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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallChoose a virtual machine (VM) to learn Linux, test software, or use Linux alongside Windows without restarting. Choose dual boot when you need Linux to run directly on your computer’s hardware, particularly for workloads limited by a VM’s graphics, CPU, or disk performance. The right choice depends on what you’ll run and your PC’s resources—not on a universal speed or safety rule.
How the two setups work
Dual boot runs Linux directly on your PC
Linux is installed on the computer alongside Windows. When you start the PC, you choose which operating system to launch; to switch systems later, you restart. Ubuntu documents an option to install Ubuntu alongside Windows, but the process depends on your PC and the Ubuntu release you install: Ubuntu Desktop installation guide.
A virtual machine runs Linux inside your current operating system
A VM runs Linux as a guest while Windows (or another operating system) remains the host. You can use both at once, but the guest depends on the host to manage access to the computer’s hardware and resources. Ubuntu’s community-maintained VirtualBox page describes using a VM to experiment with software without risking damaging changes to the host operating system: Ubuntu Community Help Wiki: VirtualBox. A VM is not a perfect security boundary.
Which option fits your use?
| Your priority | Better starting point | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Learning Linux or trying it occasionally | Virtual machine | Use Linux alongside your existing desktop and avoid restarting to switch systems. |
| Testing Linux software or keeping a disposable guest environment | Virtual machine | A guest provides a separate environment for experimentation, though it is not a guarantee against all host or security risks. |
| Using Linux daily while keeping Windows available | Depends on workload | A VM is convenient if its hardware and performance limits do not affect your work. Dual boot gives Linux direct access to the PC after startup, but you must restart to change systems. |
| High-performance graphics or hardware-sensitive work | Usually dual boot | Direct access to the physical machine can matter for demanding graphics or devices. VM device access depends on the hypervisor and its passthrough support. |
| Running Linux and Windows at the same time | Virtual machine | Dual boot requires a restart to move from one installed system to the other. |
Performance depends on the workload and VM setup
It is not accurate to say every VM is slow or that dual boot is always faster. Canonical’s comparison notes that VirtualBox can have limited disk input/output or CPU-bound performance and does not provide high-performance GPU capability in the configuration it describes: Canonical: Virtual machines vs. containers. Those are cautions about that setup, not a benchmark comparing all VMs with dual boot.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Modern processors include virtualization features that can improve VM performance, but they do not remove every workload or device limitation. Consider what your Linux applications actually need: for light development, learning, and testing, a VM may be sufficient; for demanding graphics or work that depends on direct device access, dual boot is often a better fit. Neither option has a guaranteed performance result across PCs.
Check your PC before installing either setup
For a VM
- Confirm the PC has enough memory, processor capacity, and storage to run the host and Linux guest together.
- Check that virtualization is available and enabled for your hardware and VM software.
- Check whether the guest needs graphics or device features that your hypervisor cannot provide.
- For Hyper-V, Ubuntu’s instructions describe attaching an Ubuntu ISO to the VM’s virtual DVD drive and selecting the bootable image in the VM wizard: Ubuntu on Hyper-V.
For dual boot
- Back up important files and preserve access to your Windows recovery information before changing partitions.
- Check available disk space, partition layout, and firmware or boot configuration for your PC.
- Check Windows encryption before following the installation procedure for your chosen Ubuntu release.
- Use the instructions for the exact Ubuntu version you plan to install; alongside-install steps and encryption support can vary by release.
Windows encryption and Ubuntu version matter
The Ubuntu Desktop 24.04 installation guide says to disable BitLocker for the alongside-Windows procedure it documents. Ubuntu’s 26.04 LTS release notes describe improved handling for some BitLocker-protected Windows layouts when enough unallocated space is available, or when a partition can be resized sufficiently: Ubuntu 26.04 LTS release notes. These are release- and layout-specific instructions, not a blanket assurance that every encrypted Windows installation can dual boot without preparation. Follow the guide for the Ubuntu version you are installing and keep your Windows recovery information accessible.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Installation media: USB for a PC, ISO for a VM
Ubuntu’s desktop download instructions describe using a USB flash drive to boot a physical PC and install or try Ubuntu: Download Ubuntu Desktop. That is relevant to physical installation or live testing. For a VM, you can use an ISO as virtual installation media instead, as in Ubuntu’s Hyper-V instructions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
A practical way to decide
- Start with your main task. For learning, occasional use, or software testing, try a VM. For graphics-intensive work or a workload that needs direct hardware access, investigate dual boot.
- Check whether the VM meets the workload. Confirm available host resources and whether your needed graphics or devices are supported by the hypervisor.
- If choosing dual boot, verify the installation details first. Review backups, firmware mode, disk layout, encryption, and the installation guide for your exact Ubuntu release.
- If uncertain, try a VM before changing partitions. This is a practical way to discover whether its limits affect your work; if they do, assess dual boot carefully before modifying the disk.
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