Okay, so I haven’t seen anyone else mention this, but using Linux on a Surface requires a custom kernel and knowledge about how to install Linux with a nonstandard kernel. see the linux-surface project on github for more info.
I recently had the displeasure of installing raspian on a Surface RT. Which is another beast that I absolutely do not recommend to anyone.
Otherwise, your best bet is a framework or a lenovo.
As for the DE, even though I love KDE and mainly use it these days, the extra padding on GNOME makes that DE probably more suited to touch. At least the interface looks very touch-centric










So is this why the macook neo is repairable?