Hi,
I would like to replace my old tiny server (a thin client repurposed as host to a couple of services) with containers running on my hAP AX3.
However, I essentially have to run the containers on an external USB drive. Since the containers are small, I would like to use some USB pendrive for that, but I wonder how long does it last before failing (not so many writes but not read only).
Do you think that regular pendrives are enough for this purpose or high-endurance/industrial pendrive are needed?

Thanks if you share your experiences.

Hello, i installed my pi-hole and adguardhome containers on a usb-to-sata adapter which hosts an old Adata 128 GB ssd. That should last like 8-10 years of medium use.
I had bad experience with regular flash drives so i figured the adapter+ssd combo is still cheap and more reliable.

Flash is flash.
Flash used in pendrives should be more or less the same quality as flash used on MT devices.
It's best to avoid lesser know brands, however.
I've run some things on a Pi-3 for years using a flash drive. No issues whatsoever.
Currently I run 3 containers on RB5009 using Sandisk flash drive. No issues.

FWIW: SSD is also Flash. Higher grade but flash nonetheless.

Higher grade but flash nonetheless.

Exactly, most of them brands publish a "TBW" max so you can get a better idea how long it will last while pendrives rarely give any indication how long they will last (except by branding and warrsnty maybe..).

Thanks for your experiences. I will probably start with a consumer pendrive of some well-known brand and I will see if I will need an upgrade (for either durability or speed).

Thanks again.