65
Two 4k external monitors through a docking station - Why is this seemingly effortless for Windows but basically impossible for Linux? (feddit.dk)
submitted 5 months ago by SorteKanin@feddit.dk to c/linux@lemmy.world
52 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I've ran into this situation multiple times at my current and previous jobs. I really want to avoid Windows and use something better, but I can't live without two external monitors.

On Windows, it "just works". I don't have to do anything.

On Linux (I tried Linux Mint today) it doesn't work. First, it only connected one of the monitors, the other one did not register. Then I switched to a different cable from the computer to the docking station and it connected both screens - however, they were locked to 30fps. I could not make them work at 60fps (and this is a major dealbreaker, I cannot live with 30fps).

This isn't really a tech support question, I'm more trying to understand what fundamentally causes this situation. Why is Linux still struggling with pretty basic functionality that Windows does with zero setup? Is it the vendor of the laptop and docking station that aren't properly supporting Linux? Or is it some other problem?

you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
[-] Dark_Arc@social.packetloss.gg 11 points 5 months ago

I would not describe Wayland in its current state as experimental. We're past that point by a fair bit.

It is actively used as the default by multiple major Linux distributions and is the advised default by both GNOME and KDE maintainers.

[-] dustyData@lemmy.world 0 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago)

Like I said, it has feature parity to about roughly over 90%, but not adoption on the software side. The DE developers are correct that they need to start supporting it as the default, because de-facto we are forced to make it so. X11 is on death row after all. But if it glitches on Wayland but not on X, then to me it is still experimental.

EDIT: BTW for me it is experimental, but also, Mint also calls it experimental, because their support from the Cinnamon DE is experimental.

this post was submitted on 04 Jun 2024
65 points (93.3% liked)

Linux

8056 readers
92 users here now

Welcome to c/linux!

Welcome to our thriving Linux community! Whether you're a seasoned Linux enthusiast or just starting your journey, we're excited to have you here. Explore, learn, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share a passion for open-source software and the endless possibilities it offers. Together, let's dive into the world of Linux and embrace the power of freedom, customization, and innovation. Enjoy your stay and feel free to join the vibrant discussions that await you!

Rules:

  1. Stay on topic: Posts and discussions should be related to Linux, open source software, and related technologies.

  2. Be respectful: Treat fellow community members with respect and courtesy.

  3. Quality over quantity: Share informative and thought-provoking content.

  4. No spam or self-promotion: Avoid excessive self-promotion or spamming.

  5. No NSFW adult content

  6. Follow general lemmy guidelines.

founded 1 year ago
MODERATORS
MigratingtoLemmy@lemmy.world