Best Linux Distros for Tablet

Tablets require Linux distributions that are optimized for touch interfaces and offer seamless performance. This page explores the best Linux distros tailored for tablet users, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.

What makes a good tablet distro?

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Touch Interface

A good tablet distro should have a user-friendly touch interface, allowing easy navigation and interaction.

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Performance

Efficiency in resource management is crucial to ensure smooth operation and extended battery life on tablets.

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Battery Optimization

The distro should offer features that help maximize battery life, crucial for the portability of tablets.

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Software Availability

Having access to a wide range of software, especially those optimized for touch use, enhances the tablet experience.

Recommended distros

Our top picks for tablet, ranked by overall experience.

1
Ubuntu Icon

Ubuntu Touch

Best touch interface

Ubuntu Touch is specifically designed for mobile devices, offering a polished touch-friendly interface and seamless integration with Ubuntu's ecosystem.

  • Full touch interface
  • Convergence feature for desktop use
  • Regular updates and community support
  • Preinstalled core apps
2
Linux Icon

Plasma Mobile

KDE's mobile experience

Plasma Mobile brings the power of KDE to tablets, offering a smooth and customizable touch experience with rich features.

  • KDE Plasma optimized for touch
  • Rich customization options
  • Integration with KDE desktop apps
  • Active community development
3
Linux Icon

PostmarketOS

Sustainable mobile OS

PostmarketOS is a lightweight and adaptable Linux distro, designed to extend the life of mobile devices with excellent support for tablets.

  • Lightweight and efficient
  • Long-term support focus
  • Wide device compatibility
  • Open-source ecosystem
4
Manjaro Icon

Manjaro ARM

Arch-based ARM solution

Manjaro ARM provides a user-friendly Arch Linux experience optimized for ARM-based tablets, ensuring stability and performance.

  • Rolling release model
  • Arch Linux-based
  • Wide range of ARM support
  • Community-driven development
5
Linux Icon

Mobian

Debian for mobile

Mobian is a Debian-based distribution focused on providing a seamless mobile interface with the stability and reliability of Debian.

  • Debian stability
  • Touch-friendly GNOME interface
  • Regular security updates
  • Broad hardware support
6
Linux Icon

Sailfish OS

Smooth multitasking

Sailfish OS offers a unique and intuitive touch interface with robust multitasking capabilities, ideal for tablet users.

  • Gesture-based interface
  • Efficient multitasking
  • Secure and private
  • Supports Android apps

Compare tablet distros

Not sure which to pick? These comparisons might help.

Tablet FAQ

Can Linux run on a tablet?

Yes, many Linux distributions are optimized for tablets, providing a touch-friendly interface and ensuring good performance on ARM architectures.

Which Linux distro is best for ARM-based tablets?

For ARM-based tablets, Manjaro ARM and Ubuntu Touch are excellent choices due to their optimized performance and support for ARM architectures.

Is Ubuntu Touch a full Linux OS?

Ubuntu Touch is a fully-fledged Linux operating system designed specifically for mobile devices, providing a seamless and touch-optimized experience.

How does Plasma Mobile differ from Android?

Plasma Mobile offers a similar touch interface but is a full Linux distribution, allowing more customization and privacy-focused features compared to Android.

Can I install Linux on any tablet?

Not all tablets support Linux installations. It's important to check compatibility and community support for your specific device before proceeding.

Are there Linux apps for tablets?

Yes, many Linux apps are optimized for touch use, and some distros like Sailfish OS also support Android apps, expanding the range of available software.

Related categories

Not sure which to pick?

Compare any two distros side-by-side.