Is it possible to install and operate photo editing apps externally?

[AlaskaMoose]

I am trying to choose one out of two Mac Studios Max with the Max 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU chip, and 128GB RAM: One with a 1TB SSD ($3,699), and the other with a 2TB SSD ($4,099).

But first I would like to ask some questions as follows:
a. It is possible for me to install and operate photo editing apps on an a fast external SSD?
b. Are you aware of any drawbacks relating to performance speed, and so on?

The photo editing apps I use are DXO Photo Lab with the NIK software bundle, DXO Photo Raw, and to a lesser degree the latest version of Graphic Converter (Lemke Software). Also, now and then I perform minor or short-duration video edits.

 

[Bigwaff]

But first I would like to ask some questions as follows:
a. It is possible for me to install and operate photo editing apps on an a fast external SSD?
b. Are you aware of any drawbacks relating to performance speed, and so on?

A "fast" external SSD would be a Thunderbolt 4/5 external SSD. No drawbacks if TB 4/5 but make sure to use a well reviewed and tested external enclosure.

 

[!!!]

Apple places no restrictions on launching apps from external drives. In fact, you've been able to move apps over without issue for a long time. Some programs may not support this if they hard code paths.

According to their support website:

• The installer will suggest a default location (Program Files folder on PC, Applications folder on Mac) and indicate the space required and the space available. If you wish to install the Nik Collection in another location, click on Browse; a system dialog box will prompt you to create and/or select another volume. Click on Next to confirm.