I’m looking for a cheap and portable tablet that I can use for writing. Microsoft Surface Pro tablets, at least around the gen 4 models, are rather cheap to buy used, and they seem decently well made. Naturally, were I to buy one, I would have to install Linux onto it.

I’ve been peripherally aware of the Linux Surface project for some time now. I looked at it recently, after having not for some time, and it seems that they have really made good progress compared to what I remember, and it’s making me much more interested in trying to install Linux on a Surface Pro.

Having never owned a Surface Pro, I’m not sure which models are the most reliable and sturdy. I’m not looking for something that’s the flashiest; I want something that works well. I want something pragmatic — something akin to the idea of an older era of Thinkpad (eg T460). I want a pen with low input delay and good accuracy, reliable and responsive touch controls, and a decent display. I was thinking the Surface Pro 4 might be a good choice, but it’s hard to know as there aren’t many videos out there of people installing Linux on them, so I’m wondering what your experience has been with Microsoft Surface Pro’s and installing Linux on one.

Cross-posts:

  • node_user@feddit.uk
    1·
    3 months ago

    Prob somewhat irrelevant due to maturity of both, but I had a surface 2 with Ubuntu on it and that computer is now used.to wedge a door open. The experience was shit but the surface 2 was atom based I think so that was prob most of the reason…

    That being said, I installed Linux on a lenovo yoga (convertible) and I never touched the screen for frustration. Even on the steamdeck, is and touch is no fun

    I suggest testing a few OS for touch friendliness.