You can build for Linux and Android on a Windows PC using two separate toolchains: WSL 2 provides a Linux environment for command-line development, while Android Studio for Windows provides the Android SDK and app-development tools. Use WSL 2 for Linux-oriented work and Android Studio for Android apps; test Android apps in an emulator or on a physical device. A successful WSL build alone does not prove an application works on every native Linux distribution.
Choose the right Windows development environment
| Option | Best for | Important trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| WSL 2 | Linux command-line tools and Linux-targeted development integrated with Windows | Where project files live affects performance, and building in WSL does not validate compatibility with every native Linux distribution. |
| Windows-native build tools | Projects intended for Windows toolchains and workflows | They do not provide the same Linux environment as WSL 2. |
| VS Code with WSL | Editing and using Linux tools in a Windows editor experience | Development tools and terminals run inside the WSL environment. |
| Visual Studio 2022 with WSL | C++ build and debug workflows involving WSL | Microsoft recommends CMake when the same C++ project needs to build and debug across Windows, WSL, and remote systems. |
WSL is a Windows feature that runs a Linux filesystem, command-line tools, and GUI apps alongside Windows. See Microsoft’s WSL overview. Android development is a separate setup: Android Studio runs as a Windows application and installs Android SDK packages through its setup wizard.
Set up WSL 2 for Linux builds
Install a Linux distribution
- Check that the PC runs Windows 10 version 2004 (build 19041) or later, or Windows 11.
- Open PowerShell or Command Prompt and run
wsl --install. Microsoft says this enables the WSL and Virtual Machine Platform components, downloads the Linux kernel, sets WSL 2 as the default, and installs Ubuntu. - Restart if prompted, then complete the Linux distribution’s first-run setup. You can choose a different distribution if your work requires one.
Follow the current WSL installation guide for the precise options and any changes to prerequisites.
Keep Linux build projects in the WSL filesystem
For projects built with Linux tools, use a directory such as /home/<user>/project inside the Linux filesystem. Microsoft identifies running Linux build tools against project files under the Windows-mounted /mnt/c path as a common performance mistake. Windows and Linux can share files, but file location is a meaningful workflow choice; see Microsoft’s filesystem guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
- 【Back of Phone Suction Grip】Remove the adhesive film on the phone suction cup and stick it on the phone case. You can then fix the phone on any smooth surface, which is very convenient. (The phone suction cup cannot be removed and reused after being attached to the phone case. It is recommended to attach it to a regular phone case, not a valuable one.)
- 【Widely Used】Our non-slip silicone phone sticky grip mount attaches to almost any flat phone case and make it compatible with common mobile phones such as iPhone and Android.You can shoot, watch videos or video calls in the kitchen, gym, dance studio, bathroom and other places.
- 【Capture the Wonderful Picture】Whether you are a TikTok creator or just like to share videos and photos, this phone suction cup can help you hands-free capture wonderful videos and photos for sharing with friends.
- 【Note】You can fix the phone suction cup on a smooth surface such as a mirror or glass. If necessary, wipe the suction cup with a damp cloth to obtain stronger suction. Before releasing your hand, make sure the phone is firmly fixed. (Not applicable to rough walls, wooden surfaces, and other uneven surfaces)
Choose an editor and build system
- VS Code: Add Microsoft’s WSL extension to work with files in the Linux environment while keeping the Windows editor interface. The extension runs development tools and terminals in WSL; see VS Code’s WSL documentation.
- Visual Studio 2022 for C++: Microsoft supports WSL 2 as a development environment. For a C++ project that must build and debug across Windows, WSL, and remote systems, Microsoft recommends CMake; see the Visual Studio WSL 2 walkthrough.
Install Android Studio on Windows
Check compatibility and resources
Android Developers’ Windows requirements list 64-bit Windows 10 as the minimum, require virtualization support, and state that ARM-based Windows machines are not currently supported. The 2026 requirements guide lists 8 GB RAM and 8 GB free disk space for Android Studio alone, or 16 GB RAM and 16 GB free disk space for Android Studio with the Emulator; 32 GB RAM is recommended. These are Android Developers’ stated requirements, not a guarantee that a particular project will perform well on a given PC. Check the live Android Studio installation requirements before installing, since supported systems and requirements can change.
Install the IDE and SDK
- Download the Windows installer from the Android Studio download page.
- Run the installer and follow the setup wizard. The wizard installs recommended Android SDK packages.
- After setup, open Android Studio and let it finish installing or updating the components it requests before creating or opening a project.
Choose how to test an Android app
| Test target | What it offers | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Android Emulator | Virtual device configurations and Android API levels without requiring a physical phone | Needs virtualization and meaningful local memory and storage; Android Developers recommends at least 16 GB RAM and 16 GB disk space for a good emulator experience. |
| Physical Android device | Testing on actual device hardware | A modern Android phone can be used instead of running a local emulator, which may suit a PC with limited resources. |
Android Developers describes the Emulator as a way to test across device configurations and API levels without a physical device. See the Emulator documentation and instructions for running apps on a hardware device.
Rank #2
- SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
- HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO — The speakers inside EarPods have been engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, which means you get high-quality audio.
- BUILT-IN REMOTE — EarPods with USB-C plug also include a built-in remote that lets you adjust the volume, control the playback of music and video, and answer or end calls with a pinch of the cord.
- COMPATIBILITY — Works with all devices that have a USB-C port.
- INTEGRATED MICROPHONE — A built-in microphone precisely captures your voice while you’re on the phone, taking a FaceTime call, or summoning Siri — so you’re always heard loud and clear.
Check Windows emulator acceleration guidance
Android Developers says Android Emulator Hypervisor Driver (AEHD) is scheduled to sunset on December 31, 2026, and tells Windows users to transition to Windows Hypervisor Platform by the end of 2026. This is a time-sensitive transition date; check the current emulator acceleration guidance when configuring or troubleshooting an emulator.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What a successful build does—and does not—establish
WSL 2 gives Windows users Linux tools and a Linux environment for building, but a successful build there is not the same as testing the resulting program on native Linux installations. Differences among distributions, libraries, and target systems can still matter. Treat WSL as the Linux development environment, then test and package against the actual Linux targets your project supports.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRank #3
- Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
- Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere, perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
- Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style.
- Black PopSockets: Simple, refined, and endlessly versatile. A timeless essential for any phone.
- Travel Must-Have for People On the Go: A must-have travel accessory for flights, flying, airports, air travel, airplanes, planes, international trips, cruises, and long travel days. Key gadget for your airport haul, travel accessories and must-haves.
Likewise, Android Studio is the development environment, not a substitute for testing. An emulator is useful for checking multiple virtual configurations and API levels; a physical device lets you test on real hardware. This setup guidance does not establish benchmark performance or guarantee that a specific computer can build a particular project.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
- 【Friendly to Content Creators】If you are a content creator or an online influencer, you can create videos anywhere with this suction mount completely hands free with this silicone cell phone mount for cases.
- 【HANDS-FREE & Adhere to Mirrors】This Double Sided silicone suction phone case mount allows you to stick your phone to the mirror easily. No longer holding your phone in one hand to watch video tutorials while making up.
- 【Strong Grip on the Smooth Surface】You can easily hang your phone anywhere with a smooth surface. All you do is you clean off your phone and smooth surface. It is STURDY and it not only sticks to mirrors, it also sticks to windows, it sticks to refrigerators, tiles and other clean, flat surfaces.
- 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.
Rank #4
- [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
- [Wide compatibility] The ultra-thin 0.02-inch design does not block the charging port at all, and both wired and wireless charging can be used directly without removing the pad. Compatible with most smartphones such as iPhone, compatible with various wristbands, lanyards, crossbody straps, and keychains
- [Durable and Portable Material] Premium rust-resistant stainless steel material with good flexibility, which not only avoids scratching the phone case, but also has excellent anti rust and anti fading performance
- [Multi scenario Practical] Paired with a lanyard or wristband, hands-free use can be achieved. The phone is within reach and not easily dropped, ideal for daily commuting and outdoor activities. Suitable for full coverage phone cases, does not support half coverage phone cases
- [Quality Service] If you find any damage or other issues with the product upon receipt, please contact us immediately. We will handle it quickly
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