I have a 256 GB SanDisk Ultra microSD card and a USB-connected SD card reader. I want to install Linux, and the instructions mention flashing a USB drive with Rufus. Can I use the microSD card and adapter instead, and how can I tell whether my computer will boot from it?
4 Answers
Yes, a few systems can boot directly from an SD card, and a USB adapter may work as well. You need to write the Linux ISO to the card with a tool such as Rufus, then boot into the live Linux environment and start the installer. After Linux is installed, you can remove the card, reformat it, and use it normally again.
You can also use a tool like Ventoy if you want to keep other files on the card or try multiple Linux ISO files. Just remember that booting from SD cards is not supported on every computer, and performance may be slower than with a proper USB flash drive.
It can work, but your computer's firmware has to recognize the card or adapter as a bootable device. Check the BIOS or UEFI boot menu for the SD card or its USB adapter. If it appears there, you should be able to boot the Linux installer from it.
How do I check whether it appears in the boot menu?
It depends on the adapter. Some adapters present the card like a normal USB drive and work with Rufus, while others identify themselves as card readers that the motherboard cannot boot from. A regular USB flash drive is more reliable, but the SD setup is worth trying if you already have it.
So I can reuse the card for normal storage after the installation?