We have a problem: there are a ridiculous number of ROMs available, spanning 6 different versions of Android, each with their own pros and cons. There are so many choices that I imagine it must be completely overwhelming to someone who is new to custom ROMs, coming here to try to breathe life back into their device. (I find it overwhelming and I've been on XDA since 2007.)
So, I'm asking those of you who have tried and tested the many ROMs available for the Xperia Ray to please share the wisdom of your experience for the benefit of all.
This isn't a "what ROM is best" thread, because I know that specific ROMs fit specific purposes, i.e. if you absolutely want the latest Android features, you want a Kitkat ROM (perhaps at the expensive of speed). The idea is more to give people a place to start looking, i.e. if they know they need FM radio they should rule out any ROM based on Android 4.1+, and some recommendations given specific needs. If you recommend specific ROMs, please try to mention at least 2 different ones (and if you're the author, please disclose that so we know you're plugging your own ROM).
To spark your thoughts, consider your answers to any of the following questions. If we get enough people answering, I'll edit this post to add in general consensus answers to have a quick guide in place for other users looking for a new ROM.
Q: What Android versions provide full functionality of stock hardware, i.e. FM radio, 720p video recording.
- My understanding is that for FM radio to work, you need to be on Gingerbread or ICS. (Not sure on 720p video.)
Q: What Android versions or specific ROMs are the fastest (as in quickly responsive UI)?
- My impression (from thread comments) is that Gingerbread is still the fastest, but suffers in terms of battery life.
Q: What Android versions generally have the best battery life?
Q: What Android versions or specific ROMs offer the best performance for gaming only?
Q: What ROMs offer the best combination of speed, stability and battery life for day-to-day use?
- For example, if you're giving the phone to your girlfriend, you can't go wrong with <insert recommendation> or <insert recommendation>.
If you can think of other questions to help people with their decision-making, feel free to mention them and I'll add them to the list.
So, I'm asking those of you who have tried and tested the many ROMs available for the Xperia Ray to please share the wisdom of your experience for the benefit of all.
This isn't a "what ROM is best" thread, because I know that specific ROMs fit specific purposes, i.e. if you absolutely want the latest Android features, you want a Kitkat ROM (perhaps at the expensive of speed). The idea is more to give people a place to start looking, i.e. if they know they need FM radio they should rule out any ROM based on Android 4.1+, and some recommendations given specific needs. If you recommend specific ROMs, please try to mention at least 2 different ones (and if you're the author, please disclose that so we know you're plugging your own ROM).
To spark your thoughts, consider your answers to any of the following questions. If we get enough people answering, I'll edit this post to add in general consensus answers to have a quick guide in place for other users looking for a new ROM.
Q: What Android versions provide full functionality of stock hardware, i.e. FM radio, 720p video recording.
- My understanding is that for FM radio to work, you need to be on Gingerbread or ICS. (Not sure on 720p video.)
Q: What Android versions or specific ROMs are the fastest (as in quickly responsive UI)?
- My impression (from thread comments) is that Gingerbread is still the fastest, but suffers in terms of battery life.
Q: What Android versions generally have the best battery life?
Q: What Android versions or specific ROMs offer the best performance for gaming only?
Q: What ROMs offer the best combination of speed, stability and battery life for day-to-day use?
- For example, if you're giving the phone to your girlfriend, you can't go wrong with <insert recommendation> or <insert recommendation>.
If you can think of other questions to help people with their decision-making, feel free to mention them and I'll add them to the list.
