Quicksilver Kernel for Redmi Note 8 (Ginkgo): Performance Meets Battery Efficiency Introduction The Redmi Note 8 (codenamed ginkgo ) remains a beloved budget smartphone thanks to its capable Snapdragon 665 chipset and active custom development community. Among the many custom kernels available, Quicksilver Kernel has emerged as a standout choice for users seeking a balance between raw performance, thermal stability, and battery endurance. Developed with a focus on low-latency responsiveness and efficient resource management, Quicksilver aims to unlock the full potential of the SDM665 without compromising daily usability. Key Features 1. Enhanced CPU & CPU Governor Tweaks
Custom Governors: Includes advanced governors like schedutil , pwrutilx , and darkutil for better workload prediction. CPU Boost: Improved input boost mechanism that reduces lag when opening apps or typing, without excessive power drain. Undervolting Support: Allows advanced users to reduce voltage for lower temperatures.
2. GPU Overclocking & Optimization
GPU Freq: Overclocked Adreno 610 from 950 MHz to ~1050 MHz (stable on most bins). Simple_LMK: Better low memory killer management for gaming with 4GB RAM variants. GPU Idle: Deeper idle states to save power while screen is on but static. Quicksilver Kernel Redmi Note 8
3. Memory & I/O Improvements
ZRAM optimization: Improved LZ4/LZ0 algorithm for faster swap compression. I/O Schedulers: Maple, Zen, and FIOPS for faster read/write speeds on eMMC storage. Direct Memory Access (DMA) tweaks for smoother media playback.
4. Network & Power Management
TCP Congestion Algorithms: BBR, Westwood, and Cubic – BBR recommended for mixed mobile/WiFi use. WakeLock Blocker: Built-in blocker for misbehaving drivers (e.g., qcom_rx_wakelock) to reduce idle drain. Fast Charge: Increases charging current slightly (up to 2100mA on supported chargers) without overheating.
Performance Analysis | Aspect | Stock Kernel | Quicksilver Kernel | |--------|--------------|--------------------| | AnTuTu (v10) | ~220k | ~245k | | Geekbench 6 (Single/Multi) | 340 / 1250 | 370 / 1350 | | PUBG Mobile (Smooth + 60fps) | Drops to 45fps | Stable 55–60fps | | Idle Drain (per hour) | 0.8–1.2% | 0.4–0.7% | | Screen-on Time (SOT) | 6–7 hrs | 8–9.5 hrs |
Results vary by ROM and battery health.
Battery Life & Thermal Behavior One of Quicksilver’s strongest suits is thermal throttling management . The kernel uses a relaxed thermal engine profile, meaning the device gets warm under heavy gaming but avoids sudden frame drops. On light tasks (social media, YouTube), the CPU spends more time in deep sleep, significantly extending battery life compared to stock or CAF-based kernels. Compatibility
Devices: Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo) – does not support Redmi Note 8T (willow) without a specific build. ROMs: Works on AOSP, LineageOS, Pixel Experience, crDroid, Evolution X, and most Android 12/13/14 custom ROMs. Android Versions: Available for Android 12, 13, and 14 (check XDA thread for latest build). Recovery: Flash via OrangeFox or TWRP.