I use a 5K iMac (2017) and I have some software that prevents me from going beyond 10.13.6 yet more and more I need to update my OS for newer software. So, if I use an external SSD and boot from it with newer OS is it going to be all laggy or will it be as quick as the internal drive?
If it works it would be a perfect solution to my issue.
Thanks
iMac 27″, macOS 10.13
I have a 2017 27" iMac with external drives with High Sierra, Mojave and Ventura on it a they boot about the same as my internal SSD (about 30 seconds) and run as fast as the internal once booted. And I don't have the optimum SSD but just USB A to SATA adaptors:
If you get the faster cases and drives it's beet the 450 MBs I get with this setup.
I have a 2017 27" iMac with external drives with High Sierra, Mojave and Ventura on it a they boot about the same as my internal SSD (about 30 seconds) and run as fast as the internal once booted. And I don't have the optimum SSD but just USB A to SATA adaptors:
If you get the faster cases and drives it's beet the 450 MBs I get with this setup.
It might be faster, depending on your iMac's "internal drive" specifications. Your model came in a variety of configurations.
If the external SSD has a Thunderbolt 3 port, then it will be about as fast as that Mac's fastest internal storage option. So be sure to buy one that implements that specific port designation.
If you have a TB3 port then an NVME drive in a TB enclosure would be the fastest. I use a WD NVME in a TB Acasis enclosure and works very well. I also use a Trebleet enclosure with the same drive.
Booting from an external SSD should be fast on a 2017 iMac. Please read the following to learn how to set it up.
How to setup an external SSD as your startup disk
Personally I'd buy an OWC Mercury Elite Pro (enclosure only) and put a https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/S3D7P6G960/ in the enclosure and your have a nice solution. IMHO better quality than the LaCie suggested.
External SSD booting fast enough?
