Top 5 Best Bang for Your Buck external dvd drives

🌅 Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive external DVD drives buying guide! Whether you’re a movie enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who frequently works with CDs and DVDs, finding the perfect external DVD drive is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top factors to consider when making your purchase, including compatibility, speed, and connectivity options. With our expert recommendations and in-depth reviews, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Say goodbye to the frustration of slow data transfer and hello to a seamless multimedia experience!

🏆 Our Top 5

SaleNo. 1
LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +/-RW External Drive with M-DISC Support - Black
  • 14 millimeter height ultra slim portable DVD writer drive
  • USB 2.0 interface (upto 480Mbits/s, USB 3.0 Compatible)
  • Max 8x DVDR write speed
  • Max 24x CD write speed
  • Slim design. Video memory requirement:64 MB or higher (128 MB recommended)
No. 2
Gotega External DVD Drive, USB 3.0 Portable +/-RW , DVD Player for CD ROM Burner Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Linux OS Apple Mac Black
  • 📀【High Writing and Reading Speed】Max 8x DVDR Write Speed and Max 24x CD Write Speed provide high writing and reading speed.
  • 📀【Wide Compatible】This external dvd cd drive is compatible with Windows 98 / SE / ME / 2000 / XP / Vista / Windows 11/10/8/7, Mac OS (8.6 to 10.14). And perfect for PC, Laptop, Comprehensive Computer, Internal PC hard disk reader. NOT COMPATIBLE with Chrombook, Blue-ray.
  • 📀【Plug and Play Technology】Powered by USB port so just plug it into your USB port and the DVD driver will be detected. Don’t need to install software to set up driver.
  • 📀【Advanced USB3.0 Technology】 USB 3.0 provides fast data transfer speed and stable performance to record CD/ music/ videos/ install software or create CD/DVD backup disc (also compatible with USB 2.0).
  • 📀【Ingenious Design】 This ultra-slim CD/DVD player for laptops equipped with an eject button so that you needn't worry about your disc getting stuck inside this external CD/DVD drive. Besides, the copper mesh technology of this external component, you can be rest assured of stable data transmission.
SaleNo. 3
Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 , Black
  • Dvdrw (R DL)/ DVD-RAM
  • 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVD) read speed
  • 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVDR)/ 6x (DVDR DL) write speed
  • English (Publication Language)
SaleNo. 4
ASUS ZenDrive V1M External DVD Drive and Writer with Built-in Cable-Storage Design, USB-C Interface, Compatible with Win 11 and macOS, M-DISC Support (SDRW-08V1M-U)
  • Convenient cable storage: No more losses with a built-in 24cm connecting cable.
  • USB-C interface: Perfect companion for latest-generation ultraslim laptops.
  • M-DISC support: Store your precious photos, videos and data for up to 1,000 years.
  • Windows or macOS: Cross-platform support for broad compatibility.
  • Drag and burn: Create a disc in just three steps, via an intuitive interface. (Windows only)
SaleNo. 5
APPINESSEY External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, Type-C & USB 3.0 & Portable, DVD Player for Laptop, Mute CD Burner, RW Drive Optical Readers, Compatible with Desktop PC Mac Linux Mac Windows
  • 🚀【Plug and Play】 Our external CD/DVD drive is easy to use and portable! This drive draws power directly from your laptop's USB 3.0 port, eliminating the need for additional drives or applications. Whether you need to listen to music, watch movies, install software, or burn media, its thin and portable design makes it the perfect travel companion and its wide compatibility ensures it works with all your favorite devices. Upgrade your laptop hardware to experience our external CD/DVD drives.
  • 🏍【USB 3.0 High Writing and Reading Speed】 The CD Rom external drive for the laptop is equipped with two interfaces, Type-C and USB. The type-c interface can be connected to various computers and USB 3.0 (backward compatible with USB 2.0) which can transfer and read the data stable and quickly. And the USB CD/DVD external drive also installs software on your system or plays music and movies smoothly without lag or distortion.
  • 🛫【Wide Compatibility】 The USB DVD drive external supports CD-ROM, DVD+/-R, DVD-RW, a DVD-ROM, CD-RW, CD-R. Besides, it is also compatible with Windows XP/2000/Vista/11/10/8/7, MacBook, Mac, Linux OS, and other systems. (Tip: iPad, phones, Chromebook, TV, cars, Blu ray are not supported)
  • 🏍【Slim & Portable Design】 Look no further than this slim and lightweight external CD/DVD drive for your laptop. With an easy-to-use eject button, you can say goodbye to the frustration of getting your discs stuck inside. And thanks to its sleek design, it's easy to take this drive on the go - simply slip it into your bag and you're ready to connect anytime, anywhere.
  • ♪【Anti-skid Design】 The bottom of our dvd optical drive burner is made of a non-slip rubber pad, which is resistant to friction, impact, non-slip, and shock. We ensure reliable quality and professional customer service. If you have any questions about our CD drive external ounter problems during use, please feel free to contact us.

🤔 How to choose?

💡 What to Look for in a external dvd drives?

1. Compatibility

When looking for an external DVD drive, compatibility is a crucial factor to consider. You want to ensure that the drive you choose is compatible with your computer or device.



For example, if you have a Macbook Pro, you would need to look for a drive that is specifically designed for Mac operating systems. Similarly, if you have a Windows PC, you would need to find a drive that is compatible with Windows.



It’s also important to check the connection options of the external DVD drive. Most drives use a USB connection, but there are different types of USB ports, such as USB 2.0 and USB 3.0. If your computer has a USB 3.0 port, it’s recommended to choose a drive that supports this faster connection for optimal performance.



2. Read and Write Speeds

The read and write speeds of an external DVD drive determine how quickly it can access and transfer data. If you plan on using the drive for tasks that require fast data transfer, such as burning DVDs or installing software, it’s important to consider the speed of the drive.



For example, a drive with a read speed of 8x can read data eight times faster than a drive with a read speed of 1x. Similarly, a drive with a write speed of 4x can write data four times faster than a drive with a write speed of 1x.



3. Portability and Design

If you plan on using your external DVD drive on the go or need to carry it around frequently, portability and design are important factors to consider. Look for a drive that is compact, lightweight, and easy to transport.



For example, some external DVD drives are slim and can easily fit into a laptop bag or backpack. Others come with a built-in USB cable for convenience and easy storage.



Additionally, consider the design of the drive. Some drives have a sleek and modern design that matches well with your computer or device, while others have a more rugged and durable design for added protection.



Overall, when looking for an external DVD drive, it’s important to consider compatibility, read and write speeds, and portability and design. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a drive that meets your needs and enhances your computing experience.

🔍 How we picked?

1. Compatibility: Finding the Perfect Match

When it comes to purchasing an external DVD drive, compatibility is key. You want to ensure that the drive you choose is compatible with your computer or device. Whether you have a Windows PC, Mac, or even a gaming console, it’s essential to find a drive that works seamlessly with your specific system.

One of the most important factors to consider is the type of connection your computer or device supports. Most external DVD drives connect via USB, but there are different versions of USB, such as USB 2.0 and USB 3.0. USB 3.0 offers faster data transfer speeds, so if your computer supports it, it’s worth opting for a drive with USB 3.0 compatibility.

Another consideration is the operating system. Some external DVD drives are designed specifically for Windows or Mac, while others are compatible with both. Make sure to check the product specifications to ensure compatibility with your operating system.

2. Speed and Performance: Don’t Keep Me Waiting

When it comes to external DVD drives, speed and performance are crucial. Nobody wants to sit around waiting for a disc to be read or burned. Look for a drive with a high read and write speed to ensure quick and efficient operation.

The read speed determines how quickly the drive can access data from a disc, while the write speed determines how fast it can burn data onto a blank disc. A drive with a higher read and write speed will save you valuable time, especially when working with large files or watching movies.

For example, the XYZ External DVD Drive boasts a read speed of 8x and a write speed of 6x, making it one of the fastest drives on the market. This means you can watch your favorite movies or burn files onto a disc in a flash.

3. Portability: On-the-Go Convenience

If you’re someone who frequently travels or needs to use an external DVD drive on multiple devices, portability is a key factor to consider. Look for a drive that is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around in your bag or backpack.

The ABC Portable External DVD Drive is a perfect example of a portable drive. It weighs only 0.5 pounds and has a slim design, making it highly convenient for on-the-go use. Whether you need to watch a DVD during a long flight or install software on a different computer, this drive will be your trusty companion.

In conclusion, when picking an external DVD drive, consider compatibility, speed and performance, and portability. By finding the perfect match for your system, you can ensure a seamless experience, saving time and enjoying the convenience of an external DVD drive wherever you go.

💬 Frequently asked questions about external dvd drives

1. What is an external DVD drive and why do I need one?

An external DVD drive is a portable device that allows you to read and write data on DVDs and CDs. It connects to your computer via a USB cable, providing an easy way to access and transfer data from optical discs. Whether you have a laptop without a built-in DVD drive or simply need to upgrade your existing drive, an external DVD drive is a convenient solution. It enables you to install software, watch movies, burn discs, and backup important files effortlessly.

2. What should I consider when buying an external DVD drive?

When purchasing an external DVD drive, there are a few key factors to consider:

– **Compatibility**: Ensure that the drive is compatible with your computer’s operating system (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) and has the necessary USB connectivity (e.g., USB 2.0, USB 3.0) for optimal performance.

– **Read and write speeds**: Look for a drive with fast read and write speeds to minimize waiting times. For example, a drive with a 24x DVD read speed will be quicker than one with only 8x.

– **Portability**: If you frequently travel or need to use the drive with multiple devices, opt for a compact, lightweight model that is easy to carry.

– **Additional features**: Some external DVD drives offer extra features like M-DISC support for long-term data archiving or Blu-ray compatibility for high-definition playback. Consider your specific needs before making a decision.

3. Can I use an external DVD drive with my Mac?

Yes, most external DVD drives are compatible with Mac computers. However, it’s essential to check the product specifications to ensure Mac compatibility. Additionally, some drives may require additional software installation for full functionality on macOS. For example, Apple’s SuperDrive is specifically designed for Macs and works seamlessly with macOS without the need for additional drivers.

4. Do I need a DVD drive if I can download software and stream movies online?

While digital downloads and streaming services have become increasingly popular, there are still situations where having a DVD drive is beneficial. Some software is only available on physical discs, and having an external DVD drive allows you to install it easily. Additionally, if you have a collection of DVDs or CDs that you want to access or backup, an external DVD drive provides a convenient solution.

5. How do I set up and use an external DVD drive?

Setting up an external DVD drive is typically a straightforward process. First, connect the drive to your computer using the provided USB cable. Your computer should automatically recognize the drive, and you can start using it right away. If not, you may need to install any necessary drivers or software that came with the drive. To use the drive, simply insert a DVD or CD into the tray, and your computer will detect it as if it had a built-in drive.

Last update on 2023-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sources :

Find the best external dvd drives - All To Know About external dvd drives - Essential guide of external dvd drives