Early versions of the Raspberry Pi could only boot from SD cards, but newer ones can boot from any USB device, like an external drive or USB stick. Here's how.

USB boot has been possible since the Raspberry Pi 2 Model B (v1.2), but it has only become really worthwhile with the Pi 4. Here is some information, tips, tricks and opinions explaining why and how.

Some USB thumb drives do not work, but as long as you stick with a Sandisk or Samsung, you should be okay. More interesting than USB booting is the ability for the Pi 3 to boot over the network.

Install Raspbian from a USB stick for a quick and easy installation ...

For example, the Raspberry Pi 4 won't work with a supply from a Raspberry Pi 3. The Pi 4 introduced a USB-C input with a 5V 3A minimum requirement.

The Raspberry Pi Foundation, the group behind the device, recommends using a Micro-USB power supply from a reputable company that can produce 1.2A (1,200mA) at 5V.