Investing in the best external optical drive is a great way to enjoy your favorite movies or music without taking up space on your PC. They’re usually very slim and compact, so they fit very well with your smaller PCs, and they’re easy to take with you when you travel. They’re also one of the more cost-effective things you can buy to enhance your PC.
- External Optical Drive For Mac Os X
- External Optical Drive For Mac Mini
- External Optical Drive For Laptop
- External Disc Drive For Mac
- External Optical Drive For Mac Blu Ray
- External Optical Drive Windows 10
- The older Macs that came with internal DVD drives do not recognize external DVD drives, but if the internal fails a small edit in one tiny system file will force the Mac to recognize an external DVD/CD drive. A more extensive description is here h.
- An external optical drive is an imperative item for those goofballs who forgot to buy a computer, laptop or Mac book without an internal DVD drive. Most of you already know what an external optical drive entails, it lets you use DVDs, CD, and Blu-rays on your device. It can read and write data on.
Shop for optical drives for your computer at Best Buy. Choose from a great selection of internal and external drives and CD/DVD duplicators. External DVD Drives. External Blu-ray Drives. Optical Drive Location. External External (15) Internal Internal (1) Optical Drive Type.
With the multitude of brands and styles available, this can make it seem very hard to pick out a good external optical drive, but we did the research for you. Our 10 best optical drive reviews let you quickly compare various options and brands side-by-side, and our buying guide will give you criteria you want to keep in mind when you’re shopping.
Best External Optical Drive Buyer’s Guide
Although it can seem overwhelming at first, you can really narrow your choices down quickly when you realize that there are only three main formats and two connectivity options for these external optical drives. Knowing this helps you cut out a lot of research because you’ll only have to focus on the external drives that fit your selected categories.
Three Major External Optical Drive Formats
- Blu-Ray. Blu-Ray is slightly newer than the other two formats, but people are switching to them because of the crystal-clear graphics and sound quality. They can hold up to 128Gb and more per disk, and they’re popular for HD movies, games, and storage.
- CD-ROM. This is one of the older external optical drives available, and it’s suitable for smaller data transfers and audio formats. Generally, they go up to sizes around 700MB and no higher.
- DVD ROM. The DVD-ROM external optical drives are one of the most popular choices to work with PCs today. They typically have anywhere from 4.7GB to 8.5GB of storage space, and this is usually more than enough for applications and games to run seamlessly. The movie industry favors dual-layer DVDs or DVDs with 8.5GB of storage.
Important External Optical Drive Considerations
Now that you know about the three different optical drive formats you can choose from, we’ll outline some important specifications that you want to keep in mind when you’re shopping.
Capacity
You have to take your external optical drive’s capacity into consideration. This means that you’ll have to think about what you want to store and how much of it you have. Pictures take up less space than videos, and audio files take up even less space. If you plan to store games, you want something with more space capacity.
Connectivity
Does your device come with a USB cord and adapter included or do you have to buy one? Does it connect with one USB cable or two? If it connects with two, do you have two side-by-side on your PC? These are all good questions to ask when you’re shopping for the best external optical drive for you. It’ll help you determine if you can connect the device or not to your preferred PC.
Speed
Your PC’s operating speed and your external optical drive’s speed will determine how fast you can load, transfer, and save your files from one device to the other. USB 3.0 is now standard on several brands of external optical drives, and this offers a more stable connectivity and faster speeds than the USB 2.0.
User-Friendly
Finally, you want to pick out a device that is simple to use. Many external optical drives now have plug-and-play technology that automatically syncs up to your computer when you plug it in. This can reduce the time you spend setting it up, and you can get on to enjoying your DVDs or CDs quicker.
10 Best External Optical Drive Reviews
ROOFULL External DVD Drive USB
This external optical drive features plug and play technology, and you can just plug it into your tablet or PC’s USB port. It is compatible with a variety of operating systems including Windows XP, 2003, Vista, 7, 8.1, 10, Linux, and Mac 10.10.4.
The high-speed USB 3.0 drive is very sleek and powerful, so you can use it without worrying about it interfering with your computer’s speed. It comes with a one-year warranty against damage or defects. You also get a very slim and compact design that makes this device easy to carry and take with you.
Pros
- Features user-friendly plug and play technology
- Very sleek and compact design
Chrome browser for mac. Cons
- May start to develop problems within a few months
- Eject button is difficult to push in
VersionTech USB3.0 Ultra Slim External DVD Drive
This drive gives you universal connectivity, and it works with PC, laptops, tablets, and more. You can use it with several operating systems from Windows Vista up to Windows 10, and all of the Mac systems without a problem.
It has a 3.0 USB transfer speed for a smooth and continuous playback, and it comes with durable copper mesh technology. It’s designed to run very quietly, and the outer shell is resistant to damage. It’s lightweight and slim, and this makes it a good choice to slip into your bag and take with you.
External Optical Drive For Mac Os X
Pros
- Comes with fast 3.0 USB capabilities
- Very sleek and slim design
Cons
- Eject button may stick
- Could display an error message with certain DVDs
Sea Tech Aluminum External USB DVD
You can buy just the device or you can choose to have expert installation for an additional fee. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, and you can use it on several different devices for a fast and clear playback.
The outer casing is made out of lightweight but durable aluminum, and this ensures that your drive lasts through repeated use without a problem. You can use it to write both DVDs and CDs, and it plays both as well. It also comes with a one-year warranty against defects or damage.
Pros
- Outer casing is made with aluminum
- Compatible with several Windows and Mac devices
Cons
- Connector cable may short out and switch the device off
- Difficult to get up and running for the first use
ASUS ZenDrive Ultra Slim Mac Compatible External DVD Optical Drive
You get the choice of the ZenDrive Ultra or the ZenDrive Ultra + Type C. It will work with Windows and Mac devices, and it has an ultra slim and lightweight design that perfectly compliments your lightweight laptop.
It is designed to protect your memories for years, and it comes with Nero Backup to backup Android devices as well. You get bundled software included that makes burning discs a quick and easy process. It also comes with a secure online backup feature for all of your photographs.
Pros
- Comes with bundled software and storage capabilities
- Protects your pictures for years
Cons
- Need two USB ports close together to use it
- Connection cord is very short and difficult to connect to two USB ports
Pt. GoDi External DVD Drive
This drive is very user-friendly, and you simply plug it into your computer or device’s 3.0 USB port and the device will recognize it. This 3.0 USB port gives you a more stable and high-speed performance each time you use this drive.
You get error-correcting technology, anti-shock technology, and noise reduction technology for a safe and quick run. This device is compatible with several Windows operating systems, along with Mac and Linux. It also comes with a year-long hassle-free warranty so you can return it if it fails or if it gets damaged.
Pros
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices
- Comes with error-correcting technology and noise reduction technology
Cons
- Might take a while to get set up
- Slightly larger design than other options
Tengertang USB-C Super External Drive
This device will work with desktops, laptops, and Mac devices. You don’t need any additional adapters, and it plugs straight into your device’s USB port. It lets your burn CDs and DVDs as well as listen to music and watch videos.
The Tengerstang External Drive features a very lightweight and slim design that makes it quick and easy to pack up and slip into your bag to take with you. It also comes with a USB adapter included so you won’t have to worry about buying or finding an adapter cord. The outer case is solid to protect the hardware.
Pros
- Device has a very sturdy and solid feel
- Comes with a USB adapter cord included
Cons
- Might take a while for the computer to recognize the device
- Can be difficult to eject discs once they’re in
External Optical Drive For Mac Mini
Gipow External CD Drive
This ultra slim and lightweight drive comes with shock resistance, and this means that you’ll get a smooth playback experience even when you’re on the go. It’s very easy to slip into your bag and take with you. This drive also features a sleek and modern design.
It comes equipped with a high-speed interface that makes this a powerful device that offers a stable connection. The Gipow External CD Drive has universal compatibility so that you can use it with Linux, Windows, and Mac systems. It consumes a very small amount of power with every use, so it’s energy efficient.
Pros
![Macbook Macbook](https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1spJsKgmTBuNjy1Xbq6yMrVXaV/Deepfox-Bluray-Player-External-Optical-Drive-USB-3-0-Blu-ray-BD-ROM-CD-DVD-RW.jpg)
- Very compact and energy-efficient design
- Comes with anti-shock and error correcting technology
Cons
- May have problems recognizing blank disks
- Can run slower and slow down your PC’s performance time
Apple USB Superdrive
You can use this drive to quickly burn CDs and DVDs, install software, backup your files, listen to music, or watch a movie. It features a very slim and compact design that makes it easy to pop into your carrying case and take with you or set on a desk.
It connects to your Apple devices quickly and easy. The MacBook Pro connects with Retina display, MacBook Air, iMac, or Mac mini connect with a single USB cable. It also doesn’t use a separate power adapter, and it can run when your Mac is plugged in or running on its batteries.
Pros
- Connects through a single built-in USB cable
- Can work with the Mac plugged in or running on its battery
Cons
- May not get a true Apple product when you order
- May get stuck in a loop with blank CDs or DVDs
Pemenol External DVD Drive
This user-friendly device features plug and play technology that is very fast and easy to use. Your device will automatically recognize the drive and prompt you to open it when you plug it in. The Pemenol External DVD Drive has universal compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices.
It has buffer run protection technology built-in, and the 3.0 USB runs up to 10 times faster than a 2.0 USB connection. It comes with a soft storage bag that can help protect your device from damage. The drive uses copper mesh technology for a durable and long-lasting drive.
- Comes with a soft-sided and padded storage case
- Uses copper mesh technology for added durability
Cons
- May take a while to read discs
- Might skip and show error messages with older discs
External Optical Drive For Laptop
HP External Ultra-Slim Multi Format DVD/CD Writer
This drive allows you to quickly and easily burn single layer or double layer DVDs and DVD-RAMs. It features a very straightforward and user-friendly design, and it connects to your PC quickly and easily for automatic startup and run time.
External Disc Drive For Mac
The drive is very slim and lightweight, and this makes it fast and easy to take with you when you travel. It has read and write speeds up to eight times faster for DVDs, and up to 24 times faster for CDs. It doesn’t require any additional software installation to run.
Pros
- Has a very user-friendly interface
- Can read and write CDs and DVDs quickly and easily
Cons
- Eject button is prone to sticking
- USB cable is very short are hardwired into the device
Choosing an external optical drive doesn’t have to be a difficult process. We outlined the important criteria in our buyer’s guide, and our roundup of the top 10 best external optical drives let you compare several brands and styles side-by-side. You should be able to find one that suits your needs quickly and without any problems.
With a huge increase in the trend of making personal computer thinner and thinner, most of the companies nowadays are eliminating one of the most important functions of the computer, and that is none other that the CD/DVD drive itself! Now, the CD/DVD drives are not that thin, as compared to the computer itself and hence, they do not fit in the computer. So, to solve this problem, the best alternative is to buy an external DVD burner for your Mac or Windows PC. But wait, there are way too many external DVD burner or USB DVD burner out there in the market. So, which is the best DVD burner that you should buy? Don't worry, we have listed the top 10 best external DVD burner for Mac as well as for Windows.
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Part 1. Top 5 Best External DVD Burner for Mac
#1. The USB Super Drive by Apple
If you are using a Mac, then chances are that you will most of the accessories made by Apple and the USB Super Drive is one of those accessories that is manufactured by Apple. With an incredible design and thin look, this USB Super Drive will never disappoint you. Like the Mac, this USB Super Drive has an aluminium body and will look like it is a part of the Mac. But like all other Apple devices, this will not come at a cheap price. If you buy it, then this device will add to the beauty of the Mac. Also, if you want something that matches the design of the Mac, then this currently the only option.
Price: $79
#2. The Ultra Slim Portable Drive by LG
External Optical Drive For Mac Blu Ray
If you do not want to spend a lot of money behind a DVD drive, then this Ultra Slim portable Drive by LG is the best option for you. This Drive has excellent looks and most importantly, this drive supports M-Discs. M-Discs are nothing but a most durable Disc which lasts way longer than the traditional Discs that we use. So, for those who transfer really important data and cannot change their Discs much, then they can buy an M-Disc and use this drive to use the M-Disc. Remember, not all the DVD drives support M-Disc.
Price: $33
External Optical Drive Windows 10
#3. The Ultra Slim DVD Drive by Samsung
This Drive is probably the best substitute for the LG's Ultra Slim Drive. This is also slimmer the LG's DVD Drive and looks excellent. Amazingly, even after being a DVD Drive, this device is only 14mm thick! This DVD drive is the slimmest DVD Drive currently available in the market. But if you are thinking that is drive must be expensive, then you are wrong! This DVD Drive is even cheaper than the LG's DVD Drive.
Price: $25
#4. Slim External Drive by Asus
This DVD drive is a bit different that the others mentioned here. All the other DVD drive has slots in them where you can enter the Disc, kind of like a SIM Card Slot. But this DVD Drive has a Disc Tray where you can put the Disc, and then press the button on the Drive to insert the Disc in the Drive. If you are a fan of this function, then you should definitely buy this Drive but be advised that this DVD Drive is a bit thicker than the other Drives mentioned here.
Price: $33
#5. The Slim Blu Ray Drive by Samsung
If you use a lot of Blu Ray Discs, then this Slim Blu Ray Drive by Samsung is the best option and the biggest advantage of this Drive is that it supports Blu Ray Discs. But don't think that you can get this Drive at a cheap price. Since it supports Blu Ray Discs, it costs similar to the Apple's Super Drive. Also, one of the most amazing features of this DVD Drive is that it consumes a lot less power than the other DVD Drives.
Price: $79
Part 2. Top 5 Best External DVD Burner for Windows
#1. The Smasung Slim External DVD Drive
This DVD Drive is one of the most fastest DVD Drives currently available in the market and moreover, this DVD Drive supports Blu Ray! This has a USB 2.0 interface and also has a Disc Tray and is only 12.7 mm thick. This device is very slim and very attractive.
Price: $79
#2. The Asus External DVD Drive
This DVD Drive is one the most newest DVD drive available in the market and is extremely fast. This DVD Drive also supports Blu Ray and is very much beautiful. If you are looking for something slim and beautiful, then this might be the device that you should buy. This DVD Drive has very high quality and fast burning speed.
Price: $65
#3. The LG Super Multi Drive
This DVD Drive has a unique curved design and is very beautiful. This is very compact and weighs only 380 grams. This DVD Drive is also consumes a lot less power than the other drives and has a USB 2.0 interface.
Price: $24
#4. The Samsung External DVD Drive
This DVD Drive is an excellent looking device and has the latest USB interface, that is USB 3.0. This drive also has Disc Tray and has an incredible design. This drive is also extremely thin, only 14mm and is very lightweight.
Price: $25
#5. The Dell External DVD Drive
This DVD Drive is very easy to use and is fairly slim and good looking. It is only 14mm this and weighs around 200 grams. This Drive comes pre loaded with the Cyber Link Media Player and uses very less power.
Price: $30