🖥️ How to Install PrimeOS on a USB Drive and Run It Live (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’ve ever wanted to try Android OS on your PC or laptop without removing Windows or making permanent changes, the easiest way is by installing PrimeOS on a USB drive. With this method, you can boot directly into Android anytime by using the USB stick. And if you set it up as a persistent installation, all your files, apps, and settings will be saved right on the USB itself.

In this guide, I’ll show you step by step how to download PrimeOS, make a bootable USB, and run it live on your computer.

📌 What is PrimeOS?

PrimeOS is an Android-based operating system designed for PCs and laptops. Built on the Android-x86 project, it gives you the full power of Android in a desktop-like environment. Some of its key features include:

A Windows-style interface with taskbar, start menu, and windowed apps.
Keyboard and mouse support for easy navigation.
Pre-mapped gaming controls for popular titles like PUBG, COD Mobile, and Free Fire.
Flexibility to either dual-boot with Windows or simply run it from a USB drive.

When you run PrimeOS from a USB stick, you can take Android anywhere without altering your existing system.

🛠️ Requirements

Before we dive in, make sure you have the following ready:

A USB drive (at least 8GB, though 16GB or more is recommended).
A computer or laptop with USB boot support.
The latest PrimeOS ISO file.
Rufus software to create the bootable USB.
A reliable internet connection.

📥 Step 1: Download PrimeOS ISO File

Head over to the official PrimeOS website. Link at the end
Pick the right version for your system:
- PrimeOS Standard – good for most modern PCs.
- PrimeOS Classic – best for older hardware.
- PrimeOS Mainline – recommended for the latest devices.
Download the ISO file to your computer.

💽 Step 2: Download and Install Rufus

Rufus is a simple, free utility used to create bootable USB drives.

Visit rufus.ie and download the latest version.
Either install it or run the portable version—no setup needed.

⚡ Step 3: Create Bootable PrimeOS USB

Insert your USB drive into your computer.
Launch Rufus.
Under Device, select your USB stick.
In Boot selection, browse and choose the PrimeOS ISO you just downloaded.
Set the Partition scheme to:
- GPT for UEFI systems.
- MBR for Legacy BIOS systems.
Click Start and let Rufus create the bootable USB.
Once finished, your USB will be ready. (Note: this will erase all data on the drive.)

🚀 Step 4: Boot PrimeOS from USB

Restart your PC.
Enter the Boot Menu (keys vary by device—commonly F12, F9, Esc, or Del).
Choose your USB drive from the list.
The PrimeOS boot menu should now appear.

🔄 Step 5: Run PrimeOS in Live Mode

Select Live Mode to start PrimeOS without installing it.
The OS will load directly from your USB.
You can now use Android apps, browse the web, or even play games.

👉 Want to save changes? Choose the installation option on the USB drive to enable persistence, so your apps and settings remain stored.

🎮 Features You Can Try in Live USB Mode

Access the Google Play Store and install apps.
Enjoy Android games with built-in keyboard and mouse mapping.
Run apps in resizable desktop-style windows.
Easily switch between your regular Windows OS and PrimeOS whenever needed.

⚖️ Pros & Cons of Running PrimeOS on USB

✅ Pros

No need to install on your hard drive.
Portable—carry your Android OS anywhere.
Works alongside Windows without affecting it.
Persistence allows you to save your work.

❌ Cons

Performance may depend on USB speed.
Slower than a full hard-drive installation.
Requires a reboot every time you want to switch OS.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I install PrimeOS on an external hard drive instead of USB?
👉 Yes, the steps are exactly the same—just select your external HDD in Rufus.

Q2: Will this process affect my Windows installation?
👉 No, running PrimeOS in Live Mode won’t touch your existing Windows setup.

Q3: How much storage space does PrimeOS need?
👉 At least 8GB, but 16GB or more is recommended for smoother performance.

Q4: Is PrimeOS good for gaming from USB?
👉 Yes, but heavy games perform best on a USB 3.0 drive for faster read/write speeds.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Installing PrimeOS on a USB drive is a safe and flexible way to explore Android OS on your computer. It’s portable, doesn’t interfere with Windows, and lets you enjoy apps and games on a bigger screen.

Whether you’re testing apps, playing mobile games, or just curious about Android in a desktop setup, PrimeOS Live USB is a fantastic option.

👉 Give it a try—you’ll have your PC running Android in just a few minutes!