10 Best External Cd Dvd Drives 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive with 16x Writing Speed and USB 3.0 for Both Mac/PC Optical Drive BW-16D1X-U
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.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,180
Compatibility
Read/Write Speed
Durability
Most important from
2361 reviews
#2
BUFFALO MediaStation 6X Portable Type-C USB 3.2 (Gen 1) Blu-ray Drive/External, Plays and Burns Blu-Rays, DVDs, and CDs. Compatible with PC/Mac Laptops and Desktops
The BUFFALO MediaStation 6X Portable Type-C USB 3.2 Blu-ray Drive stands out for its impressive compatibility and portability, making it versatile for both PC and Mac users. Its slim design, weighing just 0.5 lbs, ensures easy transport, suitable for users who frequently travel with laptops. With USB 3.2 connectivity, this drive offers adaptable compatibility, including a Type-C adapter for modern devices. Its read and write speeds are decent, with Blu-ray speeds at 6x and DVD speeds at 8x, which should suffice for most casual and professional tasks. An added perk is its support for M-DISC, allowing recordings that can withstand various environmental factors for up to 1000 years, appealing to users looking for durable data storage solutions.
Rating
8.8
Durability
Most important from
100 reviews
#3
Portable External USB DVD Drive Compatible for Microsoft Windows 11/10/8.1 etc, Mac OS, Dell,Acer, ASUS, Apple, Samsung, Lenovo Laptop PC Desktop, CD/DVD-RW Drive, CD-RW Rewriter
This portable external USB DVD drive is a versatile option for users needing an external optical drive. It scores well on compatibility, supporting a wide range of operating systems including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, making it suitable for various laptops and desktop computers from brands like Dell, Acer, ASUS, Apple, and Samsung. The ease of use is a significant strength, with a plug-and-play feature that requires no external power or drivers, which simplifies setup and use, especially for those who may not be tech-savvy.
Rating
8.5
Compatibility
Most important from
85 reviews
Top 10 Best External Cd Dvd Drives 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive with 16x Writing Speed and USB 3.0 for Both Mac/PC Optical Drive BW-16D1X-U
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 1180 this week
BUFFALO MediaStation 6X Portable Type-C USB 3.2 (Gen 1) Blu-ray Drive/External, Plays and Burns Blu-Rays, DVDs, and CDs. Compatible with PC/Mac Laptops and Desktops
BUFFALO MediaStation 6X Portable Type-C USB 3.2 (Gen 1) Blu-ray Drive/External, Plays and Burns Blu-Rays, DVDs, and CDs. Compatible with PC/Mac Laptops and Desktops
Compatibility: PC, Mac
Read/Write Speed: Blu-ray 6x, DVD 8x
Supported Formats: Blu-Ray, DVD, CD, M-DISC
Portability: 0.5 lbs
Power Source: USB bus powered
Durability: M-DISC support
Portable External USB DVD Drive Compatible for Microsoft Windows 11/10/8.1 etc, Mac OS, Dell,Acer, ASUS, Apple, Samsung, Lenovo Laptop PC Desktop, CD/DVD-RW Drive, CD-RW Rewriter
Portable External USB DVD Drive Compatible for Microsoft Windows 11/10/8.1 etc, Mac OS, Dell,Acer, ASUS, Apple, Samsung, Lenovo Laptop PC Desktop, CD/DVD-RW Drive, CD-RW Rewriter
Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, Linux
Read/Write Speed: 24x CD, 8x DVD
Supported Formats: DVD-R, DVD-RW, USB, CD-R, CD-RW
Portability: Lightweight, compact
Power Source: USB power
Durability: Premium material
Lenovo External ThinkPad UltraSlim USB DVD Burner (4xa0e97775)
Lenovo External ThinkPad UltraSlim USB DVD Burner (4xa0e97775)
Compatibility: Windows 7-11, USB 3.0/2.0 ports
Read/Write Speed: Read up to 8x DVD, 24x CD
Supported Formats: DVD+R DL, common DVD and CD
Portability: Compact, lightweight 235g, slim
Power Source: USB port powered
BUFFALO MediaStation Desktop 16x External Blu-ray Writer for PC with USB 3.0. TAA Compliant. Plays and Burns Blu-Rays, DVDs, and CDs.
BUFFALO MediaStation Desktop 16x External Blu-ray Writer for PC with USB 3.0. TAA Compliant. Plays and Burns Blu-Rays, DVDs, and CDs.
Compatibility: Windows, Mac
Read/Write Speed: 12x/16x Blu-ray, 16x/16x DVD
Supported Formats: Blu-ray, DVD, CD
Power Source: USB
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Dell External USB Ultra Slim DVD +/-RW Slot Drive (44TV1)
Dell External USB Ultra Slim DVD +/-RW Slot Drive (44TV1)
Compatibility: USB 2.0, laptops, tablets
Read/Write Speed: 24x
Supported Formats: DVD+/-RW
Portability: Compact, lightweight, 8.7 oz, 0.56 in
Power Source: USB powered
Durability: Plastic build, 1-year warranty
LG Electronics External Slim DVDRW 8X with Software, Black GP50NB40
LG Electronics External Slim DVDRW 8X with Software, Black GP50NB40
Compatibility: Windows 7, 8, Vista, XP, Mac OS X
Read/Write Speed: 8x read, 8x write
Supported Formats: CDs, DVDs, M-DISC
Portability: Portable, USB powered
Power Source: USB power
ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive for Mac Laptop, USB 3.0 & USB-C Portable CD Reader Writer Burner DVD Player ROM+/-RW Disc Drive with Carrying Case for Apple MacBook Windows 11 PC Computer, White
ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive for Mac Laptop, USB 3.0 & USB-C Portable CD Reader Writer Burner DVD Player ROM+/-RW Disc Drive with Carrying Case for Apple MacBook Windows 11 PC Computer, White
Compatibility: Mac, Windows, Linux; no Chromebooks/tablets
Read/Write Speed: Max 24xCD, 8xDVD
Supported Formats: CD-ROM, CD-R/RW, DVD-ROM, DVD+/-R/W
Portability: Slim, lightweight, with protective case
Power Source: USB powered; may need extra cable
Durability: Error correction, noise reduction, 2 years
ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive USB 3.0 & USB-C CD ROM Burner DVD Player with USB Hub and SD Card Reader, Portable CD DVD +/-RW Optical Disk Drive Writer for Laptop PC Windows 11/10, Mac, Linux Computer
ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive USB 3.0 & USB-C CD ROM Burner DVD Player with USB Hub and SD Card Reader, Portable CD DVD +/-RW Optical Disk Drive Writer for Laptop PC Windows 11/10, Mac, Linux Computer
Compatibility: Windows XP to 11, Mac, Linux
Read/Write Speed: CD 24x, DVD 8x
Supported Formats: CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+R, DVD-R
Portability: Ultra-slim, lightweight, integrated cable
Power Source: USB, extra power cord included
Durability: Two-year warranty
#10
HP External Portable Slim Design CD/DVD RW Write/Read Drive, USB, Black (F2B56AA)
HP External Portable Slim Design CD/DVD RW Write/Read Drive, USB, Black (F2B56AA)
Compatibility: Windows Vista, XP, 8, 7, macOS, 10
Read/Write Speed: 24X CDs, 8X DVDs
Supported Formats: DVD-ROM, CD-RW
Portability: Slim design, 10.8 ounces
Power Source: USB
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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.