Custom ROMs often remove "bloatware" (pre-installed Samsung apps), freeing up the tablet's limited 1GB of RAM and reducing system lag.
Go to Install . Navigate to your microSD card. Select the Custom ROM ZIP. Swipe to flash. Once done, go back and flash the GApps ZIP (if you want Google Play).
: Official updates for the SM-T116 stopped years ago, but custom ROMs can bring you up to Android 7.1.2 Nougat App Compatibility samsung galaxy tab 3 lite smt116 custom rom better
Many ROMs include advanced customization options like dark mode, gesture controls, and enhanced battery management tools. Popular ROM Options for SM-T116 Base Version LineageOS (Unofficial) Android 7.1.2+ Stability and a "clean" Android experience. crDroid Android 7.1.2+
Choose and tick the boxes for Dalvik / ART Cache, System, Cache, and Data . Select the Custom ROM ZIP
Most SM-T116 custom kernels allow the GPU to clock from 240MHz to 320MHz, making video playback smoother.
: In TWRP, navigate to "Wipe" → "Advanced Wipe". Select System, Data, Cache, and Dalvik Cache and swipe to wipe them. : Official updates for the SM-T116 stopped years
Modern versions of essential apps like YouTube, Netflix, and basic web browsers require a minimum of Android 5.0 or 7.0 to initialize. Upgrading to an Android 7.1.2 Nougat-based custom ROM allows you to run up-to-date apk packages and access a functional Google Play Store. 2. Drastically Lowers RAM Consumption
: Custom ROM kernels are frequently tuned to better manage the tablet's modest hardware, resulting in snappier transitions, quicker app launches, and overall smoother UI animations.
So, is it better ?
Reviving Your Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Lite (SM-T116): Why a Custom ROM is Better