How to install custom recovery on Nexus 5 [CWM & TWRP]

Nexus 5 is Google’s latest flagship Android phone that runs stock Android 4.4 KitKat or later. Even though Nexus devices offer pure stock Android experience, a large number of Nexus 5 users still want to flash a custom ROM, mod or implement tweaks that are not available in stock Android. To make this Modding thing easy, it’s desirable to install a custom recovery on Nexus 5 such as Clockworkmod or TWRP which lets you flash custom ROMs and apps very easily. Custom recovery also makes the rooting process a breeze. In this guide we’re going to talk about how to install custom recovery such as Clockworkmod (CWM) or TWRP on your Google Nexus 5 phone.

nexus 5 custom recovery

Prerequisites

  • Before we begin the installation of custom recovery on Nexus 5, backup your personal data and make sure your phone battery is charged.
  • Setup ADB and Fastboot (Instructions to install drivers are also there).
  • Unlock Nexus 5 Bootloader if you’ve not already.
Disclaimer: While this method of installing custom recovery on Nexus 5 is safe and tested, follow these instructions at your own risk. AndroidHeat cannot be held responsible if anything goes wrong.

How to install Custom recovery on Nexus 5

Step 1
There are two popular custom recoveries available for the Google Nexus 5: ClockworkMod (CWM) and TeamWin Recovery Project (TWRP). Both the custom recoveries are equally good, however, if you’re beginner, you should start with CWM recovery. Download the custom recovery of your choice:

Download ClockworkMod Recovery for Nexus 5
Download TWRP Recovery for Nexus 5

Step 2
Rename the recovery file that you downloaded above to recovery.img (NOT recovery.img.img) and then place the recovery.img file inside the folder where adb and fastboot files are.

Step 3
Now turn the Nexus 5 OFF and boot it into the bootloader/fastboot mode by holding volume down + power.

Step 4
Now open command prompt (make sure it’s pointing to the folder where fastboot and recovery.img files are located) and then run the following command:
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img

Step 5
On your Nexus 5, use the volume keys to navigate to “Restart Bootloader” option and press the Power button to select it.

Step 6
When the bootloader reloads, use volume keys to scroll on to “Recovery Mode” and press Power button to select it. This should load the newly installed ClockworkMod or TWRP recovery.

That’s it! you’ve successfully installed custom recovery on your Nexus 5. Now it’s time to root Nexus 5, and install other MODs and tweaks on it.

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