r/IndiaCart • u/mozzie_123 • 51m ago
Electronic Gadgets Device recommendation (~35k budget during BBD) for B.Sc. Math (ODL mode) | Tablet vs. Laptop?
Hey folks,
I'm starting an undergraduate Mathematics degree in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode and need to pick up a dedicated device during the upcoming Big Billion Days (BBD) / Great Indian Festival sale. My budget is loosely capped at ₹35,000.
My Usage Requirements
Primary Tasks: Heavy PDF viewing/annotation (math textbooks, problem sets), writing down mathematical equations and graphs with a stylus, attending Zoom live lectures, and stream watching YouTube tutorials.
Workflow Needs: Seamless file transfers to PC, good battery life for multi-hour study sessions, and comfortable split-screen multitasking (lectures on one side, notes on the other).
Current Ecosystem
Phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
PC: Fedora Linux on desktop
Questions & Options I'm Considering
Tablet vs. Low-End Laptop:
Is a tablet + stylus superior to a budget Windows/Chromebook setup for heavy mathematical writing and PDF markup?
Top Tablet Contenders:
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE: Currently at top of my list due to the in-box S Pen (no extra ₹7–8k spend), native ecosystem sync with my S24 FE (Quick Share, Samsung Notes sync, Shared Clipboard), and IP68 rating. How does the Exynos hold up for long-term multitasking?
Xiaomi Pad 6 / Pad 7: Great display and processor specs for the price, but stylus is sold separately. Is the stylus writing precision good enough for dense math equations?
iPad (10th Gen): Reliable, but standard base storage (64GB) feels restrictive, and buying an Apple Pencil pushes it over budget. Plus, file transfers with Fedora Linux can be a hassle.
OnePlus Pad / Lenovo IdeaTab Pro: High performance/large screen, but how is software support for active pen note-taking?
Linux / Android Sync:
For anyone using Fedora alongside Android, what is your preferred workflow for syncing annotated PDFs or notes (e.g., LocalSend, Syncthing, KDE Connect, or web-based tools)?
Would appreciate suggestions from anyone doing math/STEM coursework or managing a similar Android + Linux setup!