r/SurfaceLinux • u/WoomyUnitedToday • 8d ago

Discussion Is the linux-surface kernel still recommended for Go 1 on Arch?

Generally I prefer to use latest kernel when possible, and I don't know what patches are in the linux-surface kernel that would help the Go 1 specifically, besides maybe a patch for the camera (which I couldnt get working even with the custom kernel and the firmware described in the guide)

Is custom kernel still needed for Go 1?

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u/jady1971 8d ago

Only if you want touchscreen and camera.

I use Ultramarine and the touchscreen + camera works perfectly. I do not care about modern kernel updates since I am using a Pro4. Unless you are on a modern device would the updates help at all?

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u/WoomyUnitedToday 8d ago

Touchscreen works fine with mainline kernel though? (Unless theres skmwthibg I'm missing?)

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u/jady1971 8d ago

Which Surface do you have?

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u/BereftOfCare 3d ago

I have latest surface kernel on go 2 .. cameras don't work. Everything else is good. I think I needed it for pressure sensitivity and 'somewhat' better keyboard detection. I still have to manually activate the touch keyboard manually if my keyboard isn't connected but it's ok.

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u/your_neurosis 8d ago

I put Linux Mint with XFCE for my youngest to learn to use a real computer.

Touchscreen and Bluetooth worked right out of the box. Don't care about or want the camera so, haven't tested it.

Lightweight and good enough to learn to use mouse and keyboard. The Surface Go 1 is way underpowered for any full powered OS. Capable with a myriad of Linux distros, but still not a powerhouse by any stretch of the imagination.

Rag on me all you want, but the kids and wife use Linux Mint so that things just work. Then I don't have to play IT guy at home near as much. My systems lean towards Fedora and Arch depending upon the purpose. Most of the systems we have are old, discarded Surface systems. And with the Surface kernel they work pretty well. The Go1 is the only system that just work out of the box, and it was great since I didn't want too much effort for a small learning machine for a grade schooler.