Solved What is trackpad scrolling like on Linux?

[LinuxOCD]

I'm currently using Linux in a virtual machine. I'm learning a lot and having a blast! However, the scrolling is jumpy/choppy and does not give me the same experience as my Mac. I would like to make an investment and buy a dedicated linux laptop but I don't think I can live with how bad the scrolling is.

My question to those here running Linux on laptops, how is your trackpad scrolling? Is it a smooth experience when reading large .PDF files. Does the Linux Distribution matter when it comes to a smooth scrolling experience? Does anyone here have any recommendations for a Linux hardware compatible laptop with a glass touchpad? Any help or advice is appreciated.

Thank you.

 

[Fanboi]

Does anyone here have any recommendations for a Linux hardware compatible laptop with a glass touchpad?

Any laptop model, but 1-2 years old if you err on the side of caution. Some stores may let you try a LiveCD, heavily supervised on a floor model...
I can only comment on Dell and Asus since I've only owned those brands for any length of time. Dell serves me well, stunning build quality and my Inspiron 3558 is turning 10 in 2025 and will has been 9 years in service. Only thing I did recently was swap the Kingston 4GB module for 2x4GB Arktek (some unknown brand like that) and the hdd to my old ssd. Now it's as good as modern.

My question to those here running Linux on laptops, how is your trackpad scrolling?

Yes. My track can do:
Tap = L-click
Two-finger tap = R-Click
Two-finger scroling, horizontal and verticle

However, the scrolling is jumpy/choppy and does not give me the same experience as my Mac

Mainly because:

I'm currently using Linux in a virtual machine.

Depending on which VM software, you will need drivers installed within it. Also, IDK what Mac you are using, but it is wiser to err on the side of caution for M-series, so getting a dedicated laptop is best. Try booting a LiveCD with good HW detection and pre-packaged drivers like Manjaro if you want a taste on how it'd run on a Mac. As far as running in a VM, you pretty much have the same issue with any VM on any device without the correct drivers, mode, and hardware capabilities (running a VM can be intensive unless you're running it on metal under hypervisor).

 

[dferter]

I'm currently using Linux in a virtual machine. I'm learning a lot and having a blast! However, the scrolling is jumpy/choppy and does not give me the same experience as my Mac. I would like to make an investment and buy a dedicated linux laptop but I don't think I can live with how bad the scrolling is.

My question to those here running Linux on laptops, how is your trackpad scrolling? Is it a smooth experience when reading large .PDF files. Does the Linux Distribution matter when it comes to a smooth scrolling experience? Does anyone here have any recommendations for a Linux hardware compatible laptop with a glass touchpad? Any help or advice is appreciated.

Thank you.

For smooth scrolling on Linux, especially with large PDFs, choosing a Linux-compatible laptop like the Dell XPS or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 series with a quality touchpad can make a difference.

 

[LinuxOCD]

Fanboi / dferter ,​

This is exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you for taking the time to reply to my post. You convinced me to make an investment into a dedicated Linux machine.

Thanks again!