I'm curious if I can run a Linux distribution, like Ubuntu, off an external M.2 NVMe drive that connects via USB-C. Also, will I be able to access files from my other drives on my PC when running Linux? For instance, I have recording sessions saved on my F drive through Windows. I assume it should work, but I'm not entirely sure. Additionally, is it better to have Linux installed on its own drive versus a partitioned one? I'm looking for a straightforward, beginner-friendly experience with Linux as I tend to get frustrated when things don't work. Thanks for any advice you can share!
5 Answers
In short, yes! Make sure you're using a fast USB interface, though. USB-C is great, but the actual speed will depend on the technology of your motherboard and USB adapter. Some setups can be really fast, like USB4, but older USB versions may slow you down significantly. So check the specifications!
Yes, definitely!
Absolutely, you can run Linux off an external NVMe drive. Just make sure to choose the correct drive or partition during installation. I personally have a setup where I did a full install on an external drive, which allows it to boot independently from Windows – you just need to select it from your BIOS menu. Just keep an eye on the drive you select!
Yes, installing Linux on an external drive is totally feasible. You should be able to access your Windows drives as well, but keep in mind that software can behave differently across operating systems. I'm not too familiar with Reaper, but just be cautious about where your files are saved.
Yes, you can definitely run Linux from an M.2 NVMe external drive connected via USB-C. You might notice a slight speed reduction compared to an internal setup, but it's generally fine. Linux can read NTFS filesystems, so you should have access to your Windows drives. If you want to test it out first, a live distro could be a good way to go before committing to a full installation!

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