A reviewer transformed the compact X Plus Storm 10 laptop into a Linux device, finding it surprisingly capable despite its small size. The 10.5-inch convertible handles demanding tasks efficiently after switching from Windows 11. Priced at $369, it offers strong performance for on-the-go use.
The X Plus Storm 10 laptop, available for $369 on the X+ official website, measures just 10.5 inches with an IPS touchscreen at 1920x1200 resolution. Initially shipped with Windows 11, the device felt sluggish during early tests, prompting the reviewer to install Ultramarine Linux with KDE Plasma desktop environment. The installation took about five minutes, and all hardware components functioned seamlessly, including the display, networking, sound, trackpad, and Bluetooth 5.1.
The keyboard stands out for its solid feel and optimized layout, making typing comfortable even on this tiny form factor—described as the best encountered on such a small device. Performance impressed during a test running Ollama local AI with the 2GB llama3.2 model; it downloaded in under 60 seconds and generated a response to a query in less than 30 seconds, outperforming some larger desktops in efficiency.
Audio output is tinny but sufficiently loud, aided by a headphone jack, while video playback handles YouTube content up to 4K resolution adequately on the compact screen. The 3800mAh battery claims up to eight hours of use, though heavy tasks like AI processing reduce this significantly. Its aluminum chassis features a 360-degree hinge for convertible use, with a lightweight build powered by an Intel N150 or N305 processor, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and 512GB SSD.
This netbook successor avoids the pitfalls of early 2000s models, providing a viable Linux option for mobile users or as an entry-level device. Limitations include non-upgradeable RAM and modest battery life, but it suits average tasks without the awkwardness of past mini-laptops.