Surface Devices

[Mendota]

I get it, equally I don't need it. I was never a supporter of the argument of two settings apps (Control Panel & W10 Setting) being an issue by the Mac crowd as it was oblivious that MS needed time to migrate numerous legacy controls to W10 settings.

Adding GPE into the mix is just needless IMO, after all Home & Pro should be differentiated or what exactly are we paying for? As someone who is technically competent I may as well look to Linux if I have to jump through too many hoops with MS Windows. Vast majority of W10 consumer purchases come with W10 Home, not W10 Pro and they have zero inclination to upgrade. It's not a big deal, equally it irritates and adds yet another nail in the coffin.

Next hardware cycle I'll be certainly looking to systems that can run Linux with full functionality as macrOS & W10 is simply getting old. I revisit KDE from time to time, need to really sit down and work on the apps to get done what needs to be done. That said if the HW/SW list completes W10 will be done as no need for MS or Apple for that matter...

W10 1909 stands, relinquishing choice is never a solution to a problem, only a form of control.

Q-6

You go Queen! I think most systems these days will support Linux so no issues there. For myself I always like to have a dedicated Linux machine, usually have to do it myself as OEMs tend to do either Mint or Ubuntu. Mint is okay, but Ubuntu is too bloated for my taste. Of course I will always have Windows, I do like it and it supports the software I need. I will keep up with Apple as long as it doesn't cost me to do so, and well I have to do Android to have a phone. I like Android, but I don't trust Google. This is why I don't have a Chromebook despite having everything else.

By the way, as I understand it, even with 1909, there will come a point that it too will set for upgrading. It might take a year, so you have plenty of time to get that Linux machine in gear.

 

[maflynn]

I was never a supporter of the argument of two settings apps (Control Panel & W10 Setting)

This is my bone of contention with MS on a number of levels.

• They add new features to the OS, but they don't do that throughout the OS.
• They never go back and clean up the inconsistanies.
• They roll out new standards, take, UWP and expect developers to abandon the old standard, win32, yet at rollout UWP was not as feature rich as win32 and still to this day is more limiting.

That means we have a control panel that offers system administrators a fine level of control over various aspects of a server (or workstation) that the settings app cannot. If you're going to rollout a new standard, make sure it does as much if not more then the legacy one.

Of all of the short comings of apple, they can and do rollout new systems that are fully polished and generally the level of consistency is much higher. Looking at macOS 11, and its clear Apple produced a beautiful looking and consistent operating system. In the past it may have looked nice, but it was unstable and buggy. I'm not sure of the quality of macOS 11 is superior but at least it looks good

I'll be certainly looking to systems that can run Linux with full functionality as macrOS & W10 is simply getting old.

I can't see myself going whole hog on Linux. There are some advantages, but the disadvantages heavily outweigh those. An operating system's job is to execute programs, pure and simple, and for me, Linux fails mightly. I'm not saying its a bad platform, but for my needs it just doesn't meet them. My work VPN, remote software doesn't work, the games I play are not available, the apps like photoshop and lightroom are not available. Then there's the need to manage and tweak the system. The need to get under the hood and manage the OS is much higher in Linux then the other platforms.

 

[c0ppo]

Then there's the need to manage and tweak the system. The need to get under the hood and manage the OS is much higher in Linux then the other platforms.

I agree with everything in your post above, except this part.
IMHO, there is more need to manage the system when using Windows. For instance, updates... They tend to replace drivers I have set up, settings as well. Then there are those basic things that you simply need 3rd party tools to do. For example, Windows 10 hotspot doesn't work for me since last update. My devices simply don't want to connect to it. Why? Well, I gave up on figuring that one out. Installed a 3rd party tool, and using it that way.

My linux install on the other hand is rock solid. Once I've installed, tweaked and set everything up, I never touched anything system related. Never had any need to do so.

While Linux isn't for everyone, and not just that.. Linux isn't for vast majority of users. Mostly because it lacks industry standard apps. But stability/speed wise it blows Windows 10 out of the water easily. And it's easier to use as well.

As far as gaming goes, almost everything works like a charm. Every game in my steam library works. But I'm an ex-gamer, so I don't really care about that. But as far as I understand it, some games with anti-cheat software don't work because of anti-cheat that doesn't support Linux.

Now, I highly doubt Linux will ever become mainstream on desktp/laptop market. It's not just about apps. Touchpad/trackpad is lousy, even with 100 tweaks and adjusting everything, it's not even close to Windows 10 precision trackpads, let alone those found on macs who are in the league of their own.

Also, you can't expect regular users to use command line to fix screen tearing when using nvidia cards.

I could go on and on about why Linux will never become mainstream on desktop/laptop. Unless some BIG company pushes it hard, but that will never happen.

But with all those faults, linux is fast, scalable, reliable, and it will be a heaven for developers in the future as well. Something Windows will never achieve, even with WSL. But for most of regular users, Linux will be fun to tinker with. But in the end, they will stick with Win/MacOS.

 

[LeeW]

Linux is for enthusiasts on anything non-server related, never be anything more than that. After 20 years of Linux server administration and knowing how well I could run Linux on a desktop if I wanted, I still wouldn't use it.

 

[grmlin]

Linux is fantastic if your hardware works with it. If it does not you are basically screwed 🤷🏼
I would have loved to use it with my ThinkPad for work, but I was out of luck. Now I’m enjoying WSL, which is awesome in it’s own way. But now I have to deal with Windows, of course 😝

 

[c0ppo]

I would have loved to use it with my ThinkPad for work, but I was out of luck.

?
Linux doesn't work on P53? What?

 

[maflynn]

?
Linux doesn't work on P53? What?

I have no first hand knowledge but it seems it can run Ubuntu
Ubuntu on Lenovo ThinkPad P53

The Lenovo ThinkPad P53 laptop with the components described below has been awarded the status of certified pre-install for Ubuntu.

 

[grmlin]

?
Linux doesn't work on P53? What?

Oh, the laptop works... It misses support for the fingerprint reader, but everything else seemed to be fine.
But HIDPI screens are a total mess in Linux in general. Even after fiddling around for hours I couldn't get my external monitor to work correctly with it. It didn't work at all using Thunderbolt and even with display port I had nothing but issues. NVIDIA + HIDPI + Linux are a total showstopper right now.
I used an AMD GPU in my desktop before, and it worked, but already was pretty buggy. But I didn't know that this buggy experience was the best you can get right now.

 

[Queen6]

This is my bone of contention with MS on a number of levels.

• They add new features to the OS, but they don't do that throughout the OS.
• They never go back and clean up the inconsistanies.
• They roll out new standards, take, UWP and expect developers to abandon the old standard, win32, yet at rollout UWP was not as feature rich as win32 and still to this day is more limiting.

That means we have a control panel that offers system administrators a fine level of control over various aspects of a server (or workstation) that the settings app cannot. If you're going to rollout a new standard, make sure it does as much if not more then the legacy one.

Of all of the short comings of apple, they can and do rollout new systems that are fully polished and generally the level of consistency is much higher. Looking at macOS 11, and its clear Apple produced a beautiful looking and consistent operating system. In the past it may have looked nice, but it was unstable and buggy. I'm not sure of the quality of macOS 11 is superior but at least it looks good


I can't see myself going whole hog on Linux. There are some advantages, but the disadvantages heavily outweigh those. An operating system's job is to execute programs, pure and simple, and for me, Linux fails mightly. I'm not saying its a bad platform, but for my needs it just doesn't meet them. My work VPN, remote software doesn't work, the games I play are not available, the apps like photoshop and lightroom are not available. Then there's the need to manage and tweak the system. The need to get under the hood and manage the OS is much higher in Linux then the other platforms.

I agree with everything in your post above, except this part.
IMHO, there is more need to manage the system when using Windows. For instance, updates... They tend to replace drivers I have set up, settings as well. Then there are those basic things that you simply need 3rd party tools to do. For example, Windows 10 hotspot doesn't work for me since last update. My devices simply don't want to connect to it. Why? Well, I gave up on figuring that one out. Installed a 3rd party tool, and using it that way.

My linux install on the other hand is rock solid. Once I've installed, tweaked and set everything up, I never touched anything system related. Never had any need to do so.

While Linux isn't for everyone, and not just that.. Linux isn't for vast majority of users. Mostly because it lacks industry standard apps. But stability/speed wise it blows Windows 10 out of the water easily. And it's easier to use as well.

As far as gaming goes, almost everything works like a charm. Every game in my steam library works. But I'm an ex-gamer, so I don't really care about that. But as far as I understand it, some games with anti-cheat software don't work because of anti-cheat that doesn't support Linux.

Now, I highly doubt Linux will ever become mainstream on desktp/laptop market. It's not just about apps. Touchpad/trackpad is lousy, even with 100 tweaks and adjusting everything, it's not even close to Windows 10 precision trackpads, let alone those found on macs who are in the league of their own.

Also, you can't expect regular users to use command line to fix screen tearing when using nvidia cards.

I could go on and on about why Linux will never become mainstream on desktop/laptop. Unless some BIG company pushes it hard, but that will never happen.

But with all those faults, linux is fast, scalable, reliable, and it will be a heaven for developers in the future as well. Something Windows will never achieve, even with WSL. But for most of regular users, Linux will be fun to tinker with. But in the end, they will stick with Win/MacOS.

Linux is for enthusiasts on anything non-server related, never be anything more than that. After 20 years of Linux server administration and knowing how well I could run Linux on a desktop if I wanted, I still wouldn't use it.

No doubts at all guy's. I'd likely only use Linux on a low level system, with minimum needs. Just have to see how it pans out.

Q-6

 

[SteveJUAE]

Well I got really bored waiting for MS to release some toys so I bought one of those Samsung Odyssey G9 monitors for a bit of fun

Was only $1450 here plus a free $350 soundbar ............ bargain LOL

49" Odyssey G95C DQHD Curved Gaming Monitor | Samsung US

Explore 1ms 240Hz 49 inch Gaming Monitor Odyssey DQHD G9 with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. Feel the immersive gaming experience at home. Buy today!

www.samsung.com

 

[LeeW]

Was only $1450 here plus a free $350 soundbar ............ bargain LOL

Nice, as it happens I am looking for a new monitor, kinda fed up with two monitors and would like one large screen to replace the 25" Dells, but just can't find anything decent that can be mounted to the wall and not being too curved.

 

[SteveJUAE]

Nice, as it happens I am looking for a new monitor, kinda fed up with two monitors and would like one large screen to replace the 25" Dells, but just can't find anything decent that can be mounted to the wall and not being too curved.

Yep difficult I toyed with getting a "portable OLED" screen to match my Razer OLED but they are $3k and I don't really need colour accuracy for excel

Looked at twin monitors and the predator was just too ugly LG's were ok as I sit in our lounge so the sexy Samsung seemed a good compromise for my usage, but need a webcam now

I think they screwed up on the price as it is $200 cheaper than US plus that sound bar freebie

 

[derekamoss]

Well, just to let everyone know, my Surface Book 2 has passed the durability and impact test today. Had my Satchel, which had no padding, in the front seat of my truck when they guy Infront of me decided to slam on his breaks. I stopped in time (don't know if it was quick reaction time, safe distance, or good breaks, which I doubt since i have needed new ones) and thought I was in the clear till I look back and saw another truck slam right in my rear sending everything flying in the front seat hard into the dashboard, luckily I came out pretty much undamaged, including both the truck and the surface. Had one dent in the back bumper hardly noticeable which is surprising n what the impact felt like. Little did I know it was a four car pile up until i pulled over and two other cars pulled behind me, the fourth car which was a white mustang with racing stripes who had its front end crushed the worse peeled off and didnt stop which sucks for the girl in the third car since she cant claim under his insurance. The surface is fine and thats what i was worried about. Also my pixel 4 is supposed to detect car crashes and ask me if i am alright, if I dont respond its supposed to call 911 with my location, yeah that never happened lol.

 

[canesalato]

Well, just to let everyone know, my Surface Book 2 has passed the durability and impact test today. Had my Satchel, which had no padding, in the front seat of my truck when they guy Infront of me decided to slam on his breaks. I stopped in time (don't know if it was quick reaction time, safe distance, or good breaks, which I doubt since i have needed new ones) and thought I was in the clear till I look back and saw another truck slam right in my rear sending everything flying in the front seat hard into the dashboard, luckily I came out pretty much undamaged, including both the truck and the surface. Had one dent in the back bumper hardly noticeable which is surprising n what the impact felt like. Little did I know it was a four car pile up until i pulled over and two other cars pulled behind me, the fourth car which was a white mustang with racing stripes who had its front end crushed the worse peeled off and didnt stop which sucks for the girl in the third car since she cant claim under his insurance. The surface is fine and thats what i was worried about. Also my pixel 4 is supposed to detect car crashes and ask me if i am alright, if I dont respond its supposed to call 911 with my location, yeah that never happened lol.

glad your surface is ok! And more than the surface, glad you and the others were ok too! Thank you for sharing! =)

 

[Falhófnir]

Microsoft Surface Duo gets Bluetooth SIG certification

The device was also spotted on the FCC database yesterday and could launch ahead of schedule. Microsoft’s upcoming foldable Android phone - the Surface Duo...

www.gsmarena.com

At least one dual-screen device is going ahead, though it's ultimately an Android one not Windows!

 

[Dave245]

Microsoft Surface Duo gets Bluetooth SIG certification

The device was also spotted on the FCC database yesterday and could launch ahead of schedule. Microsoft’s upcoming foldable Android phone - the Surface Duo...

www.gsmarena.com

At least one dual-screen device is going ahead, though it's ultimately an Android one not Windows!

Oh I hope that means it will be launching soon! I would love to pre-order one.

 

[derekamoss]

glad your surface is ok! And more than the surface, glad you and the others were ok too! Thank you for sharing! =)

Yeah as I said when I felt the impact I thought it would be bad. Came out and looked. Barely a dent! Everyone's damage was minimal except the fourth guy whos front end was crumbled, who decided to take off and not stop. Really the worst part was the unknowing until I checked the surface. Normally I could care less and just go to the MS Store 20 mins away pay the $50 and walk out. Now that the stores are closed......

 

[meddow]

Cant wait for the duo!!!

 

[kazmac]

Well, just to let everyone know, my Surface Book 2 has passed the durability and impact test today. Had my Satchel, which had no padding, in the front seat of my truck when they guy Infront of me decided to slam on his breaks. I stopped in time (don't know if it was quick reaction time, safe distance, or good breaks, which I doubt since i have needed new ones) and thought I was in the clear till I look back and saw another truck slam right in my rear sending everything flying in the front seat hard into the dashboard, luckily I came out pretty much undamaged, including both the truck and the surface. Had one dent in the back bumper hardly noticeable which is surprising n what the impact felt like. Little did I know it was a four car pile up until i pulled over and two other cars pulled behind me, the fourth car which was a white mustang with racing stripes who had its front end crushed the worse peeled off and didnt stop which sucks for the girl in the third car since she cant claim under his insurance. The surface is fine and thats what i was worried about. Also my pixel 4 is supposed to detect car crashes and ask me if i am alright, if I dont respond its supposed to call 911 with my location, yeah that never happened lol.

Glad you’re okay. Also good that everyone else was okay and your Surface also came through.

 

[derekamoss]

Well I told myself I wouldn't but Windows insider released a new beta build with the new start screen tiles that afix to your actual them and am no taking the plunge.... I should be fine since I haven't had any major issues with the insider builds before 20H2 here I come!

Update after install
Well that was surprising. Jumping from 20H1 to 20H2 was only a small enablement cumulative patch instead of a full build install. Took maybe three mins after downloading to install. Already have the new Start Menu which looks nice but now am wondering if I need to reorganize it so its all uniform now ugh decisions decisions.... 1st world issues! Havent had an issue with anything although it has only been like 10 mins. Will update if there is.

 

[Mendota]

Well, just to let everyone know, my Surface Book 2 has passed the durability and impact test today. Had my Satchel, which had no padding, in the front seat of my truck when they guy Infront of me decided to slam on his breaks. I stopped in time (don't know if it was quick reaction time, safe distance, or good breaks, which I doubt since i have needed new ones) and thought I was in the clear till I look back and saw another truck slam right in my rear sending everything flying in the front seat hard into the dashboard, luckily I came out pretty much undamaged, including both the truck and the surface. Had one dent in the back bumper hardly noticeable which is surprising n what the impact felt like. Little did I know it was a four car pile up until i pulled over and two other cars pulled behind me, the fourth car which was a white mustang with racing stripes who had its front end crushed the worse peeled off and didnt stop which sucks for the girl in the third car since she cant claim under his insurance. The surface is fine and thats what i was worried about. Also my pixel 4 is supposed to detect car crashes and ask me if i am alright, if I dont respond its supposed to call 911 with my location, yeah that never happened lol.

Wow that is scary, I have been in multi car accidents! I am happy that both you, your car, and the Surface made it out okay.

 

[derekamoss]

Wow that is scary, I have been in multi car accidents! I am happy that both you, your car, and the Surface made it out okay.

Wrecks are always scary! When I was about 9 my mom's breaks went out and plowed into the car in front of us. I wasn't wearing a seat belt and went head first in the windshield. Shattered it and everything and came out of it without even a conccusion. It's crazy how some people walk away from a huge accident with no harm done. As I said I am just perplexed that it literally only dented the rear fender and amazed that I didn't plow into the car in front of me that slammed on its breaks! Just happy the airbag didn't deploy because that's a hassle lol.

 

[762999]

correctly with it. It didn't work at all using Thunderbolt and even with display port I had nothing but issues. NVIDIA + HIDPI + Linux are a total showstopper right now.

I have same laptop with nvidia card and have zero issues. I also have nvidia card in my desktop with dual 4k. I run Manjaro on both but had tested Fedora/Ubuntu & popOS. I also use displaycal for monitor calibration on all devices..

 

[Jason2000]

I have read many many pages on this post hoping to come to a conclusion about Surface devices as I have never used or owned one but the only thing I found is a lot of Apple hate. Are the Surface devices worth the money ? Thinking of getting a Surface Laptop. I looked at the Samsung Flex and it looks nice but can not get over the screen being 1080. I guess I am used to the retina screens on the MacBooks that when I look at a device with 1080 it looks so blurry to me.

 

[Dave245]

I have read many many pages on this post hoping to come to a conclusion about Surface devices as I have never used or owned one but the only thing I found is a lot of Apple hate. Are the Surface devices worth the money ? Thinking of getting a Surface Laptop. I looked at the Samsung Flex and it looks nice but can not get over the screen being 1080. I guess I am used to the retina screens on the MacBooks that when I look at a device with 1080 it looks so blurry to me.

I personally don’t hate Apple at all, In fact I’ve been a fan for many years. However I have found myself very disappointed on a few occasions. But I always find myself going back to Apple, simply because I find their products better (ecosystem also plays a part).

Windows puts me off, however the Surface Pro was a pretty great device.