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Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

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Re: Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

#51
post #21

Earlier quoted context omitted.

The lack of one modifier key left of the keyboard is an issue to me. Equivalent Windows laptops cost about the same and have an extra key. And can run Linux just fine.

Caps Lock is useless. Map it to Control and the search key to Super, and you have all the modifiers you need, and in a more comfortable configuration besides.

That's still one key short.

Re: Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

#52
OpenPandora, the Pyra would be better but not readily available immediately. Fit in pocket easily, keys might be a tad too small for you? Another pocket sized device is GPD Win, which I believe you can install Linux onto the first version. Just some options, leaning more on the small form factor side/.

Re: Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

#53
Take a look into a few chromebooks. The models with crostini have a full built in Linux dev environment complete with a terminal and the ability to run standard Linux apps like vscode. The pixelbook go had my favorite keyboard and is a nice size. You might like that! The discontinued slate is really nice too.

Re: Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

#56
post #47

I have tried many, believe me. First thing, if it has glossy screen I would quickly discard it - your vision health is worth much more than a pretty picture in Facebook. Having said this, I would go for dell XPS family. They are not cheap but they are very robust. In addition, screen border is almost nonexistent so all it's size is for your screen. Very good Linux support (there is a a version that ships with Ubuntu)…

Recently I ordered a matte screen protector for my MacBook Pro, and it works really well. I would not immediately write off all laptops with glossy screens.

(Note I don't have a recommendation for a particular screen protector, I used a local supplier in my tiny little European country).

Re: Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

#57
Nearly all comments are completely missing the most important point in the OP question: "The small form factor is important so I can keep it with me like you would keep a physical paper notebook with you".

When one says a physical paper notebook, it means something that is small and portable and you can put it in your pocket or a small bag, not a 13" laptop that weighs 2 kilos that you need a special and when you open it takes up huge space so you need to clear the table. Even a 10-11" laptop is not really something you would keep with you all day long.

I recommend a mini laptop that is at most 8" in size. I don't have spare cash for a second laptop at this moment and I use a 14" Latitude for all coding, but I would love to have something with the following form size: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L7DVDL3

Re: Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

#58
post #51

Earlier quoted context omitted.

Caps Lock is useless. Map it to Control and the search key to Super, and you have all the modifiers you need, and in a more comfortable configuration besides.

That's still one key short.

What do you use hyper for? It's cool that DEs support binding it, but I've never found a use.

Re: Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

#60
> I'm looking for something as small as possible

ASUS Eee PC.[0]

FTR, The smallest laptop — Ben NanoNote.[1]

BTW, I would recommend instead just use any Android device + Termux app + compact Bluetooth/WiFi/USB-keyboard.

[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asus_Eee_PC

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_NanoNote

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