Mac mini - how to boot off a USB?

[jave808]

Hi everyone
Just picked up a 2014 Mac Mini the other day. This one is actually working this time!!! (Unlike the 2009 iMac).

Specs are i5 CPU, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD and OSX installed.

I would however like to try and install a flavour of Linux onto it. BUT when I insert the USB with said Linux image and reboot, then hold down the Alt key, I can't see any option for the USB - only 2 HDD icons - one titled "Macintosh HD" and the other "Mac OS 10.14.x recovery"

How can I boot of a USB?

 

[Juicy Box]

Are you sure the USB drive with Linux works?

Try a different drive.

 

[jave808]

Yes, that 16GB USB stick has Linux Mint installed onto it and it has worked with other PCs

BUT I did try another drive (8GB stick) and am now installing Manjaro. Thank you!!