I was gifted a Microsoft Surface Go (first gen). Since I wanted a lightweight travel system, this was a very welcomed gift. As I didn’t want to use Windows, I decided to install Ubuntu. I did some research and found out that Ubuntu seems to run on it without any issues. Under Ubuntu, the system generally runs even better.

So I downloaded the latest Ubuntu version, started Rufus, and prepared a bootable USB stick. I changed the BIOS settings, turned off Secure Boot, and changed the boot order. However, I wasn’t able to boot into Ubuntu.

Eventually I found out that you need to press Volume Down and the Power button to get to Ubuntu. This didn’t work either. I tried different USB sticks, still nothing. I started searching online for similar issues and eventually found the solution.

You have to use the Windows recovery function. Go to Settings, then System, then Recovery, then Advanced Startup. Once advanced startup launches, you can select your Ubuntu USB. For me, it showed up under the name Linpus Lite. After selecting Linpus Lite, I was finally able to boot into Ubuntu.

For smooth operation on the Surface, I followed the installation guide from the linux-surface repository on GitHub.

I also changed the battery (it’s a 1824 battery). I didn’t have a hot air gun or iOpener, so I used a hairdryer. I shielded the screen with some thicker cardboard to be extra careful. With some IPA, you can nicely weaken the glue. It’s easiest to start prying (with a plastic chip, not metal, as the screen could crack) from the gap where the speaker is. Inserting the chip is very easy there. Avoid making the same mistake I did: I inserted the chip too deep on the bottom side and ended up lifting the screen from the digitizer. Now there are some small bubbles visible, but when the screen is on, you can’t see them. Since this was my first repair with such a closed-down device, I learned a lot. After removing the glue remains, I put in a new battery and reassembled everything. I didn’t want to use liquid glue, so I used 3M 9495LE tape. 2mm would have probably been enough, but I had some 5mm tape. The screen now sits well and is stable in the frame again. I did a pull test with a suction cup and the screen stayed in place. So I’m confident it will hold up. There’s a good video that shows the opening process. As I mentioned before, I would personally avoid any metal tools. It’s possible to open it without them.

To read PDFs and eBooks, I installed Calibre. The battery life is also completely acceptable on the Surface. I tuned Calibre a bit, since it doesn’t work that well with touch. I also tried KOReader for a moment and will look into it more. With dark mode and gallery view enabled for the books, Calibre is currently completely usable.

The Surface is definitely not a heavy work device, but it’s decent for surfing, browsing, light work, and reading.