Solid state via USB adapter Vs USB Flash

Smallclone

Hi,

I currently run Linux Mint on a USB Flash drive (16GB) to an Intel Celeron NUC. I only use it for browsing and VLC Media playback - it's ok but not exactly snappy.

I was therefore wondering whether installing Linux Mint on a 120GB Solid State drive connected via one of these would make the experience any better? Or not?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/USB-SATA-Adapter-Cable-Drives-en-GB-SATA-USB-3-0-converter/dp/B01N2JIQR7

Thanks for any advice.

EndlessWaves

Without knowing anything about the drive or the rest of the system it's very hard to give a definitive answer. If it's a high end thumb drive I wouldn't expect it to make much difference. If it's a mid-range one it may or may not help depending on what the rest of the system is and if it's just a cheap one then it should help even if the rest of the system has limitations too.

Have you actually installed Mint to that drive or are you running it as a Live disk?

Also, why not use the SATA port inside the NUC instead of buying an external adapter?

Smallclone

Thanks, Yes it's the full Linux Mint installed on a 16GB low end flash disk. usb 2.0. The NUC is similar to this one:

Intel NUC Kit DCCP847DYE  Intel QS77 2 x 204Pin Celeron 847 1.1GHz - Newegg.com

I don't really know to be honest, I thought maybe it would help cool it down if it was external?

stevelup

If it is that particular model then your best bet would be an mSATA drive.

EndlessWaves

Probably, but you'll notice much more performance benefit from having it connected to SATA/mSATA directly than having it slightly cooler.

Most of the NUCs came in cases with or without 2.5" drive support, but I think that particular one might have been mSATA-only.