How to Install TWRP and Root Xperia X Performance (dora) using SuperSU or Magisk

An official build of TWRP recovery for Xperia X Performance is now available for download, thanks to the folks over at TeamWin, the official maintainers of TWRP recovery.

With TWRP now available you can also root Xperia X Performance by simply flashing SuperSU zip from the recovery. Or if you’d like to play Pokémon Go and use Android Pay while rooted, then get root via Magisk systemless interface instead of SuperSU. This way you’ll be able to bypass safetynet check, thanks to Magisk’s ability to disable root on-the-fly when needed.

Note: While installing TWRP recovery and rooting your Xperia X Performance, you might have to wipe/delete all data on your phone. So make sure you backup all important files on your phone before proceeding. This includes photos, videos, music and other files.

How to Install Xperia X Performance TWRP recovery and get Root

[icon name=”download” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] Download Xperia X Performance TWRP Recovery (.img)

  1. Unlock bootloader:
    1. Go to Settings » About phone and tap seven times on Build number to enable Developer options.
    2. From Settings, go into Developer options and enable USB debugging and OEM Unlocking.
    3. Setup ADB and Fastboot on your PC.
    4. Open the official Sony bootloader unlock help page on your PC ─ link .
    5. Provide your email address on the page, accept the terms and conditions and then hit the continue button.
    6. Sony will now send you an email with a link for further instructions to unlock bootloader. Open that link and follow the instructions carefully.
  2. Once you’ve unlocked bootloader on your Xperia X Performance, install the TWRP recovery .img file via Fastboot mode. Follow the link below:
    [icon name=”hand-o-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] Install/flash TWRP recovery .img via Fastboot
  3. Boot into TWRP recovery and take a full nandroid backup of your device using TWRP’s Backup option.
  4. Get root access: There are two ways you can root Xperia X Performance. Read the descriptions of both carefully before you decide.
    1. SuperSU zip – If you just want root access and want it quick without workarounds to Safetynet to be able to use Android Pay or play Pokémon Go while rooted. Then getting root via SuperSU zip would serve the purpose. Follow the link below for detailed step-by-step guide.
      [icon name=”hand-o-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] How to Flash SuperSU zip and get Root on any Android device
    2. Magisk systemless interface (recommended) – Getting root via Magisk systemless interface means you can disable root access on-the-fly when needed. This is particularly useful for apps that don’t work when your Android phone is rooted. Follow the link below for a detailed guide to get root with Magisk.
      [icon name=”hand-o-right” class=”” unprefixed_class=””] How to Get Root with Magisk Systemless Interface

That’s all. Have fun with TWRP recovery and root access on your Xperia X Performance.

Happy Androiding! 

Posted by
Shivam Malani

Shivam is our resident designer and web developer who also enjoys writing. He loves to meditate, drive on the freeways and hunt for snipers during his Call Of Duty playtime. Email: [email protected]