Top 26 External Optical Drives for Easy Data Access and Media Playback

Welcome to our external optical drive roundup, an in-depth look at some of the top performers in the market. We’ve handpicked the finest external optical drives to suit a wide range of needs, from high-speed data transfers to gaming and entertainment. Dive in, and we’re sure you’ll find the perfect fit for your needs.

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Reviews

USB External DVD-RW Drive for Mac and PC - Portable Optical Media Burner

This external DVD writer is a reliable and convenient solution for all your DVD-related needs. With its sleek, compact design, it’s easy to carry and compatible with any computer or laptop with a USB port. Ideal for students, professionals, or entertainment enthusiasts, this USB DVD-RW Writer seamlessly integrates with your existing setup and offers fast, reliable data transfer. Enjoy the benefits of having an external DVD writer at your fingertips with this must-have accessory.

HP External USB DVD-RW Drive

Experience the convenience of the HP External USB DVD/RW Drive, designed for seamless connectivity with your HP Elite notebook series. This versatile drive provides straightforward read/write access to optical media, allowing you to back up data, enjoy multimedia, and access CDs and DVDs with ease. Its sleek, compact design ensures a tidy workspace, while its USB-powered functionality ensures portability and compatibility with USB 2.0 or 3.0 ports. Take your media with you wherever you go.

OWC Slim Portable External DVD/CD Burner

Experience the ultimate portability with OWC’s Slim External DVD/CD Burner. Perfect to use with both Macs and PCs, this device boasts a USB 3.0 interface for seamless convenience wherever you go. It offers exceptional performance with up to 24x speed for CDs and 8x for DVDs, and supports M-DISC media for extended life and superior reliability. Compact and easy to carry, this slim burner makes it perfect for schools, offices, and personal use.

Ultra-Fast Portable CD/DVD Drive for Laptop & Desktop - 3.0 USB

The Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 is a slim and portable solution for those with laptops or desktops lacking an internal CD or DVD drive. Easy to use with a plug-and-play design, this device connects via USB, offering data transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps and compatibility with various operating systems. The sleek and durable design make it perfect for travel or everyday use, with its multifunctional optical drive and pop-up button and disc tray for simple operation.

LG Portable Blu-ray / DVD Writer - Slim and Black

Experience the convenience of easily reading and burning DVDs and Blu-ray discs with this portable LG device. Its BDXL format supports up to 100GB write-once Blu-ray discs, making it perfect for users who need extra storage space. The sleek, compact design allows for easy transportation, and the device is compatible with most standard television sets, functioning as a DVD player. Additionally, it supports M-DISC technology, providing media that outlasts standard DVDs. With a USB 2.0 interface and speeds of up to 6x, this external Blu-ray drive provides a smooth and efficient experience.

Asus External Dual-Layer Disc Drive with Disc Encryption and USB 2.0 Interface

This sleek and stylish Asus Slim Dual-Layer External DVD RW Drive offers enhanced data protection and disc encryption with its password-controlled and hidden-file functionality. With its user-friendly drag-and-burn interface, you can accomplish entire disc-burning tasks in just three easy steps. Enjoy the harmony of technology and aesthetics with this elegant and portable drive, compatible with both Mac and PC platforms.

ASUS External Blu-Ray Writer with USB 3.0 and M-Disc Technology

Experience the magic of Blu-ray with the ASUS BW-16D1H-U Pro External Blu-ray Burner. Boasting a sleek diamond-look design, this device delivers extreme writing speeds, making data backup a breeze. Its M-Disc technology ensures long-lasting storage, and Disc Encryption II offers double protection for your files. The Power-Back-up automatically schedules backups and provides unique archiving capabilities. Get ready for an eye-popping Blu-ray 3D experience, breathtaking surround sound with Dolby Digital and DTS HD, and a seamless transition from 2D to 3D content. This versatile device is a perfect addition to any multimedia setup.

Asus USB Blu-ray Writer External Drive with 3D Conversion

The Asus 06D2X-U is an external 6x Blu-ray writer that delivers high-quality performance, thanks to its Auto Tuning Power technology, ensuring an optimal power supply for disc burning. Protecting important data, the device features Disc Encryption II with password-control functions for double security. BDXL format support allows for larger amounts of data to be stored on a single Blu-ray disc. Its drag-and-burn friendly interface makes it easy to burn discs in just three steps, and the 2D to 3D DVD conversion feature enhances the video experience. The USB 2.0 connection combined with support for various operating systems makes this drive a great choice for Blu-ray enthusiasts.

LG WP50NB40 Blu-ray Writer: Stylish and Powerful Blu-ray Writer for Enhanced Video Experience

Experience the ultimate in high-quality video storage with the LG WP50NB40 Blu-ray Writer. With its remarkable backup capacity, you can securely store all your precious memories, data, and favorite movies, without worrying about running out of space. Its sleek and stylish design complements any computer setup, and the USB 2.0 interface ensures lightning-fast data transfer speeds. This Blu-ray writer also supports double-layer media, doubling your storage capacity for even the largest files. Say goodbye to the hassle of buying external drives and embrace the peace of mind that comes with the LG WP50NB40 Blu-ray Writer.

LG BP60NB10 Ultra Slim Portable External Blu-ray/DVD Writer - M-DISC Support and Jamless Play

Experience premium home entertainment with LG BP60NB10, the ultra-slim portable Blu-ray/DVD writer. It features USB 2.0 connectivity, M-DISC support, and fast burn speeds to capture your favorite movies or documents on BDXL discs. Enjoy noise reduction during playback and seamless disc reading with the help of Silent Play technology. This LG device is a versatile tool with multimedia capabilities, making it a must-have for all your digital needs.

Pioneer Silver External Blu-ray Drive for USB Type-C and 2.0 Ports

Enhance your multimedia experience with the Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive, sporting a sophisticated, silver color that effortlessly matches your PC. The compact, ultra-lightweight design, weighing just 230g (around 0.51lb), is as practical as it is stunning, fitting easily into a CD case. Its clamshell-style body enables simple disc insertion and removal even in narrow spaces. For seamless connectivity, a reversible L-shaped USB Type-C cable is provided, allowing flexible cable placement for your convenience. PureRead 3+ with intelligent algorithms optimizes audio CD reading, reducing errors caused by scratches or fingerprints, while still meeting the USB 3.2 Gen1 standard for fast data transfer and secure power supply. A must-have for music aficionados and tech enthusiasts alike.

HP External CD Drive for Optical Media

Experience the ultimate convenience and versatility with the HP USB External DVDRW Drive. Designed with a sleek and modern look, this external DVD drive seamlessly integrates with Windows and Mac operating systems, providing easy connectivity through USB 2.0. Suitable for both home and office use, it features powerful read and write capabilities, supporting CD, DVD±R, DVD±RW formats. Its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for professionals and frequent travelers. Say goodbye to limitations and enjoy the freedom of optical disc compatibility with this reliable and high-performing external DVD drive.

NOLYTH Portable External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop and Mac

Meet NOLYTH, the versatile external CD DVD drive, designed for seamless compatibility with various devices. Simply plug it in and let it do the magic, while matching the sleek design of your MacBook/Mac/Laptop. NOLYTH supports strong read and write activities for CDs and DVDs, ensuring optimal functionality. Travel-friendly with its compact design, it’s perfect for both work and play.

ORIGBELIE External CD Drive with USB 3.0 for Laptop/PC

Bring your computing experience to the next level with the ORIGBELIE External DVD Drive, a versatile and portable USB 3.0 CD burner and DVD drive. Perfect for both laptops and desktops, this 2-in-1 solution satisfies all your optical drive needs, making it an ideal companion for your computing adventures.

Asus External DVD-Writer for Retail Use

Slide this sleek, black DVD-writer onto your desktop for a hassle-free disc-burning experience. With enhanced data protection, this Asus External Cd Drive lets you effortlessly complete disc burning in just three easy steps and Disc Encryption ensures a secure backup. Compatible with Windows 7, the slim and trim design adds elegance to your computer setup.

Gotega Portable External CD/DVD Drive

The Gotega external DVD drive is a sleek and portable addition to any laptop, offering a wide array of compatibility with Windows and Linux systems. With a writing and reading speed of up to 8 times the standard, this USB 3.0-powered drive has a maximum DVD reading speed of 8 times and a DVD burning speed of 8 times. Featuring a brushed texture shell made of ABS plastic, the lightweight yet sturdy design makes it perfect for portability and easy use. Take your gaming and movie experience to the next level with this high-speed, convenient CD/DVD drive.

LG GP65NB60 Portable External DVD Burner and Drive - Black

The LG GP65NB60 Portable USB External DVD Burner and Drive is a sleek, compact device that offers a seamless and user-friendly experience. With its USB 2.0 interface and powerful 8x DVD-Max writing speed, you can burn more discs in less time, making it perfect for those who need to transfer files quickly. The drive’s Silent Play technology takes audio and visual enjoyment to the next level by adjusting read speeds to reduce noise during playback. Additionally, it can connect to TVs for an enhanced movie experience. The LG GP65NB60 is equipped with various features, including Jamless Play for continuous video enjoyment and support for M-Disc media, providing protection against data loss through the use of a patented rock-like recording surface instead of organic dye.

Dell External USB Optical Drive for DVD and CD Burning and Playing

Experience exceptional performance with the Dell DW316 External USB Optical Drive. Its sleek, black design makes it easy to use while on the go or at home. It’s a plug and play solution that supports a variety of disc types and can be used with multiple Dell devices, making it a versatile choice for all your disc needs.

Archgon External USB 3.0 UHD 4K Blu-ray Writer: Premium Aluminum Drive for PC & Mac

Enjoy stunning 4K UHD movies with Archgon’s Premium External Blu-Ray Writer Super Drive. This sleek, aluminum-clad device boasts a powerful HLDS BU40N drive, capable of reading UHD Blu-Ray discs and the latest BD-XL burning technology. With support for 3D content, it also handles regular Blu-Ray, DVD, and CD discs. The drive is compatible with both PC and Mac, making it a versatile choice for movie enthusiasts.

Asus BW-16D1X-U Ultra-Fast External Blu-ray Drive

Introducing the sleek and powerful Asus BW-16D1X-U Blu-ray Drive, designed to make your movie-watching experience a breeze. This external drive offers maximum writing speeds of 16x for BD-R, 16x for DVD-R/+R, and 40x for CD-R, ensuring quick and efficient data transfer. With its USB 3.0 connectivity, you can enjoy fast and reliable disc burning, as well as the convenience of BDXL support for enhanced storage capabilities. The included intuitive BD Suite software simplifies the disc-burning process and even offers optional encryption for added security. This versatile and reliable drive is an excellent choice for any home or office setting, perfect for playing and burning Blu-ray discs with ease.

Pioneer BDR-XD08UMB-S USB 3.2 Gen1 Portable BD/DVD/CD Writer with High-Grade Rubber Coating

This Pioneer BDR-XD08UMB-S is a high-quality external Blu-ray drive that’s portable, sleek, and scratch-resistant. Boasting USB 3.2 Gen1 compatibility, it offers fast data transfer with a stable power supply. Its clamshell type design makes it ultra-lightweight at 230g, while its cutting-edge features include PureRead 4+ for accurate CD reading and M-DISC support for long-term data protection. With an included Type-C conversion cable and compatibility with Windows 11 and macOS Monterey, this drive is a top choice for any user.

Dell External USB DVD±RW/CD-RW Drive in Black

Experience seamless media burning with this compact Dell USB DVD/RW drive. Plug it in and enjoy the convenience of playing and burning discs, or installing new software on your computer. With its sleek design and compatibility with various Dell devices, this USB DVD/RW drive is perfect for use at home or on the go. The included USB cable ensures hassle-free operation directly from your computer’s USB port.

Portable External Blu-Ray Drive with USB 3.0 Connectivity

The Rioddas External Blu Ray Drive is a user-friendly and high-speed solution for your data transferring needs. Boasting up to 6 Gbps transfer rate, this external drive allows for swift data transmission while maintaining stable performance. Easily compatible with laptops, desktops, and various operating systems, this sleek and portable device offers a convenient plug-and-play experience.

Portable USB 2.0 External CD/DVD Drive for Laptops

Introducing the Verbatim External Slimline CD-DVD Writer, the perfect companion for your notebook or ultrabook. This compact and lightweight device is equipped with an impressive 8x DVD write speed and a 24x CD write speed, making it a breeze to read and write CDs and DVDs on the go. With its USB powered feature, you won’t need to worry about carrying an additional AC adaptor. The Verbatim External Slimline offers compatibility with most CD and DVD formats including M-Disc, ensuring that you can work with a range of disc types. Whether you’re installing software or creating backups, this handy device fits effortlessly into your pocket, providing a portable solution for your optical media needs.

Laurensory External USB 3.0 Cd/Dvd Burner Player for Laptop

Introducing the Laurensory External DVD Drive, a high-speed USB 3.0 Type-C portable player that effortlessly transforms your laptop into a versatile multimedia hub. With compatibility spanning across multiple operating systems and laptop models, this external CD/DVD drive is a lifesaver for enjoying music, movies, and games on the go. Experience seamless data transfer and lag-free disc burning with its lightning-fast 8x DVD write speed and 24x CD write speed. The well-designed, compact, and durable construction makes it perfect for use in the office, school, home, or during your travels.

Amicool Type-C External DVD Drive Portable

Portable and slender, the Amicool USB External DVD Drive effortlessly slips into your travel bag for convenient on-the-go usage. This high-speed, compact drive boasts USB-A and USB-C connectors, ensuring compatibility with a variety of devices. With a 24x CD-ROM speed, rapid data transfer, and no need for external power, this external Cd Drive becomes the perfect companion for DVD enthusiasts everywhere.

Buyer’s Guide

External optical drives offer a convenient way to read and write CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs without needing to open your computer case. They can be particularly useful for people who have limited internal drive bays or for those who need to access optical storage on the go. This buyer’s guide will provide an overview of essential features, considerations, and general advice for purchasing an external optical drive.

Connections and Compatibility

Before purchasing an external optical drive, make sure it is compatible with your devices. Check if the drive supports the type of discs you plan to use (such as CD, DVD, or Blu-ray) and whether it has the appropriate connectors (USB, USB-C, Thunderbolt, or others). Although most modern devices use USB, some external optical drives come with multiple connection options, providing greater flexibility.

Speed and Performance

The speed at which an external optical drive reads and writes data can significantly impact its overall performance. Look for a drive with high data transfer rates to ensure smooth playback of music and video files. Additionally, consider the buffer size, which affects the drive’s ability to handle large data loads without errors.

Design and Portability

If you need an external optical drive for on-the-go usage, consider a portable drive with a compact, lightweight design. A rechargeable battery can be a convenient feature for those who may not be close to a power source at all times. Pay attention to the build quality to ensure the drive can withstand everyday wear and tear.

Software and Drivers

An external optical drive should come with compatible software for your operating system (Windows or macOS). Check if the manufacturer provides any extra features, such as disc burning or media player software, which can enhance your user experience. Ensure that the drive comes with necessary drivers to function correctly on your computer.

FAQ

What is an external optical drive?

An external optical drive is a peripheral device that allows users to read or write DVDs, CDs, and Blu-Ray discs. It is designed to be connected to a computer through a USB port, making it possible to access optical media without the need for an internal optical drive, which is often integrated into a laptop or desktop computer.

External optical drives are especially useful for users who need to quickly transfer data from an optical disc to a computer or vice versa, as well as those who want to watch a DVD movie on a computer without a built-in DVD player. Additionally, they can be convenient for users who want a portable option for carrying their optical media.

How do I choose the right external optical drive for my needs?

There are several factors to consider when choosing an external optical drive. First, check the compatibility of the drive with your computer’s operating system and any specific media formats you plan to use. Some drives may not support certain DVD or CD formats, so it’s essential to verify compatibility before making a purchase.

Second, consider the speed at which the drive is able to transfer data. Some external optical drives offer faster data transfer rates than others, so if you plan to copy large amounts of data or use the drive frequently, you may want to opt for a faster model. Additionally, look for drives with a high data transfer rate, as this will make copying and reading media faster as well.

What is the difference between an external DVD drive and an external Blu-Ray drive?

The primary difference between an external DVD drive and an external Blu-Ray drive is the media format they support. External DVD drives can read and write DVD-R/W, DVD+R/W, and DVD-RAM discs, while external Blu-Ray drives can read and write Blu-Ray discs, which offer enhanced data storage capacity and higher resolution video and audio quality.

Additionally, external Blu-Ray drives are typically more expensive than external DVD drives, as they require more advanced technology to support the higher data transfer rates and disc compatibility. However, if you need to work with Blu-Ray discs or require the enhanced data storage capacity, an external Blu-Ray drive may be the better choice.

How do I connect an external optical drive to my computer?

To connect an external optical drive to your computer, follow these steps:

1. Make sure your computer is powered on and your USB ports are enabled. 2. Insert the external optical drive’s USB connector into an available USB port on your computer (most external optical drives use a USB 2.0 or 3.0 connection). 3. The computer should automatically recognize the drive and install its drivers. If the computer does not automatically install the drivers, you may need to download and install the drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

Once the drive is connected and properly installed, you can use it to read or write optical media on your computer or transfer data between the disc and computer using the drive’s software interface. Note that some external optical drives may also come with their own software, which can be used to manage and organize the optical media on the disc.

Are external optical drives reliable?

External optical drives are generally reliable, as long as they are used and maintained properly. To ensure the longevity of the drive, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and humidity, and handle the drive with care to prevent any damage to the mechanical components. Additionally, make sure to use a high-quality USB cable to connect the drive to your computer, as a low-quality cable may cause connection issues or damage the drive’s internal components.

If you experience any issues with the drive, consult the manufacturer’s website or contact their support team for assistance. They may be able to provide a solution or send a replacement unit if the drive is still under warranty. Overall, external optical drives are a convenient and reliable way to access optical media on a computer without the need for an internal drive.

Is it possible to use an external optical drive on a laptop without an optical drive?

Yes, it is possible to use an external optical drive on a laptop that does not have an internal optical drive. Simply connect the external drive to a USB port on your laptop (most external optical drives use a USB 2.0 or 3.0 connection), and the computer should automatically recognize the drive and install its drivers. You can then use the drive to read or write optical media on your laptop or transfer data between the disc and the laptop using the drive’s software interface.

External optical drives are especially useful for laptop owners, as they provide a portable and convenient way to access optical media without the need for an internal drive. Additionally, if you have a laptop that does not support certain media formats, an external optical drive can be a cost-effective solution to ensure compatibility without the need for an expensive system upgrade.

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