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10 Best External Cd Dvd Drives 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9  score

ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive with 16x Writing Speed and USB 3.0 for Both Mac/PC Optical Drive BW-16D1X-U

Compatibility: Mac and PC systems
Read/Write Speed: 16x Blu-ray writing speed
Supported Formats: BDXL discs
Portability: 9.5 x 2.5 x 6.5 inches
Power Source: USB connection
Durability: solid build quality

Chosen by 1371 this week

External DVD Drive, USB C Superdrive for Apple USB 3.0 DVD Burner Reader for Mac, Portable CD +/-RW Drive External DVD Player for Laptop MacBook Windows 11 10 PC Linux OS

Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, Linux supported
Read/Write Speed: Read 24x CD, 8x DVD; Write 24x
Supported Formats: CD-R/RW, DVD+/-RW
Portability: Slim, lightweight, portable
Power Source: No external power, plug-and-play
Durability: Plastic, less durable if handled roughly
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive with 16x Writing Speed and USB 3.0 for Both Mac/PC Optical Drive BW-16D1X-U

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,371
Compatibility
Read/Write Speed
Durability

Most important from
2235 reviews

Compatibility
The ASUS BW-16D1X-U is perfect for archiving large amounts of data or video, delivering flawless performance with no compatibility issues.
Read/Write Speed
This drive offers fast and efficient CD ripping, significantly speeding up the process compared to other models.
Durability
The build quality is solid, and the drive operates quietly without heating issues, even during lengthy burn processes.

The ASUS BW-16D1X-U is a robust external Blu-ray drive designed to handle both Mac and PC systems. Its standout feature is the super-fast 16x Blu-ray writing speed, which is ideal for those needing quick and efficient data storage, supporting up to 128 GB using BDXL discs. Compatibility is excellent, covering a wide range of operating systems including various versions of Windows and Mac OS X, ensuring it works seamlessly with most modern computers.

The USB 3.0 interface provides a stable and speedy connection, crucial for efficient data transfer and minimal waiting time during operations. Additionally, the drive offers a cloud backup solution for Android devices, adding an extra layer of versatility. With Cyber Link Power2Go 8, users get a reliable disc-burning solution with optional encryption to protect sensitive data, offering peace of mind for privacy-conscious individuals.

The sleek, diamond-shaped design not only looks good but also adds to its durability, making it a stylish addition to your tech setup. Portability might be a slight drawback due to its relatively larger dimensions (9.5 x 2.5 x 6.5 inches) and weight (2.6 pounds), which could be a consideration for users needing a more compact solution. However, its solid build quality ensures it can withstand regular use without issues. The power source is typical for external drives, drawing power via the USB connection, so there's no need for an additional power adapter, which adds to its convenience. The ASUS BW-16D1X-U is a powerful and versatile external Blu-ray drive best suited for users who require high-speed data transfer, extensive compatibility, and reliable performance in a sleek and durable package.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,371
Compatibility
Read/Write Speed
Durability

Most important from
2235 reviews

Compatibility
The ASUS BW-16D1X-U is perfect for archiving large amounts of data or video, delivering flawless performance with no compatibility issues.
Read/Write Speed
This drive offers fast and efficient CD ripping, significantly speeding up the process compared to other models.
Durability
The build quality is solid, and the drive operates quietly without heating issues, even during lengthy burn processes.
#3

LG Electronics BP60NB10 Ultra Slim Portable Hybrid Drive UHD 4K/Blu-ray/DVD+/-RW Drive, USB 3.0 Compatible, PC Windows, Linux, Mac OS, with M-DISC support, Noise Reduction, Black

Rating
9.7
Compatibility
Read/Write Speed
Supported Formats

Most important from
736 reviews

Compatibility
The drive's ability to rip Blu-rays and handle dual-layer discs efficiently stands out, especially for Mac users.
Read/Write Speed
It reads and plays Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and audio CDs seamlessly, and burns data DVDs at impressive speeds.
Supported Formats
It reads and plays Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and audio CDs seamlessly, and burns data DVDs at impressive speeds.
Portability
The drive is very compact and attractive, making it a convenient choice for portability.

The LG Electronics BP60NB10 Ultra Slim Portable Hybrid Drive offers several attractive features for users looking for an external CD/DVD drive. It is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows (XP to 10), Mac OS, and Linux, making it a versatile choice for various users. The drive connects via USB 2.0, which is sufficient but not the fastest option available today, as USB 3.0 could offer better data transfer speeds. However, it's worth noting that the product description mentions USB 3.0 compatibility, which might be a point of confusion.

The read/write speed for optical storage is 6x, which is decent for everyday use but may not satisfy users looking for the fastest performance. The drive supports a variety of formats, including Blu-ray, DVD, and CD, as well as M-DISC, which is known for its long-lasting data storage capabilities. One of the standout features is the noise reduction technology, which ensures quieter operation during disc playback, and the drive's ability to smooth out playback of damaged discs is a plus for users with older or scratched media.

Portability is another strong point, with the drive being ultra-slim and lightweight at just 9.6 ounces, making it easy to carry around. The power source is USB, meaning it doesn't require an additional power adapter, adding to its convenience. In terms of durability, the product seems reliable, but the use of USB 2.0 might feel a bit outdated for some. This drive is a solid choice for users needing a portable and versatile external drive with good compatibility and noise reduction features, though those seeking the latest technology might find the USB 2.0 interface a bit limiting.

Rating
9.7
Compatibility
Read/Write Speed
Supported Formats

Most important from
736 reviews

Compatibility
The drive's ability to rip Blu-rays and handle dual-layer discs efficiently stands out, especially for Mac users.
Read/Write Speed
It reads and plays Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and audio CDs seamlessly, and burns data DVDs at impressive speeds.
Supported Formats
It reads and plays Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and audio CDs seamlessly, and burns data DVDs at impressive speeds.
Portability
The drive is very compact and attractive, making it a convenient choice for portability.

Buying Guide for the Best External Cd Dvd Drives

When choosing an external CD/DVD drive, it's important to consider your specific needs and how you plan to use the device. External drives can be used for a variety of purposes, such as playing media, installing software, or backing up data. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure that the drive you choose meets your requirements.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the external CD/DVD drive can work with your computer's operating system and hardware. This is important because not all drives are compatible with all systems. Most modern drives are compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, but it's always good to check. If you use a less common operating system, make sure the drive supports it. Additionally, check if the drive connects via USB 2.0, USB 3.0, or USB-C, and ensure your computer has the appropriate ports.
Read/Write SpeedRead/write speed indicates how quickly the drive can read data from or write data to a CD or DVD. This is important for efficiency, especially if you plan to burn a lot of discs or transfer large amounts of data. Speeds are usually measured in multiples of the base speed (e.g., 8x, 16x). Higher speeds mean faster performance. For casual use, a lower speed may be sufficient, but for frequent or professional use, a higher speed is preferable.
Supported FormatsSupported formats refer to the types of discs the drive can read and write. Common formats include CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW. This is important because you need to ensure the drive can handle the types of discs you plan to use. If you only need to read or write standard CDs and DVDs, a basic drive will suffice. However, if you need to work with dual-layer DVDs or Blu-ray discs, look for a drive that supports these formats.
PortabilityPortability refers to the size and weight of the external CD/DVD drive. This is important if you plan to carry the drive with you or use it with multiple devices. Smaller, lighter drives are easier to transport and take up less space. If you need a drive for occasional use at home, portability may not be as crucial. However, for frequent travelers or those who need to use the drive in different locations, a compact and lightweight model is ideal.
Power SourceThe power source for an external CD/DVD drive can be either through a USB connection or an external power adapter. This is important because it affects the convenience and portability of the drive. USB-powered drives are more portable and easier to use on the go, as they don't require an additional power source. However, they may have lower performance compared to externally powered drives. If you need a drive for high-performance tasks, consider one with an external power adapter.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the external CD/DVD drive can withstand wear and tear. This is important for ensuring the longevity of the device, especially if you plan to use it frequently or transport it often. Look for drives with sturdy construction and good build quality. Some models may also offer additional features like shock resistance or protective casings. If you need a drive for occasional use, durability may be less of a concern, but for regular use, a more durable model is advisable.

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