Linux @lemmy.ml Abdoanmes @lemmy.world 4 mo. ago

Finally coming around to using Linux. How's it on a tablet?

I'm 43 and not really starting using Linux. I've dabbled with distros on and off over the years, but I never made the full switch because work always had some program or policy that just wouldn't play nice with Linux. With all the crappy Microsoft decisions, bloatware, and ads I decided to try and use Linux exclusively on a personal device, and I'm absolutely loving it!

I've been working with Ubuntu as my main distro, and I've also been playing around with distros on a Raspberry Pi. To really challenge myself, I installed Linux on an old Surface Pro 3, and guess what? It just works! I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth the setup was and how well it performs.

I missing any key steps or tips to make the experience even better on a Surface? Any insights would be greatly appreciated. I was planning to buy a new tablet that runs Linux but this is working better than expected. I'm really enjoying the flexibility and control Linux offers and want to keep this momentum going.

I have read up and tried plenty, just looking for some perspectives out there specific to your tablet experiences.

EDIT Thank you for all the suggestions and insights! I'm going to continue using the Ubuntu build for the next few months. Still lots more to learn, but I'm excited to see how this goes. I have everything setup I need to function as a Linux only tablet experience. <sigh of relief> no more dependency on Windoze.

EDIT 2 I have been using Ubuntu for a few weeks and it generally works. The touch has been great but I do notice it is a bit buggy at times and the virtual keyboard leaves a lot to be desired. I did read this article today that talks about their experience more on a Surface Pro 4. https://www.binwang.me/2024-07-12-A-Review-of-Linux-on-Surface-Pro-4.html

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For someone who just does web browsing, sure. That is not the question or ask of this post. Read my comment again.
- Hm.. immutable distros are alternatives tho?
  
  And did you just downvote me for politely disagreeing?
  
  I downvoted because your comment had nothing to with the context of this thread or my comment, and just served to be an "AKSHUALLY ☝️" moment for yourself.
  
  Ahh. You’re just a prick. I get it now.
  
  Button is there for a reason. If you're just interjecting with nonsense, it should be downvoted.
  
  It was on topic and made perfect sense. What’s funny is that it was in response to you saying”AXSHHALLY you guys shouldn’t suggest immutable distros” because those don’t count as Windows alternatives for reasons?
  
  If you’re gonna be a prick, at least be correct.
  
  Friend, you're so up your own ass, you didn't even read OP's post. He wasn't asking for your ill informed recommendation for a distro...
  
  Why don't you read it again?
  
  Buddy, I did read it. Allow me to quote in case the OP is too long for you:
  
  I missing any key steps or tips to make the experience even better on a Surface? Any insights would be greatly appreciated.
  
  Dude is distro hopping and wants general input. Please fuck off.
  
  He says he has Ubuntu installed and is loving it, and just asking if there's any other things to round out a tablet experience.
  
  You: ☝️ "why don't you completely change the thing that is working for you, and even though you didn't ask, do what I'm suggesting you do because I like it, and it works for my mommy who just uses the web browser. Also, if anyone disagrees with me for evangelizing and giving unsolicited advice, I'm going to call them a prick and argue with them because I'm just special" ☝️ 😤
  
  I hate how OP is gonna have to do whatever we say :(
  
  That really sucks. I super wish they could just go on using whatever they want :(
  
  I'm sure they wish that too, instead they have people like you just throwing your own BS around a thread where they're trying to ask for honest suggestions. Sucks.

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