OS on external USB key - how fast is it?

[arnaud.mar]

Folks,
I am thinking of installing my system on a 64Gb external USB key 3.0 and I wonder if this will make my Mac run faster (My system is currently installed on the internal HDD [1Tb, 5400 rpm] of my MacMini)

Do someone have any experience on this?

Thanks in advance for your help,
Arnaud

 

[jbarley]

I keep a cloned backup on a USB3 key, for emergency restore purposes only.
I serves its purpose as such but it is way-way too slow for regular use.

 

[crsh1976]

Not a good idea, and it sure won't be faster (not after a while, no TRIM and garbage collection on such a device); using a SSD in a USB 3 external case however would give you the speed and sturdiness you're looking for.