I'm looking for an Intel-based tablet or 2-in-1 that can run Linux and potentially replace both my Samsung tablet and my aging Lenovo laptop. The Lenovo currently runs a lightweight version of Linux Mint, but it's painfully slow and I only use it when I specifically need Linux. Samsung tablets used to be much cheaper than iPads, but current models are now similarly expensive, with a replacement for my Galaxy Tab S9 costing around AUD$3,500. I found an HP OmniBook X Flip 2-in-1 on sale at a much lower price and am considering buying it, although its thickness is a drawback. Does anyone know of compatibility problems with Linux on this kind of hardware, particularly the touchscreen, Wi-Fi, suspend/resume, and on-screen keyboard? Are there better hardware options for a Linux-friendly tablet or convertible? Also, is Linux support still limited on Snapdragon-based devices?
3 Answers
I ended up choosing the model with the i7 processor because it was only about $100 more. A 16-inch screen is oversized for a tablet, but even if the tablet experience isn't ideal, it should still make a capable Linux laptop at a good price.
I have used two different HP 2-in-1 models with Linux and generally had a good experience. Most hardware worked with only minor quirks. One older model had unreliable Realtek Wi-Fi, which I eventually replaced with an Intel card. Another initially had trouble waking from suspend, but a later kernel update fixed it. Touchscreen note-taking worked well, and KDE Plasma provided a particularly nice interface for this form factor.
A standard desktop Linux distribution should work, but it may feel more like using a laptop with a touchscreen than using a tablet-specific operating system. You may need to rely on the on-screen keyboard, and the quality of touchscreen gestures and tablet-mode support can vary between desktop environments.
That would be fine with me. I mainly want touchscreen support and would be happy to use it like a regular laptop when necessary.