Table of contents:
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Linux tablets have emerged as a powerful and versatile option for users seeking an open-source alternative to traditional operating systems. As we step into 2023, the demand for Linux tablets is stronger than ever, driven by their flexibility, security, and the vibrant community that surrounds them. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 best Linux tablets that are set to make waves in 2023, catering to a diverse range of needs and preferences. Whether you're a developer, a creative professional, or simply a tech enthusiast, these Linux tablets offer an exciting glimpse into the future of portable computing.
1. Juno Tab 2
The Juno Tablet 2 (beta) is considered one of the best Linux tablets available in the market. It boasts impressive specifications, making it a compelling choice for those looking for a Linux-only tablet.
The tablet features an Intel quad-core Celeron N5100 processor, offering a good balance between performance and power efficiency. This makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks and mobile computing needs.
Its 11-inch 2K IPS touchscreen display delivers sharp and vibrant visuals, enhancing the overall user experience. Whether you're browsing the web, watching videos, or working on projects, the display quality is sure to impress.
With 12 GB of 3200 MHz RAM, the tablet excels at multitasking. You can run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing significant lag or slowdowns. This is especially beneficial for users who require productivity and efficiency on the go.The tablet comes with a 128 GB SSD, and it also offers the option to expand storage up to 2 TB. This flexibility allows users to store a substantial amount of data, including documents, media files, and applications.
Furthermore, what sets the Juno Tablet 2 (beta) apart is its Linux-based operating system choices. Users can opt for Mobian Phosh, Manjaro Plasma Mobile, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, and more. This variety of Linux distributions ensures that users can select the one that best suits their preferences and requirements.
2. CPDEVICE Spring 10 GEN2 PRO
This device is equipped with a powerful 1TOPS processor and offers a wide range of connectivity options. It supports both 250K and 500K CAN bus protocols, including J1939, CANopen, and ISO15765, ensuring compatibility with various automotive communication systems. With 4G/5G support, it ensures stable connectivity regardless of your location, and the CP-Comm feature simplifies software development.
Furthermore, it seamlessly integrates with the SPRING GEN2 using a shared 26PIN interface, making upgrades easy. For agricultural applications, it supports CP ISOBUS VT, allowing control of all VT-enabled implements from a single device. Additionally, it is compatible with both Android and Linux operating systems, making it a versatile choice for various needs, including serving as one of the best Linux tablets for truck drivers.
3. Librem 11
The Librem 11, manufactured by Purism, is a Linux-powered tablet known for its excellence in the market. Purism is celebrated for its strong commitment to user privacy and security, evident in their hardware and their customized Linux distribution, PureOS, which is designed with these principles at its core. To enhance security further, the tablet comes equipped with PureBoot.
This tablet features an impressive 11.5-inch AMOLED 2K display, delivering vibrant and sharp visuals that enhance the overall user experience. Whether you're consuming media or working on tasks, this high-quality display adds to the overall enjoyment and productivity.
With 8 GB of RAM, the tablet ensures seamless multitasking and can efficiently handle resource-intensive applications, making it suitable for users who demand high performance from their Linux tablet.
The Librem 11 stands out as one of the best Linux tablets available, combining robust hardware specifications with a strong commitment to user privacy and security, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a Linux tablet that prioritizes data protection.
4. Ubuntu Touch
Indeed, you do have the option to install a touch-friendly version of Ubuntu on some older Android tablets. It's important to note that Ubuntu Touch officially supports a limited range of devices, but you can explore the possibilities by checking the compatibility list. You might even attempt to install Ubuntu Touch on other tablets you own, although it may not offer full functionality, it can still be quite usable.
Originally a project by the Ubuntu team, Ubuntu Touch was discontinued in 2017. However, the responsibility for the project has since been taken up by UBports, who have been doing an admirable job despite their limited resources.
For those with an adventurous and experimental spirit, turning an old Android tablet into a Linux-powered device with Ubuntu Touch can be an intriguing weekend project. While it may not match the performance and features of dedicated Linux tablets, it offers a unique opportunity to revitalize older hardware and explore the world of touch-friendly Linux.
5. Pine Tab
You're looking for information about Pine64 and their range of products, including the PineTab tablet, with a focus on its suitability as a Linux tablet. Pine64 initially gained popularity with its Pine A64 single-board computer, positioning itself as an alternative to the Raspberry Pi. Over time, they introduced several Pine-branded products like the PineTime smartwatch, Pinebook laptop, PinePhone smartphone, and the PineTab tablet.
These Pine devices are known for their affordability and appeal to open-source DIY enthusiasts who value full control and customization. The PineTab, which shares components with Pine64's single-board computers, offers a basic specification set, including an HD IPS capacitive touchscreen, an Allwinner A64 chipset, a Quad-core CPU, and 2 GB of RAM. While it may not compete with high-end tablets like the iPad or Galaxy Tab, its strength lies in the ability to install and configure a Linux distribution of your choice.
Please keep in mind that the availability of the PineTab may be limited, so staying updated with Pine64's developments is advisable if you're interested in acquiring one, especially if you're looking for the best Linux tablet option.
6. PineNote Developer Edition
The PineNote is a noteworthy Linux tablet designed primarily for note-taking, reading books, and viewing documents. It features an E-ink display, which is commonly found on e-book readers like the Kindle, making it a compelling option for those who enjoy e-reading. Additionally, the PineNote provides the functionality to take notes using a Wacom Pen, enhancing its versatility.
The PineNote boasts a Quad-core Rockchip processor, a multi-touch E-ink panel, 4 GB of RAM, and ample 128 GB eMMC storage. These specifications make it a capable device for running Linux applications, browsing the internet, and even playing games, albeit with a focus on tasks related to note-taking and reading.
For users seeking the best Linux tablet, the PineNote is a unique choice due to its specialized E-ink display and note-taking capabilities, making it particularly suitable for productivity and reading tasks.
7. RasPad
The RasPad is a unique kit designed to transform Raspberry Pi devices into functional touch-based devices. What sets it apart is its wedge-shaped body, which makes it more ergonomic for desktop use compared to conventional flat tablets.
Specifically tailored for Raspberry Pi devices, the RasPad provides easy access to most of the Raspberry Pi's ports. While it offers a dedicated RasPad OS, you have the freedom to use standard Raspberry Pi operating systems like Raspbian, Ubuntu, or any other compatible distribution. It's essential to consider the touch-friendliness of the operating system you choose to maximize the RasPad's touchscreen capabilities.
One important note is that the Raspberry Pi itself is not included in the RasPad kit, so you'll need to purchase a Raspberry Pi separately to complete the setup.
For those in search of the best Linux tablet with Raspberry Pi compatibility, the RasPad stands out as a versatile option, offering a unique form factor and the flexibility to choose the operating system that best suits your needs.
8. CPDEVICE Spring 10 Gen2 Plus
This powerful device, featuring a 1T processor, is well-equipped for various tasks, including serving as one of the best Linux tablets for truck drivers. It supports 250K/500K CAN and SocketCAN bus protocols, ensuring compatibility with automotive communication systems. With 4G/5G support, it guarantees high-quality communication, while CP-Comm simplifies software development. It also shares a 26PIN interface with the SPRING GEN2, enabling seamless upgrades. Additionally, it supports CP ISOBUS VT, making it valuable for agricultural applications. Whether running on Android or Linux OS, this versatile device caters to a wide range of preferences and needs.
9. CutiePi
The tablet you're describing, which is based on the Raspberry Pi 4 and features an 8-inch touch screen, a 5000 mAh battery, and utilizes the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4, is a remarkable addition to the world of Linux tablets.
With its combination of hardware features and the CutiePi shell, it effectively transforms the Raspberry Pi OS into a functional tablet experience. This unique blend of hardware and software allows users to enjoy the versatility of Raspberry Pi while providing a tablet-like form factor.
For those in search of the best Linux tablet with the power and flexibility of a Raspberry Pi, this device is certainly a compelling option. Its Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 integration ensures compatibility with a wide range of Raspberry Pi software and projects, making it a valuable tool for enthusiasts and makers.
10. ThinkPad L13 Yoga
The Lenovo ThinkPad L13 Yoga is indeed a versatile two-in-one laptop that offers excellent performance across various tasks, making it an ideal choice for developers and creators. One of its standout features is the pre-installed support for multiple Linux distributions, which adds to its appeal among the Linux community.
With a choice of Linux distros like Mint, CentOS, Fedora, Debian, and Ubuntu, users have the flexibility to select the one that best suits their preferences and workflow. This ensures that developers and creators can leverage the power and reliability of Linux right out of the box, without the need for manual installation or configuration.
The ThinkPad L13 Yoga's ability to function both as a laptop and a tablet makes it even more versatile, allowing users to adapt to various work scenarios effortlessly. This is particularly advantageous for those who prefer touchscreen interfaces or require a more portable form factor when working on their creative projects.
The ThinkPad L13 Yoga from Lenovo stands out as an excellent choice for developers and creators seeking a powerful laptop with Linux support. Its two-in-one functionality, combined with the availability of multiple Linux distros, positions it as one of the best Linux tablets on the market for individuals in these fields.
Conclusion:
In 2025, Linux tablets are poised to redefine the way we experience portable computing. With their open-source allure and versatility, these devices cater to a wide range of user needs. At CPDEVICE, we focus on developing comprehensive software and hardware solutions. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Best Linux Tablets
1. What is a Linux tablet?
A Linux tablet is a tablet device that runs on a Linux-based operating system, such as Ubuntu, Debian, or other Linux distributions. These tablets offer users the flexibility of Linux, providing greater customization and control compared to traditional tablet OS like Android or iOS.
2. Why should I choose a Linux tablet over Android or iOS?
Choosing a Linux tablet offers several advantages, including:
-
Customization: Linux allows for deep customization of the system, giving you control over the interface, settings, and installed software.
-
Open-Source: Most Linux distributions are open-source, meaning the source code is available to anyone and free to use, modify, and distribute.
-
Security: Linux is known for its strong security features, making it a good choice for privacy-conscious users.
-
Better Support for Development: Developers and tech enthusiasts often prefer Linux for software development, especially for open-source projects.
3. What are some popular Linux tablets available?
Some well-regarded Linux tablets include:
-
PineTab: A budget-friendly tablet that comes pre-installed with Linux (Pine64’s official operating system) and supports various Linux distributions.
-
JingPad A1: A high-performance Linux tablet running JingOS, a Linux-based mobile operating system designed specifically for tablets.
-
CPDEVICE Spring 10 Gen2 Plus): Though primarily an Android device, certain CPDEVICE Tab models can be installed with Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Debian via special boot loaders.
4. Can I run Android apps on a Linux tablet?
While Linux tablets do not natively support Android apps, it is possible to run them using tools like Anbox or Waydroid. These applications allow Android apps to run within the Linux environment, although performance and compatibility may vary.
5. What are the advantages of using a Linux tablet for programming?
Linux is a favorite among developers due to its:
-
Open-source tools: There are a wealth of development tools, compilers, text editors, and IDEs available for Linux.
-
Terminal access: The Linux terminal offers powerful command-line functionality, allowing for efficient coding and system control.
-
Wide software support: Many software development environments, including those for Python, C++, and web development, are native to Linux.
