Raspberry Pi 4 can finally boot directly from USB (github.com)

Article summary

The Raspberry Pi 4 can now boot directly from a USB drive, eliminating the need for a microSD card. This feature was previously in beta and has now been made available by default. The update allows for more flexibility and convenience in setting up and using the Raspberry Pi 4. The new bootloader version supports USB mass storage boot, making it easier to use faster storage options like USB 3.0 drives.

Main themes

• Raspberry Pi 4 USB boot
• Bootloader update
• Convenience and flexibility
• Documentation and support
• Comparison to earlier models
• User experience and feedback

What commenters say

• The ability to boot from USB is a significant improvement, offering more convenience and flexibility in setting up and using the Raspberry Pi 4.
• Some users have been able to boot from USB on earlier Raspberry Pi models, making this feature less of a novelty for them.
• The update process and documentation could be improved to reduce confusion and frustration among users.
• The Raspberry Pi 4's boot process is different from earlier models, which made implementing USB boot more challenging.
• The ability to boot from USB without an SD card is a major advantage, eliminating the need for an additional component.
• Some users feel that the Raspberry Pi representatives were condescending and unhelpful in their responses to questions and concerns about the update.
• The feature is seen as a big deal because it simplifies the boot process and allows for easier use of faster storage options.
• The convenience of booting from USB without manual setup is a significant benefit, even if it was possible to achieve similar results with manual configuration.