The newer OnePlus Nord series devices (Nord 2, Nord CE series, and Nord 3) offer excellent value and performance, but rooting them requires model-specific approaches due to different processors and security implementations. This comprehensive guide covers all major Nord variants released after the original Nord.

⚠️ Critical Warning for Newer Nord Models

Important differences from original Nord:

  • MediaTek-powered models have different unlock procedures
  • Some models have enhanced anti-rollback protection
  • ColorOS-based OxygenOS may behave differently
  • Warranty void is permanent and irreversible
  • Some carrier models cannot be unlocked

Device Identification and Compatibility

Before proceeding, identify your exact Nord model as procedures vary significantly:

OnePlus Nord 2

Medium

Model Numbers: DN2103 (Global), DN2101 (India)

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI

Android: OxygenOS 11/12/13 based on Android 11/12/13

✅ Rooting Status:
  • Bootloader unlockable
  • TWRP available
  • Magisk compatible
  • Good community support
⚠️ Considerations:
  • MediaTek-specific procedures
  • Anti-rollback protection
  • Limited custom ROM options

OnePlus Nord CE Series

Easy

Models: Nord CE (EB2101), Nord CE 2 (CPH2401), Nord CE 2 Lite (CPH2409)

Processor: Snapdragon 750G/695/Dimensity 900

Android: OxygenOS 11/12/13

✅ Rooting Status:
  • Easy bootloader unlock
  • Standard fastboot procedure
  • Good TWRP support
  • Stable Magisk compatibility
💡 Advantages:
  • Similar to original Nord process
  • Fewer security restrictions
  • Better custom ROM support

OnePlus Nord 3

Hard

Model Number: CPH2493

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9000

Android: OxygenOS 13.1 based on Android 13

✅ Rooting Status:
  • Bootloader unlockable
  • TWRP in development
  • Magisk compatible
  • Active development community
⚠️ Challenges:
  • Enhanced security features
  • Limited recovery options
  • Newer MediaTek restrictions

Prerequisites and Preparation

Required Tools and Software

  • ADB and Fastboot: Latest Android SDK Platform Tools
  • OnePlus USB Drivers: Official drivers from OnePlus
  • Model-Specific TWRP: Correct recovery for your exact model
  • Magisk: Latest stable version (v26.0+)
  • Stock Firmware: Full OxygenOS ROM for emergency recovery
  • MTK Client (for MediaTek models): Additional tool for MediaTek devices

Device Preparation Steps

  1. 1Verify exact model number in Settings > About Phone
  2. 2Enable Developer Options (tap Build Number 7 times)
  3. 3Enable USB Debugging in Developer Options
  4. 4Enable OEM Unlocking (if available)
  5. 5Charge device to at least 80% battery
  6. 6Create complete backup of all important data
  7. 7Download correct firmware and recovery files
💡 Pro Tip: MediaTek-powered Nord models (Nord 2, Nord 3) may require additional steps and tools compared to Snapdragon variants. Always verify your processor type before proceeding.

Bootloader Unlocking Process

Universal OnePlus Nord Unlock Method

Most newer Nord models follow the standard OnePlus unlock procedure:

  1. Connect device to computer via USB
  2. Open command prompt in ADB folder
  3. Verify device connection:
adb devices
  1. Boot into fastboot mode:
adb reboot bootloader
  1. Verify fastboot connection:
fastboot devices
  1. Unlock bootloader:
fastboot flashing unlock
  1. Use volume keys to select "Unlock the bootloader"
  2. Press power button to confirm
  3. Device will factory reset and reboot

MediaTek-Specific Considerations

For Nord 2 and Nord 3 (MediaTek models), additional steps may be required:

⚠️ MediaTek Security: Some MediaTek-powered Nord models have additional security measures that may require specific unlock procedures or tools. Check XDA forums for your exact model before proceeding.

Custom Recovery Installation

TWRP Installation for Nord Series

After successful bootloader unlock, install TWRP custom recovery:

  1. Download correct TWRP for your specific Nord model
  2. Re-enable Developer Options and USB Debugging
  3. Boot into fastboot mode:
adb reboot bootloader
  1. Flash TWRP recovery:
fastboot flash recovery twrp-nord-model.img
  1. Boot into TWRP immediately:
fastboot boot twrp-nord-model.img

Alternative Recovery Options

  • OrangeFox Recovery: TWRP-based with additional features
  • PitchBlack Recovery: Dark-themed TWRP variant
  • LineageOS Recovery: For LineageOS installations

Rooting with Magisk

Method 1: TWRP + Magisk ZIP

  1. Download latest Magisk ZIP file
  2. Transfer to device internal storage
  3. Boot into TWRP recovery
  4. Tap "Install" and select Magisk ZIP
  5. Swipe to confirm flash
  6. Reboot system
  7. Install Magisk Manager APK

Method 2: Magisk Patched Boot Image

For newer models or when TWRP is unavailable:

  1. Extract boot.img from stock firmware
  2. Install Magisk APK on device
  3. Use Magisk to patch boot.img
  4. Transfer patched boot image to computer
  5. Flash via fastboot:
fastboot flash boot magisk_patched.img

Model-Specific Instructions

OnePlus Nord 2 Specific Steps

⚠️ Nord 2 Warning: The Nord 2 uses MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI processor which has specific requirements:
  • May require MTK Client for some operations
  • Anti-rollback protection prevents downgrading
  • Some firmware versions have enhanced security

Additional Nord 2 Steps:

  1. Check current firmware version and anti-rollback level
  2. Ensure TWRP supports your firmware version
  3. Consider using SP Flash Tool for emergency recovery
  4. Backup critical partitions before modifications

OnePlus Nord CE Series

Nord CE models generally follow standard procedures:

  • Nord CE: Snapdragon 750G, standard fastboot unlock
  • Nord CE 2: MediaTek Dimensity 900, may need MTK tools
  • Nord CE 2 Lite: Snapdragon 695, standard procedure

OnePlus Nord 3 Considerations

💡 Nord 3 Tips: As the newest model, Nord 3 has the most advanced security:
  • Uses MediaTek Dimensity 9000 with enhanced security
  • May require specific TWRP builds
  • Check for bootloader unlock availability
  • Some regions may have locked bootloaders

Troubleshooting and Recovery

Common Issues and Solutions

Bootloader Won't Unlock

  • Check OEM Unlocking: Ensure it's enabled in Developer Options
  • Network Connection: Some models require internet connection
  • Carrier Lock: Some carrier models cannot be unlocked
  • Regional Restrictions: Some regions have locked bootloaders

TWRP Installation Fails

  • Verify you have correct TWRP for exact model number
  • Try flashing to both recovery and boot partitions
  • Use different USB port or cable
  • Check if anti-rollback protection is blocking installation

Device Won't Boot After Root

  • Boot into TWRP: Flash Magisk uninstaller
  • Fastboot Recovery: Flash stock boot.img
  • Complete Recovery: Flash full stock firmware
  • MTK Recovery: Use SP Flash Tool for MediaTek models

Emergency Recovery Procedures

For Snapdragon Models:

  1. Download stock OxygenOS firmware
  2. Extract all partition images
  3. Flash via fastboot commands
  4. Use OnePlus recovery tools if available

For MediaTek Models:

  1. Download SP Flash Tool
  2. Get scatter file and firmware
  3. Flash complete firmware via SP Flash Tool
  4. May require specific drivers and procedures

Post-Root Optimization for Nord Series

Essential Magisk Modules