Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) lets you install Linux distributions and use Linux applications, utilities, and Bash command-line tools from Windows. It is a practical way to try several distros without setting up dual boot, but a WSL session is not the same experience as installing a full Linux desktop in a virtual machine.
The available information does not identify the three distros tested or include observations from those tests, so it cannot support a personal ranking of which felt most familiar. Here is how to try distros in Windows for free and what to compare before deciding which fits you.
WSL or a virtual machine: which experience are you comparing?
WSL is designed to run Linux applications, utilities, and command-line tools within Windows. Microsoft says it does so without the overhead of a traditional virtual machine or dual-boot setup. That makes WSL useful for learning Linux commands and trying a distribution’s tools, but it should not be treated as a complete traditional Linux desktop comparison. Microsoft’s WSL installation guide explains the feature.
A virtual machine (VM) is a separate installation method. Microsoft describes VMs as isolated environments for testing distributions, so a VM is the better fit if you want to explore a Linux desktop as well as its command line. Microsoft’s Linux installation overview distinguishes VMs from WSL and installing Linux directly on hardware.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Check Windows and virtualization requirements
Microsoft’s documented WSL install commands apply to Windows 10 version 2004 (Build 19041) or later, or Windows 11. For Ubuntu on WSL 2, Canonical recommends Windows 11 and lists Windows 10 version 21H2 or later on a physical machine as supported in its guide. These are distinct requirements: the Ubuntu guide’s stated Windows 10 baseline is newer than Microsoft’s general WSL command baseline.
Ubuntu on WSL 2 also requires virtualization to be enabled and the Virtual Machine Platform feature turned on. Canonical says its setup command attempts to enable that feature and that a reboot is required for the change to take effect. See Canonical’s Ubuntu on WSL 2 guide for its prerequisites and installation steps.
Rank #2
- 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.
If Windows itself is running inside a VM, Ubuntu’s guide says WSL requires nested virtualization and does not recommend following its tutorial in a Windows VM. A physical Windows PC is the straightforward configuration covered by that guide.
Find and install distros with WSL
- Open PowerShell and run
wsl --list --online. This displays the distribution names currently available to install; the list can change, so use the command instead of relying on a fixed list. - Choose a listed distribution and run
wsl --install -d <DistributionName>, replacing<DistributionName>with the exact name shown by the command. Follow any prompts, then restart Windows if setup requests it. - Launch the installed distribution from the Start menu or a terminal. Complete its first-run setup prompts before using its Linux shell.
Microsoft and Canonical name Ubuntu, openSUSE, Kali, Debian, and Arch Linux among distributions usable with WSL. That does not mean each will appear in every current online list; check PowerShell for present availability. For older Windows configurations that cannot use the newer install flow, Microsoft publishes manual installation steps for older versions of WSL.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Compare familiarity without confusing unlike experiences
A meaningful comparison depends on what you want to learn. If you are comparing WSL command-line environments, assess each distro in that context rather than judging its full desktop interface. If desktop layout and default applications matter, use comparable VMs instead and account for the separate installation method.
- Setup friction: Note whether installation, first launch, and any required restart are straightforward on your Windows setup.
- Terminal and tools: Compare how comfortable the shell feels for the commands and Linux applications you expect to use.
- Package-management learning curve: Observe whether the way you install and update software makes sense to you; avoid assuming that familiarity with one distro carries over unchanged.
- Default environment: In a VM desktop comparison, look at layout and included applications. In WSL, focus on the shell and Linux tools rather than treating it as a desktop review.
- Fit for your task: Choose according to whether you want to learn Linux commands, run development tools, or explore a desktop operating system.
To claim that one of three distros feels most familiar, the comparison needs to identify those exact distros, the Windows version, whether each ran in WSL or a VM, and observations against the same criteria. Without those details, there is no evidence-based winner to name.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
