have you successfully used ceramic tile for outdoor patio? My concern is will the color fade?

No the color will not fade.

Yes they are brittle and are easily damaged especially if you ever have snow that must be removed or if anyone drops something heavy on them (like a rock, a brick, a planter, a BBQ grill or propane tank, etc).

Make sure that your substrate (backing) is solid - I recommend a 3 to 4 inch thick concrete slab (with wire reinforcing if you live in an area with much of a winter).

Not ceramic, but we have porcelain tiles on our outdoor decks which are cantilevered out & away from the house, one on the 1st floor and the other on the 2nd floor. Porcelain is a little bit more expensive, but you can find it sometimes at tile centers on sale. If you crack porcelain the color runs all the way through, unlike tile that will show white underneath. Also, porcelain is less likely to crack in the weather conditions.

I would not recommend slate for the above reasons as well.

I checked with numerous tile distributors and installers before deciding against ceramic and for porcelain. It's beautiful and we love it!

I have ceramic tile on my back steps,after 4 years they are the original color. So easy to care for and looks good too!

it probably doesnt at least it doesnt if you use the right tile