What are /r/surfaceprox's favorite Products & Services?

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I usually prefer to install things sans installer. I don't know how .Net Core SDK does it, but with Powershell core I throw it in the Program Files and add it to the system $PATH environment variable.

And just use the git in Linux. Even on x86 Windows I make the same suggestion. It just takes one bad egg to ruin the bunch, and most dev houses make Linux/*nix a first class citizen. Obviously the recommendation is reversed if everything you work in is Windows first (.e.g. Windows Server). I definitely have fewer line ending issues by sticking with WSL2 git.

You just use VSCode's WSL extension and use the Docker extension in there. Works natively. I believe VSCode ARM64 is still Insiders only so you'll have to get used to the green icon. https://code.visualstudio.com/insiders/

>Powertoys have an ARM version.

I thought maybe I'd missed something, but no, they don't yet. Supposedly still working on it, like they've been saying since October 2019.

https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys/issues/490

But honestly, Powertoys doesn't even really matter, it's not a key part of their strategy going forward. But Your Phone is. Still runs in emulation. Xbox is. The Store doesn't let you install that at all (there are ways around that, but you're still running in emulation). OneDrive is. (And maybe we'll see a beta of that with ARM support this year supposedly).

What has Microsoft really put out at all this year that supports ARM? Mostly just developer frameworks that should have been ready with ARM support before they ever even released a commercial device running on ARM.

And yet... Skype used to run native on ARM, but it's in emulation now. Minecraft used to run native on ARM, but only emulation now. Whiteboard used to run native on ARM, but the new version is emulation only (though they've rolled the new version back because it was an absolute clusterfuck of a release).

When's the last time a big-name third-party app was released on ARM? Photoshop back in May? Microsoft owns Electron, and Electron supports ARM64 (and has for a very long time), have they been working with any developers to get them to put out ARM-native versions?

Hell, the GPU driver of their device has even been buggy (with video decode) since launch and they never got Qualcomm to fix that. I like my Pro X and it's my main device, but ARM is a side project for Microsoft, instead of their primary focus like it is for Apple. Until Microsoft shows otherwise, I wouldn't recommend it right now.

Bit more expensive and Rugged but works well for me. Annoyingly half the price now. It really is a good case and the nice thing about it is that you can still use the built in kickstand

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B08B6BW7V9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Hey I just want to thank you for posting this.
If it wasn't for me seeing this, I would have never purchased IVPN with wireguard support. Just got it configured and running well. Thanks for the tip!

Amazon.com: Kensington Surface Pro X Rugged Case - Blackbelt 2nd Degree Rugged Case for Surface Pro X (K97324WW): Computers & Accessories

I don't have this (or anything) on my SPX, but I'm familiar with the brand.

To date no issues with VPN whatsoever.

PureVPN using their app (32 bit)

Wireguard VPN client to a personal Wireguard VPN server on Raspberry Pi (UDP)

OpenVPN client to a two personal VPN servers on Raspberry Pi (UDP + TCP)

For sh*ts and giggles, I also tested

OpenVPN client to personal OpenVPN server, connecting through a TOR hidden , although slowwwwww

OpenVPN client to personal OpenVPN server, connecting via SSH client (Bitvise) to SSH server (Bitvise) with port redirection, connected through TOR hidden

So, pretty sure no issues with VPN....8-)

https://www.amazon.sg/Microsoft-XIWMIX-Portable-Bluetooth-Rechargeable/dp/B0B2R7W22V/ref=sr_1_43?keywords=surface+pro+x&qid=1664678657&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjIyIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sr=8-43

Huh. Try this one.

https://www.amazon.sg/Microsoft-XIWMIX-Portable-Bluetooth-Rechargeable/dp/B0B2R7W22V/ref=d_pd_vtp_sccl_1_5/357-3916428-9515322?pd_rd_w=Yt6Cv&content-id=amzn1.sym.6b7d5f8d-ca46-4d8b-9426-66a123adc573&pf_rd_p=6b7d5f8d-ca46-4d8b-9426-66a123ad...

PureVPN? I bought a "lifetime subscription" from them when it was offered as a deal. After two years they cancelled it. This is the type of company that will screw you over. Stick with NordVPN of Surfshark

PDF-XChange Editor. Has free and paid versions, ARM64 MSI installers, it works great on my SPX. https://www.tracker-software.com/product/pdf-xchange-editor

I haven't tried this on my Surface, but I use this alcantara cleaner on my steering wheel and it works perfectly. Just spray on a microfiber cloth and scrub in 4 directions.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08L8B65MW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I just discovered the Wireguard app form ARM64 and it is so much better and simpler than the OpenVPN app and Viscosity.

OpenVPN and Viscosity were more of a hassle to set up and neither would reconnect after waking the device. It was super annoying to have to manually reconnect every time I woke my device. And this also meant that, if I forgot, I might be surfing the open internet, when I didn't mean to.

But Wireguard stays connected no problem, after waking the device. It also connects super fast compared to OpenVPN. And it has a killswitch option to force all traffic through the VPN, using firewall rules, and avoid leaks (I tried but could not figure out how to set up Windows firewall rules for this myself--and there's a surprising lack of guides online). However, I discovered that if I kill the Wireguard processes in Task Manager, then the firewall rules reset (I guess) and instead of blocking the internet altogether, the system reverts to the open internet. So it's not as good of a kill switch as you get in the Mullvad app, on systems that the app works on.

I also found that if tried to import a tunnel in the Wireguard manager app, it crashes. So instead I had to create an empty tunnel and then just cut and paste the settings from the file that the Mullvad Wireguard generator produces.

So it's not perfect and I still would love to see a native ARM64 VPN app for Windows from a good service (ProtonVPN says they may be working on one at some point in the future). But the Wireguard app is a big improvement over OpenVPN and Viscosity.

Also take a look at Amazon renewed. Prime shipping plus a 90 day return window, no questions asked. I picked up an 16GB SQ1 + LTE model for $800 back in August. It was Microsoft refurbished, as good as new and still in all the plastic.

Amazon

I tried some apps becuse my Steam library is not that big, the Minecraft Bedrock ARM64 version got discontinued but the 64bit version is surprisingly okay (30-60fps).

The thing that surprised me was that the emulation seems to emulate not every single component so some apps still did not work (like ProtonVPN).

I heard back from Mullvad and everything is working successfully on my SPX.

For anyone interested, here are the instructions:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=35460

Mouse without Borders

I used this quite a bit in the past. Its free, worked great for me.

I prefer it, too. I use both of my Surfi (an SPX and an SP8) side by side, and always find myself using the SP8's keyboard (just like you do, flat) to type. I use it to control both computers, using the Synergy utility.

The client does not, however you can configure the windows client to connect to specific servers, but you need to add a certificate and modify regedit.

I'll update this response when I get back to my computer. I bookmarked the support page for when I need to redo it eventually (like when I find a cheap 1TB+ drive to swap in eventually).

Edit:

https://protonvpn.com/support/windows-10-ikev2-vpn-setup/

I did run into the 'Policy match error' thing listed at the bottom. that's the regedit thing.

I recommend you, based on my personnal usage, the PDF X-change editor app.
They offer a free version full of features and with ARM64 executables !
The app is super smooth and render the pages faster than any other apps i tried.

https://www.tracker-software.com/product/pdf-xchange-editor

Tell me what you think of it x)

I know it not really the idea solution but when I absolutely have to use cad on the go I spin up my Shadow Pc on my Pro x and run it remotely. This works pretty well, it can be a bit laggy if your on a slow connection but as far as I can see its the only way your going to do CAD on a pro x any time soon. https://shadow.tech/gben/ but then given the waiting list for shadow PC's you might get Autocad on arm first !

shadow.tech

I've heard rumblings of the 32 bit client working well on SPX, over on the r/shadow sub.

It's pretty niche, given that it really only works well if you're in a region they have a DC in. I'm a few hundred miles from mine. On DSL with 30-100 ms pings, it can get dicey... but at the new house on fiber, I expect it to run flawlessly.

Simple, cheap and does the business, the Moko folio like this does what you need, the edging and cut out should meet your need.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/MoKo-Compatible-Microsoft-Surface-Lightweight-Black/dp/B0837G46BW/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=moko+surface+pro+x&qid=1631904705&sr=8-4

I hear you, this one is pretty good as well much cheaper and it might do the trick for you.

Limited-time deal: USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor,USB C Dual Monitor 2 HDMI Adapter,Triple Display 4K HDMI&VGA,14 in 1-3USB3.0&2USB2.0,Gigabit Ethernet,100W PD,SD/TF Card Reader,Type-C Data Transfer,3.5mm Audio https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HM1LF9P/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_dl_BB4GJQ932Y22ZKARHANX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

If you want to handle it without taking the risk, I would buy a UAG case. It's not cheap, but if you look on eBay you might find a great deal. I bought mine for $35 on eBay. Best case ever. The strap makes it even more versatile.

https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Surface-Shoulder-Feather-Light-Military/dp/B07G9R5H2X/ref=sr\_1\_7?crid=1JK553IE8IQJE&dchild=1&keywords=uag+surface+pro+x&qid=1631746609&s=electronics&sprefix=uag+surf%2Celectronics%2C308&sr...

I legit sticked a finger holder behind mine. Its more comfy. I use something like this

Syncwire Cell Phone Ring Holder Stand [2 Pack], 360 Degree Rotation Finger Ring Kickstand with Polished Metal Phone Grip for Magnetic Car Mount Compatible with iPhone, Samsung, LG, Sony, HTC https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V6P9QT9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_J40K9FPRRDW2GPJC6ZST

I think this is the one I bought, if you ever decide to give it a try. It peels off easily even after being on there for months. I just did the back of the device. Gave me significant more confidence one-handing it.

https://www.amazon.com/XISICIAO-Protective-Microsoft-Released-Protector/dp/B082LTCLZX/ref=pd\_sbs\_1/144-8086295-6494811?pd\_rd\_w=MDL1c&pf\_rd\_p=f8e24c42-8be0-4374-84aa-bb08fd897453&pf\_rd\_r=004RRRVQM5MTRB1W7BYH&pd\_rd\_r=47784caf-2...

Almost any webcam should work, as any webcam that supports the UVC protocol can work with nearly any device. You would only need an adapter to go from usb C to A, like this one, and any generic usb webcam.

If you are looking for a USB C webcam, they're usually pretty expensive. I know the Logitech StreamCam comes with a usb C webcam.

My highest recommendation would be to use the built in webcam, as it's one of the best on any laptop. If you need an external webcam, I would just buy a cheap one and get an adapter. If you must have a USB C webcam, the Logitech StreamCam has one.

I am actually using NordVPN in my SPX for the past year or so. I use IKEv2/IPsec protocol using built-in Windows 10 client. Configuration guidance is on NORDvpn site.

Since November 2020, I get 'policy mismatch error' which can be rectified by using a command provided by NOEDVPN tech support. It only happens on the initial setup. Apparently it is due to a Windows bug

NordVPN app will not install on a plain vanilla SPX, just tried, borks during install.

I'm not on the dev branch so can't tell you if it will install on that

Workaround

Download the 32 bit version of OpenVPN and install

Community Downloads | OpenVPN

I use my AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt and it works great. But I am also a semi audiophile so use it in car and with headphone from my phone too.... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T3HSD9Z/

The Red or Black would also work, but if you want a less expensive option, this one worked for me: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Jevtech-Google-Pixel-2-Headphone-Adapter-USB-C-to-3-5mm-Adapter-with-Chip-DAC-/233838014820

I just tried this USB-C to RJ45 adapter and find that it works fine. Kind of annoying that Microsoft's own Travel Hub doesn't work and this one does.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077KXY71Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I Have this one that uses USB-C - Works perfectly

​

https://www.amazon.com.au/HARIBOL-Display-Docking-Station-Displays/dp/B088RFVR6X/ref=sr_1_12?dchild=1&keywords=usb-c+dual+hdmi&qid=1612043535&sr=8-12

Personally, I don't use the Surface Connect port for anything, because I want to be able to dock old laptops or my work laptop or any future non-Surface devices.

If I was buying a new docking station now, it'd be this from Plugable: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08NXV94QM/

Only $30 (but needs USB-C power in to charge your Surface). It has Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI out supporting 4k60 (on a DP1.4 device like the Pro X), 2 USB 3.0, SD and microSD. But if you need two displays you'll need something else, and it also has a pretty short cord between the dock and the device.

I use a Dell 38 inch curved monitor. It has a built in KVM switch. Power, video, and up to 4 usb connections all through one usb-c cable. I love it. I get the added bonus of switching to my main desktop with ease.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073FHWTPL

Same with NordVPN. You can simply configure Windows VPN to use NordVPN access. Granted, you won't have the ease use that the app brings, but on the other hand, having two or three VPN options configured for quick access in the network panel where wifi and cellular sit is neat and tidy ...

Instructions from NordVPN:

I can only suggest you switch VPN, I heard from other Redditors about lack of support in NordVPN. I have been using VPN, that cost lower than NordVPN, I connected to a 5-year plan only for $50 with promo code(can share with you). And they have a lot of features for me. Look ar their site, I think you will like it.

If I may ask, not replying to your question... I have tried to setup the VPN connection but could not succeed... What VPN do you use and what protocol do you use?

In my case, I use NordVPN, trying to setup a manual connection using OpenVPN settings. The connection is successful but extremely slow, constantly getting timeouts... Bonus is that

Which client are you referring to? There are two different Windows OpenVPN GUI clients and there's also Viscosity. While I wait for a new SPX to arrive, I'm using the older OpenVPN GUI version (11.14?) that works with ExpressVPN profiles on x86. Newer OpenVPN v3 releases don't work with the fragment directive used by ExpressVPN.

I see a lot of posts that many VPNs not working with the Pro X, but for what its worth OpenVPN has a native ARM64 version for Windows. The GUI client is still x64-32 and will be emulated, but the TAP driver, the important part for both compatibility and efficiency, is native ARM64.

And the majority of VPN providers I've seen provide OpenVPN support, many as their method of Linux and/or Router support. ProtonVPN and ExpressVPN are two examples I know support openvpn. I don't use a commercial VPN myself so it is very possible I don't know them all or even the most popular ones. But if your preferred VPN provider doesn't offer a native app, check for OpenVPN support, as that'll work on the Pro X.

Use OpenVPN every day myself to connect to my own servers, and it works great

I've used Private Internet Access for a time. Their Windows app to connect doesn't work on the Pro X, but you can configure the native Windows VPN service to go through PIA and it works fine. I don't use this a ton, so I can't really speak to the quality of service compared to others though.

I have this case and it helps a bit: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082FWMGB7

Honestly, you probably should have gotten an actual laptop if you primarily needed a laptop. The Galaxy Book S is similar (but maybe slightly slower).

I also read once that the USB-C charger must be at least 60W PD or the Surface Pro X would not charge. My experience so far verifies this - I've been using this for charging on the go: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07S8SDD4D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I personally use the DUX shell from STM australia. Combined with the keyboard cover, it gives it really good protection from damage, although it does add a noticeable amount of extra weight to the device

link to case

dont think they are 4k though. amazon cheap monitors. pretty good quality though. have purchased over 14 and have not had any issues with them. good bang for the buck. all connected via hdmi https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0773ZY26F/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1