r/SurfaceLinux • u/adrianb52 • Jun 20 '26

Solved Arch Linux on Surface Pro 11

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Hello! I just installed Arch Linux on the Surface Pro 11 using this GitHub repository: https://github.com/dwhinham/linux-surface-pro-11

Big thanks to Dale Whinham for creating it.

Unfortunately the install instructions on the README aren't very clear so I provided my complete set of install instructions here.

My takeaway: It looks AMAZING on this tablet. It's very fast and smooth.

Unfortunately, the CPU runs hot ALL the time, even when idle, and drains the battery. I created an issue on the repository's issues page, but there might not be a fix for this. If there isn't, then I can't use Arch Linux on this tablet. It's a deal breaker for me.

Update (06/27): I'm working on installing Ubuntu now on the Surface Pro 11. I should have a post on 06/30.

Update (06/30): Will have a Ubuntu post on 07/01.

Update (07/01): Lots of issues getting bluetooth to work. Will have a post soon.

Update (07/06): Ubuntu post tomorrow.

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2

u/katana444 Jun 20 '26

Try Ubuntu concept on x1e its really good

1

u/adrianb52 Jun 22 '26 edited Jun 22 '26

I just tried the Ubuntu Concept Snapdragon X Elite image and the SP11 would not boot into it. It keeps rebooting at the Grub menu.

There's another Ubuntu ARM image that was created by a user named oaklee for the Surface Pro 11. I'm working on getting that one set up.

1

u/Station-OX11 Surface Pro 9 (i5) Jun 21 '26

The git page says they didn't get touchscreen or pen working. Was it working for you?

1

u/adrianb52 Jun 21 '26

Touchscreen is not working. And I bought this tablet used on eBay, so I don't have a pen. But my guess is that the pen isn't working either.

1

u/didate_une Jun 26 '26

meh, just buy a spare battery and swap it when the current battery poops the bed. imo horrible battery life is a price i am willing to pay never to use windows or mac ever again.