Juno Computers has introduced their new Linux-based tablet, the Juno Tab 3, now on sale with Ubuntu 24.04 LTS pre-installed.
This is fantastic news.
The device features a low-power Intel N100 processor, includes 12 GB of RAM, has a 512 GB M.2 SSD for storage, and sports a 12.1-inch 2K touch display.
Quite pleasing indeed.
It also includes a removable keyboard accessory that matches the color of the device, offering users the opportunity to transform their tablet into a mobile work station.
But what’s the drawback?
The cost.
For instance, the Juno Tab 3 starts at $699. This price point is quite high considering it contains the same chipset found in the Radxa X4 single-board computer that I discussed earlier, which sells a 12GB DDR5 version for just $79.
Neither the Radxa X4 single-board computer nor the variety of mini-PCs that are priced under $150 and feature the Intel N100 with 12GB DDR5 RAM (presumably, these come as part of a package) can match the user-friendly design of a tablet that includes a 2K display, speakers, and related amenities.
I recognize and appreciate that smaller Linux hardware providers lack the purchasing leverage and inventory capabilities of larger companies, and face continuous costs related to support and software integration (the Juno Tab 3, for instance, is offered with various operating systems including Mobian with Phosh).
Many readers might find the $699 price reasonable— and if that’s the case, feel free to purchase one!
Personally, spending $700 on a Linux-based tablet doesn’t seem practical for me, considering that Ubuntu, despite being touch-compatible, isn’t specifically designed for touch input, and many Linux applications are not optimized for touch use, often leading to complications and dissatisfaction.
—I say that as someone who does use Ubuntu with a touchscreen regularly, btw. It’s perfectly usable, but it’s not enjoyable.
Linux Tablet Alternatives
Interested in an Ubuntu tablet without spending too much? Interestingly, opting for devices that originally come with Windows or ChromeOS can be more cost-effective. Moreover, most tablets powered by Intel or AMD processors have good support from the mainline kernel today.
A commonly recommended strategy is to purchase a pre-owned Surface Pro (Intel version) and install Ubuntu on it. This approach offers an affordable solution to acquire a high-quality Linux-powered tablet. Kernel support is robust, and the Linux Surface project helps bridge any functionality gaps and contributes improvements upstream.
There are several Surface models, but it’s best to steer clear of the older versions or those running on ARM processors, because they often require specific custom images for installation, unlike the universal ones available for Intel/AMD processors.
A used Surface Pro 7 with an Intel i5 processor and a keyboard cover typically sells for about $200 on auction websites. If you’re willing to wait for a good deal or don’t mind minor cosmetic damage, you might find one for even less.
Looking for a new device? The Chuwi Hi10 Max tablet features a 12.9-inch display and is equipped with an Intel N100 processor, 12 GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 512 GB storage. It also boasts higher-resolution cameras and improved networking capabilities compared to the Juno Tab III, and is priced at $319 or $339 if you opt for the additional keyboard.
If you’re in the market for something distinctive and affordable, albeit not the most powerful for contemporary tasks, consider the DC-ROMA II. This RISC-V based tablet comes with Ubuntu 24.04 LTS pre-installed and starts at $149. Keep in mind though, RISC-V is still largely experimental.
Not willing to cut costs? For $930, you can acquire the Minisforum V3. Though more expensive and larger in size, it offers considerably more power with its AMD R7 8840U CPU, AMD Radeon 780M graphics, 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM, and a 1TB SSD.
These options indeed come with Windows 11 pre-installed. You will need to manually install Ubuntu, and there’s no guarantee of Linux compatibility as touchscreens might need a special driver.
Thanks Scott
- Chuwi typically offers discount codes and sales on their website, and it’s quite a challenge to find an item on their Amazon store that doesn’t offer a $20 discount.