installation tips like disabling unused apps and enabling battery optimization ensure long-term stability and efficiency. Whether you are a tech enthusiast, a U.S.-based budget user, or a developer, Android 10 keeps your device relevant, secure, and compatible with modern apps, transforming your Note 4 into a reliable daily driver.
Leave a Reply