How to Use External Ssd As Scratch Disk Photoshop? 10 Steps!

To use an external SSD as a scratch disk in Photoshop, you need to first connect your SSD to your computer.

Then, open Photoshop, navigate to “Edit” > “Preferences” > “Performance”. Under the “Scratch Disks” section, check the box next to your SSD in the list of available drives.

A Scratch disk in Photoshop is essentially a virtual work space that Photoshop uses to perform its operations when the computer RAM is fully consumed.

When you set an external SSD as scratch disk, Photoshop will use it for temporary storage, which helps to increase your computer’s performance, particularly if you’re working on large files.

When you set an external SSD as your scratch disk, you are essentially expanding the amount of ‘workspace’ that Photoshop has at its disposal.

This can be of immense help when dealing with large files or complex edits that may otherwise slow down your computer’s performance.

It’s therefore a good idea to regularly clear out your scratch disk to ensure Photoshop continues to run smoothly.

10 Steps To Use External SSD as Scratch Disk Photoshop

Step	Description
1	Connect the external SSD to your computer. Make sure it is properly connected and recognized by your computer.
2	Open Photoshop.
3	Go to “Edit” (Windows) or “Photoshop” (Mac) in the top menu, then select “Preferences,” and finally choose “Performance.”
4	Locate the “Scratch Disks” section in the Performance Preferences window.
5	Click on the “Add” or “+” button next to the Scratch Disks list.
6	Browse and select your external SSD from the list of available drives. Make sure to choose a drive with enough free space for your Photoshop projects.
7	Press “OK” to confirm your selection.
8	(Optional) Adjust the order of scratch disks by clicking the “Up” or “Down” arrows next to each drive, according to your preference. This determines which disk Photoshop uses first when it needs more memory.
9	Click “OK” to close the Preferences window and save your settings.
10	Restart Photoshop for the hanges to take effect. Your external SSD should now be set as a scratch disk for Photoshop.

Ssd Vs. Hdd: Understanding The Difference For Photoshop Workflows

Discover the key differences between SSD and HDD for efficient Photoshop workflows. Learn how to optimize your external SSD as a scratch disk in Photoshop, boosting performance and enhancing your editing experience.

In the world of Photoshop, having a reliable scratch disk is crucial for optimizing performance and enhancing your workflow efficiency.

While traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) have been the norm for many years, solid-state drives (SSDs) are increasingly becoming the go-to choice for professionals.

In this section, we will explore the benefits of using an external SSD as a scratch disk and the limitations of relying on an HDD.

Benefits Of Using An External Ssd As A Scratch Disk:

Faster read and write speeds:

With an external SSD, you can experience significantly faster data transfer rates compared to traditional HDDs.

This translates into quicker loading times when accessing large Photoshop files, saving your valuable time and allowing for a smoother editing process.

Improved overall performance in Photoshop:

Utilizing an external SSD as a scratch disk can greatly enhance the overall performance of Photoshop.

By offloading temporary files and storing them on an SSD, you can free up valuable system resources, such as random access memory (RAM), which in turn improves the responsiveness of Photoshop.

Enhanced workflow efficiency:

The increased speed and performance of an external SSD can substantially enhance your workflow efficiency.

Tasks such as opening, saving, and exporting files are expedited, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of your work without unnecessary delays or interruptions.

Reduced lag and load times:

One of the main advantages of using an external SSD as a scratch disk is the significant reduction in lag and load times.

SSDs have faster seek times, meaning they can access data more quickly than HDDs. This results in a smoother editing experience with minimal waiting time for files to load.

Limitations Of Traditional Hdd As A Scratch Disk:

Slower read and write speeds:

Compared to SSDs, traditional HDDs have slower read and write speeds. This can lead to longer loading times and delays when working with large Photoshop files.

Waiting for files to open, save, or export can impact your productivity and interrupt your creative flow.

Increased risk of data loss:

HDDs are susceptible to data loss due to mechanical components and their fragility. The spinning disks and moving read/write heads can be damaged easily, potentially leading to the loss of valuable Photoshop files. SSDs, on the other hand, are more durable and less prone to physical failures.

Limited storage capacity:

Traditional HDDs generally offer larger storage capacities at a lower cost compared to SSDs. However, when serving as a scratch disk for Photoshop, the speed advantage of an SSD is crucial.

While SSDs typically have smaller storage capacities, you can choose an appropriate size based on your specific needs.

---

Using an external SSD as a scratch disk for Photoshop can significantly enhance your editing experience.

The faster read and write speeds, improved overall performance, and enhanced workflow efficiency make SSDs an excellent choice for professionals.

Additionally, SSDs alleviate the limitations of traditional HDDs, including slower speeds, higher risk of data loss, and limited storage capacity.

Upgrade your scratch disk to an external SSD today and unlock the true potential of Photoshop.

Factors To Consider When Selecting An External Ssd

When selecting an external SSD for use as a scratch disk in Photoshop, it is important to consider factors such as storage capacity, speed, compatibility, and durability.

These factors will ensure optimal performance and efficiency in handling large files and multitasking.

External SSDs can greatly enhance your Photoshop workflow by providing fast and reliable storage for scratch disk operations.

When selecting an external SSD for this purpose, there are several factors to consider to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. In this section, we will explore these factors in detail.

Capacity Requirements For Photoshop Projects:

• Evaluate the size and complexity of your typical Photoshop projects
• Consider the amount of storage space required for temporary files and cache
• Determine the maximum file size you may encounter and select a capacity accordingly
• Remember to leave some room for future projects and storage expansion

Read And Write Speeds:

• Look for an external SSD with high read and write speeds to minimize file transfer delays
• Faster speeds enable quicker access to data, resulting in faster operations within Photoshop
• Consider SSDs with sequential read/write speeds of at least 500MB/s for optimal performance

Importance Of Sustained Speeds For Photoshop Workflows:

• Sustained speeds refer to the ability of an SSD to maintain consistent performance over extended periods
• Photoshop work involves continuous read/write operations, making sustained speeds crucial for smooth operation
• Look for SSDs that maintain high performance even during intensive workloads to avoid potential bottlenecks

Interface Options (Usb 3.0, Thunderbolt, Etc.):

• USB 3.0 is a common and cost-effective option, providing sufficient speed for most users
• Thunderbolt offers even higher data transfer rates, reducing file transfer times significantly
• Consider your existing hardware and select an interface that is compatible and provides optimal speeds

Cost Considerations And Budget:

• Determine your budget and balance it with the performance requirements
• SSDs with larger capacities and faster speeds tend to be more expensive
• Compare prices and read reviews to find the best value for your specific needs

By considering these factors, you can select an external SSD that meets your Photoshop scratch disk requirements effectively.

Remember to choose a capacity that suits your projects, prioritize high read and write speeds, ensure good sustained speeds, select the appropriate interface, and balance cost considerations accordingly.

With the right external SSD, you can optimize your Photoshop workflow and experience faster, more seamless editing.

Formatting And Partitioning The Ssd

Learn how to efficiently use an external SSD as a scratch disk for Adobe Photoshop by formatting and partitioning it properly. Maximize your performance and storage capabilities with these simple steps.

Formatting The Ssd For Compatibility With Both Windows And Mac:

When it comes to using an external SSD as a scratch disk for Photoshop, one important consideration is to format the SSD in a way that ensures compatibility with both Windows and Mac operating systems.

Here are some options to achieve this:

FAT32 format:

One option is to format the SSD using the FAT32 file system. This format is compatible with both Windows and Mac, allowing you to seamlessly switch between the two operating systems.

However, FAT32 has some limitations, such as a maximum file size of 4GB and a maximum partition size of 2TB.

ExFAT format:

Another viable choice is formatting the SSD using the ExFAT file system. ExFAT offers better compatibility compared to FAT32, as it supports larger file sizes and partition sizes. This format is suitable for working with large Photoshop files on both Windows and Mac.

NTFS format: If you primarily use Windows and occasionally work on Mac, formatting the SSD as NTFS might be a suitable option.

NTFS is the default file system for Windows and offers robust features and security. However, note that Mac can read from NTFS but cannot write to it without third-party software.

Partitioning The Ssd For Optimal Scratch Disk Performance:

To maximize the performance of your external SSD as a scratch disk for Photoshop, it is advisable to partition it appropriately.

Here are some considerations:

Single partition:

One option is to create a single partition on the SSD to be utilized exclusively as a scratch disk. This approach ensures that the entire SSD storage is dedicated to Photoshop’s scratch space, maximizing performance.

Separate partition for scratch disk and other data:

Another approach is to create separate partitions on the SSD, allocating a specific partition exclusively for the scratch disk and keeping other data on separate partitions.

This can help isolate Photoshop’s scratch data and prevent it from affecting other files and applications on the SSD.

Partition size:

When partitioning the SSD, it is important to consider the size of each partition. Allocate sufficient space for the scratch disk partition, depending on your workflow and the size of the Photoshop files you typically work with.

---

By formatting the SSD for compatibility and partitioning it effectively, you can optimize its performance as a scratch disk for Photoshop.

Take into account your specific requirements and workflow to determine the most suitable formatting and partitioning options for your external SSD.

Configuring Photoshop To Use The External Ssd

Learn how to configure Photoshop to use an external SSD as a scratch disk, improving performance and freeing up space on your computer.

This step-by-step guide will help you optimize your workflow and maximize the potential of your external storage solution for Photoshop.

When it comes to speeding up your Photoshop workflow, configuring the software to use an external SSD as a scratch disk can make a significant difference.

The scratch disk is where Photoshop stores temporary project data, such as cache files and history states, that exceeds the available RAM.

By setting up your external SSD as the primary scratch disk, you can enhance the performance of Photoshop and reduce lagging or slow rendering.

Here’s how you can configure Photoshop to use the external SSD:

Accessing The Preferences Menu In Photoshop

• Launch Photoshop and open any project or create a new one.
• From the menu bar, navigate to the “Edit” menu.
• Click on “Preferences” and select “Performance” from the dropdown list.
• The Preferences dialog box will then appear, with the “Performance” tab selected.

Setting The External Ssd As The Primary Scratch Disk

• Within the “Performance” tab of the Preferences dialog box, you’ll find a section labeled “Scratch Disks.”
• Locate the external SSD in the list of available drives and ensure it is connected to your computer.
• Check the box next to the external SSD to designate it as the primary scratch disk.
• If desired, you can prioritize multiple scratch disks by rearranging them in the list. The topmost drive will be utilized first.

Adjusting Other Scratch Disk And Performance Settings In Photoshop

• In addition to setting the primary scratch disk, you can control other aspects of Photoshop’s performance.
• Lower down in the Preferences dialog box, you’ll find a section called “Memory Usage.”
• Here, you can allocate more RAM for Photoshop to utilize, which can further enhance performance.
• Move the slider towards the right to increase the RAM allocation.
• It’s important to strike a balance, as allocating too much RAM may slow down other applications running on your computer.
• Finally, click the “OK” button to save your changes and apply the new configuration.

By following these steps and configuring Photoshop to utilize your external SSD as the scratch disk, you can optimize the software’s performance and reduce the rendering time for your projects.

Keep in mind that it’s essential to have sufficient free space on the external SSD to accommodate the temporary files generated by Photoshop.

Remember to monitor the available storage on the drive regularly and clear it out if necessary.

Managing Storage Space On The External Ssd

Learn how to effectively manage storage space on your external SSD and optimize its usage as a scratch disk for Photoshop.

Discover techniques to maximize storage efficiency and enhance performance for your creative projects.

As photographers and graphic designers, we rely heavily on Adobe Photoshop for our creative endeavors.

However, working with large files and complex projects can quickly eat up our computer’s storage space. Luckily, using an external SSD as a scratch disk in Photoshop can help alleviate this issue.

But how can we efficiently manage storage space on the external SSD?

Let’s explore some practical tips to ensure smooth workflow and prevent any storage-related bottlenecks:

Monitoring Available Space On The Ssd

One of the essential aspects of managing storage space on your external SSD is keeping a close eye on the available space.

Here’s how you can effectively monitor and stay informed about the storage status:

• Regularly check the available storage space of your external SSD by viewing the drive’s properties or using third-party software designed for this purpose.
• Set up automated notifications or alerts to receive updates on the storage capacity of your SSD. This can help you take action immediately if you approach the limits.
• Develop a habit of monitoring the available space before starting any significant project, ensuring you have ample storage to accommodate your creative needs.

Clearing Temporary Files And Cache Regularly

To optimize storage on your external SSD, it’s crucial to clear out temporary files and cache regularly. These files accumulate over time and can take up a significant amount of storage space if left unattended.

Here are some methods to efficiently manage temporary data in Photoshop:

• Within Photoshop, navigate to the Preferences menu and select the “Media & Disk Cache” option. Here, you can specify a location for the cache files and set the size limit. Regularly clear the cache or adjust the settings to prevent excessive space consumption.
• Periodically delete temporary and backup files created during your editing sessions. These files can be safely removed if they are no longer needed.
• Utilize automated solutions or scripts that can clear temporary files and cache on a scheduled basis, giving you peace of mind and consistently freeing up storage space.

By actively monitoring and managing your external SSD’s storage space, you can ensure a seamless and efficient workflow on Photoshop.

With these tips, you can make the most out of your storage capacity and avoid any potential bottlenecks that might hamper your creative process.

Organizing Photoshop Projects And Files

Learn how to optimize your Photoshop workflow by using an external SSD as a scratch disk. This simple and effective solution helps you organize your projects and files, improving performance and productivity.

External SSDs are an excellent option for using as a scratch disk in Photoshop. Not only do they provide faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard drives, but they also offer more storage capacity.

However, to maximize the benefits of using an external SSD as a scratch disk in Photoshop, it is crucial to organize your projects and files effectively.

In this section, we will discuss how to create a logical file structure on your external SSD and use subfolders to categorize and manage your Photoshop projects.

Creating A Logical File Structure On Your External Ssd:

• Start by creating a dedicated folder on your external SSD for all your Photoshop projects. This folder will serve as the main directory to keep your files organized.
• Within this main folder, create subfolders for different types or themes of projects. For example, you can have separate subfolders for client work, personal projects, or specific genres of photography or design.
• Create additional subfolders within each project subfolder to further categorize your files. For instance, you can have subfolders for raw images, edited images, PSD files, or resources like fonts and templates.
• Consider adding a folder specifically for completed projects to store the final versions of your work. This way, you can easily access and showcase your finished projects without having to sift through numerous unfinished files.
• Use descriptive and clear folder names to easily identify the content within each subfolder. This will help you locate specific files quickly, especially when dealing with a large number of projects.

Organizing your Photoshop projects and files using subfolders:

• Group related files together in subfolders within each project folder. For example, if you are working on a website design project, create subfolders for images, CSS files, and HTML files.
• Utilize consistent naming conventions for your files to ensure uniformity and ease of identification. Include relevant information such as project name, version number, and date in the file names.
• Regularly review and clean up your files by deleting any unnecessary or outdated files. Performing regular housekeeping tasks will help prevent clutter and make it easier to locate and work with the files you need.
• Make use of color-coding options available in the file explorer or file management software to visually differentiate between different types or statuses of projects. This can be particularly useful when dealing with a high volume of projects simultaneously.
• Backup your entire external SSD regularly to avoid losing any work. Consider using a reliable cloud storage service or an additional external hard drive for backup purposes. This will provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

By creating a logical file structure on your external SSD and utilizing subfolders to categorize and manage your Photoshop projects, you can streamline your workflow, increase efficiency, and make it easier to locate and work with your files.

Take the time to set up an organized system that works best for you, and enjoy the benefits of a clean and structured digital workspace.

Backing Up Your External Ssd Data

External SSDs are a reliable solution for using scratch disks in Photoshop, providing fast data access and improved performance.

Take the extra step to back up your valuable data on your external SSD regularly to ensure you don’t lose any important files.

Importance Of Regular Backups For Data Security:

Backing up your external SSD data is crucial for ensuring the security and integrity of your valuable files.

By regularly backing up your data, you can safeguard against potential data loss due to various unforeseen events such as hardware failure, accidental deletion, or even theft.

It is essential to have a robust backup strategy in place to protect your important files and maintain peace of mind.

Recommended Backup Methods For External Ssds:

When it comes to backing up your external SSD data, there are several reliable methods to choose from.

These methods include:

Cloud storage:

Storing your backups in the cloud offers a convenient and secure option. With cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive, you can easily upload and access your files from anywhere.

Cloud storage provides redundancy and ensures that you have an off-site backup in case of physical damage or loss of your external SSD.

External hard drive:

An external hard drive is an excellent option for creating backups of your external SSD data. These drives offer ample storage capacity and can be easily connected to your computer.

Regularly copying your files to an external hard drive ensures that you have a local backup that is quickly accessible.

Additionally, you can disconnect the hard drive when not in use to protect it from potential malware or ransomware attacks.

---

Remember to choose a backup method that suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as storage capacity, accessibility, and security when deciding which method to employ. It is also advisable to use a combination of backup methods to provide an extra layer of protection for your data.

Regularly backing up your external SSD data is of utmost importance to safeguard against potential data loss.

By employing recommended backup methods such as cloud storage and external hard drives, you can ensure the security and accessibility of your valuable files.

Don’t take chances with your data; invest in a reliable backup strategy today.

Addressing Slow Performance Or Lag In Photoshop

Experience slow performance or lag while using Photoshop? Speed things up by utilizing an external SSD as a scratch disk. Boost your editing capabilities and enhance your workflow with this efficient solution.

Is your Photoshop running slow or experiencing lag? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this section, we’ll explore different strategies to address the performance issues or lag you may be facing in Photoshop.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to optimize your system settings, troubleshoot hardware or connectivity problems, and make the most of your external SSD as a scratch disk for Photoshop.

Checking For Software Updates In Photoshop And Ssd Firmware:

Keeping your software up to date is vital to ensure optimal performance in Photoshop.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Open Photoshop and navigate to the Help menu.
• Select “Updates” to check for any available software updates.
• Install any updates found to take advantage of bug fixes and performance enhancements.

Similarly, keeping your external SSD firmware updated can improve its stability and compatibility with Photoshop:

• Visit the manufacturer’s website for your SSD to find the latest firmware releases.
• Follow their instructions to update the firmware, ensuring you have backups of your data beforehand.

Optimizing System Settings For Photoshop:

Tweaking your system settings can significantly improve Photoshop’s performance.

Consider the following:

• Use the recommended minimum system requirements to run Photoshop smoothly.
• Adjust the performance preferences within Photoshop to allocate more resources to enhance its performance.
• Optimize your scratch disk settings to utilize your external SSD as the primary scratch disk for Photoshop.

Troubleshooting Hardware Issues Or Connectivity Problems:

Unexpected hardware issues or connectivity problems can also impact Photoshop’s performance.

Here’s what you can do:

Check the connection between your external SSD and your computer:

Ensure the cable is securely connected. Try using a different cable or port to rule out any hardware issues.

• Test your external SSD on another computer to determine if the issue lies with your computer or the SSD itself.
• If problems persist, reach out to the manufacturer for further assistance or consider seeking professional help.

By following these steps and addressing any software, system, or hardware-related issues, you can resolve the slow performance or lag you may experience in Photoshop.

Remember, properly utilizing your external SSD as a scratch disk can also significantly improve Photoshop’s overall performance.

Resolving Compatibility Issues With Photoshop Or Other Software

Resolve compatibility issues with Photoshop or any other software by using an external SSD as a scratch disk.

This allows for smoother performance and faster processing, enhancing your editing experience. Optimize your workflow and maximize your productivity with this simple solution.

If you’re experiencing compatibility issues with Photoshop or any other software when using an external SSD as a scratch disk, don’t worry! There are a few steps you can take to resolve these problems and ensure a smooth experience.

Follow the instructions below to troubleshoot any compatibility issues:

Updating Photoshop To The Latest Version

To begin, make sure you have the most recent version of Photoshop installed on your system. Updating the software can often address compatibility issues with external SSDs.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Open Photoshop.
• Go to the “Help” menu.
• Click on “Updates”.
• Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
• Once the update is complete, restart Photoshop and check if the compatibility issue persists.

Checking For Software Compatibility With The External Ssd

If updating Photoshop doesn’t resolve the issue, you should verify if your software is compatible with using an external SSD as a scratch disk. Some software may have specific requirements or limitations when it comes to storage devices.

Follow these steps to confirm compatibility:

• Visit the official website of the software you are using.
• Look for the system requirements or specifications section.
• Check if there are any specific mentions about using external SSDs as scratch disks.
• Ensure that the software is compatible with your particular external SSD model.
• If compatibility issues are mentioned, consider alternative solutions or reach out to the software vendor for further guidance.

Seeking Support From Adobe Or Other Software Vendors

If you’ve tried the above steps and are still facing compatibility issues, it’s time to seek support from Adobe or the relevant software vendors.

These companies have dedicated support teams that can assist you in resolving software-related problems.

Follow these steps to get the support you need:

• Visit the official website of the software vendor.
• Look for the support or contact section.
• Submit a support ticket or reach out via the provided contact methods.
• Explain the compatibility issue you are experiencing with the external SSD.
• Provide any relevant details, such as software version, external SSD model, and steps you have taken so far.

By following these steps, you can address compatibility issues with Photoshop or other software when using an external SSD as a scratch disk.

Remember to keep your software updated, check for compatibility requirements, and seek support if needed.

FAQ About How to Use External Ssd as Scratch Disk Photoshop

Conclusion

Utilizing an external SSD as a scratch disk in Photoshop can significantly enhance your editing experience.

The increased storage and faster read/write speeds of an SSD allow for smoother and more efficient performance when working with large and complex files.

By offloading the temporary data to the external SSD, you can free up your computer’s internal storage, preventing it from being overwhelmed and slowing down.

Additionally, the portability of external SSDs enables you to transfer your work seamlessly between different devices without compromising performance.

As you delve into the world of graphic design or photography, incorporating an external SSD as a dedicated scratch disk can be a game-changer, enabling you to work with ease and ensuring that your creative process remains unhindered.

So, why not harness the power of an external SSD and elevate your Photoshop workflow to new heights?

Bonus About The Topic: How to Use External Ssd as Scratch Disk Photoshop

Can I Use External Ssd As Scratch Disk Photoshop?

Yes, you can use an external SSD as a scratch disk for Photoshop.

The main advantage of using an external SSD is that it offers faster read and write speeds than traditional hard drives.

This means that when editing photos in Photoshop, the program will be able to access files more quickly and thus improve performance overall.

Additionally, if your system does not have enough internal storage available for a scratch disk, then connecting an external drive can help free up space while still providing you with the necessary performance boost.

However, do keep in mind that some older versions of Adobe Photoshop may not recognize or work well with certain types of external SSDs so make sure to double-check before making any purchases!

Why is My External Hard Drive Not Showing Up As Scratch Disk Photoshop Mac?

If your external hard drive is not showing up as a scratch disk in Photoshop on Mac, it could be due to several factors.

Can You Run Photoshop from an External Hard Drive?

Yes, you can run Photoshop from an external hard drive. To do this, you need to have the program installed on both your computer and the external hard drive.

Once the program is installed on both drives, you will need to make sure that all of your files are stored on the external hard drive as well so that they can be accessed by Photoshop when it is running off of the external.

This will allow you to make edits and save changes while working with files stored on both drives without having to move them around or worry about compatibility issues.

External Hard Drive Not Showing Up As Scratch Disk Photoshop

When a user attempts to use an external hard drive as a scratch disk for Photoshop, they may find that the drive is not showing up in their list of available disks.

If this happens, it could be due to several factors such as the file system being incompatible with Photoshop (exFAT and NTFS are the only supported formats), the driver not being installed properly, or even a faulty connection between the computer and hard drive.

To solve this issue, users should first check if their file system is compatible with Photoshop and then make sure their drivers are up-to-date before troubleshooting further.

Use External Hard Drive As Scratch Disk Photoshop Mac

Using an external hard drive as a scratch disk for Photoshop on Mac is a great way to boost the performance and speed of your computer.

An external hard drive allows you to store more information than what’s available in your internal storage, making it easier to access assets used in photo editing programs such as Adobe Photoshop.

This can significantly improve the performance of these applications, allowing you to open larger files faster and edit them with ease.

Additionally, using an external hard drive gives you the flexibility to back up important data quickly and easily – something that’s invaluable when working with precious memories or valuable work files.

Can I Use an External Hard Drive As a Scratch Disk Photoshop

Yes, you can use an external hard drive as a scratch disk for Photoshop. This is especially useful if your computer does not have enough internal storage to meet the needs of your Photoshop projects.

An external hard drive gives you more space and flexibility to work with larger images or multiple layers which require more RAM and storage than what may be available on a standard laptop or desktop computer.

Using an external hard drive also allows you to back up all of your data in case something happens to your main machine, giving you peace of mind that your creative projects are safe no matter what disaster strikes.

Can’t Change Scratch Disk Photoshop

If you are using Photoshop, it is important to know that the scratch disk cannot be changed once it has been set.

A scratch disk is a place on your hard drive where Photoshop can store temporary data while you are working with files.

This setting can be found in the ‘Preferences’ menu and should be set to an internal drive such as your main hard drive or an external SSD/Hard Drive if available.

Once this setting has been chosen, it cannot be changed without resetting all of your preferences back to default which will likely cause workflow disruptions.