Head-to-head · Privacy-Focused Operating Systems
CalyxOS vs /e/OS
CalyxOS leads on 0 checks, /e/OS on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreCalyxOS · 8.9/10
- Free planboth
CalyxOS scores higher on our rubric for privacy-focused operating systems: 8.9 against 8.8 out of 10; our editors rank them #5 and #6.
CalyxOS is the better fit for android users wanting practical privacy controls. /e/OS is the better fit for android users seeking Google-service alternatives.
- CalyxOS fits best
Android users wanting practical privacy controls
- /e/OS fits best
Android users seeking Google-service alternatives
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Side by side
| Feature | CalyxOS 8.9/10 Visit ↗ | /e/OS 8.8/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 8.9 | 8.8 |
| Ranking | #5 in Privacy-Focused Operating Systems | #6 in Privacy-Focused Operating Systems |
| Best for | Android users wanting practical privacy controls | Android users seeking Google-service alternatives |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Starting price | Free plan | Free plan |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Mobile | Mobile, Cloud, Browser extension |
| Platforms | Android | Android, Web |
| Integrations | 7 integrations | 3 integrations |
| Built for | Solo, Small business | Solo, Small business |
| Specs | ||
| Platform | Mobile | Mobile |
| Isolation approach | Standard | Standard |
| Device support | Selected devices | Selected devices |
| Default telemetry | None stated | None stated |
| Installation method | Multiple | Multiple |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | CalyxOS is a free, open-source Android operating system from the Calyx Institute for people who want more control over privacy and security on a phone. It is aimed at everyday Android users, including solo users and small organizations,… Read the review → |
/e/OS is an open-source mobile operating system based on Android and LineageOS/AOSP, designed for people who want an Android app environment with less reliance on Google services. It replaces Google services with microG and alternatives,… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
CalyxOS — where it wins
- Verified boot and bootloader relocking support device integrity.
- Per-app network controls and privacy-oriented DNS, VPN, and Tor options.
- SeedVault encrypted backups and Work Profile app separation.
Where it doesn't
- Installs only on selected Pixel, Fairphone, Motorola, and SHIFTphone devices.
- microG can send data to Google when enabled.
- Requires installing a different operating system on compatible hardware.
/e/OS — where it wins
- Replaces Google services with microG and alternative services
- App Lounge shows tracker and permission information
- Advanced Privacy controls cover trackers, location and IP address
Where it doesn't
- Installation is limited to supported devices
- Cloud services are optional separate offerings
- Some services require users to self-host
- CalyxOS8.9/10 · Free plan
A free Android OS with practical privacy controls for users of selected devices.
Visit CalyxOSFull verdict → - /e/OS8.8/10 · Free plan
An Android-compatible alternative that replaces Google services with microG and privacy controls.
Visit /e/OSFull verdict →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update