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10 Best Mac Compatible External Dvd Drives 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Verbatim External Slimline CD DVD Blu-Ray Writer USB 3.2 Gen 1 Drive M-Disc Ready Compatible with Windows 8/10/11 Mac OS X 10.6 or higher Blu-ray Burner with free 25GB Blu-ray disc

The Verbatim External Slimline CD DVD Blu-Ray Writer is a versatile and compact option for those needing a mac-compatible external drive. It excels in compatibility, supporting both Windows (8/10/11) and Mac OS X 10.6 or higher, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The connection is facilitated through USB 3.2 Gen 1, ensuring faster data transfer rates, although it's also compatible with USB 2.0, which is a plus for older systems.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,147
Compatibility
Read/Write Speed
Durability

Most important from
6331 reviews

Compatibility
The drive performs flawlessly across multiple platforms, including Windows and Linux, with seamless DVD and CD playback.
Read/Write Speed
Quiet operation and speed make this drive a standout, especially when compared to older models like the Apple USB SuperDrive.
Durability
Burning discs with Verbatim media results in consistent success, underscoring the drive's reliability.
#2
9.7 score

OWC Mercury Pro 16X Blu-ray, 16X DVD, 48X CD Read/Write Solution

The OWC Mercury Pro 16X Blu-ray and DVD drive is a solid choice for anyone needing an external optical drive, especially for Mac users. It's compatible with both macOS and Windows, which makes it versatile for different users. One of its standout features is the aluminum housing, which not only gives it a sleek appearance but also adds to its durability. Its USB 3.0 connection ensures fast data transfer rates, with a writing speed of up to 48X for CDs and decent speeds for DVDs and Blu-rays as well.

#3
9.7 score

Verbatim Ultra HD 4K CD DVD Blu-ray Writer USB 3.2 GEN 1 USB-C Connectivity Slim Brushed Metal Enclosure Compatible with Mac and PC with Free 25GB Verbatim Blu-ray disc

The Verbatim Ultra HD 4K CD DVD Blu-ray Writer is a versatile and sleek option for users seeking a Mac-compatible external DVD drive, though it comes with some notable limitations. With its slim, brushed metal design, it is compact and lightweight, ideal for carrying alongside a notebook or ultrabook. Its USB 3.2 GEN 1 connection with USB-C compatibility ensures fast data transfer and easy connectivity with both Mac and PC devices.

Rating
9.7
Compatibility
Read/Write Speed
Durability

Most important from
6331 reviews

Compatibility
Seamless compatibility with Windows and Linux systems ensures a versatile experience.
Read/Write Speed
Ripping over 100 CDs, this drive continues to perform flawlessly and is notably faster than older models.
Durability
Using Verbatim discs resolves previous issues with dual-layer disc burning, showcasing the drive's reliability.

Top 10 Best Mac Compatible External Dvd Drives 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Verbatim External Slimline CD DVD Blu-Ray Writer USB 3.2 Gen 1 Drive M-Disc Ready Compatible with Windows 8/10/11 Mac OS X 10.6 or higher Blu-ray Burner with free 25GB Blu-ray disc

Compatibility: Windows 8/10/11, Mac OS X 10.6+
Connection Type: USB 3.2 Gen 1
Read/Write Speed: 6X Blu-ray, 8X DVD, 24X CD
Size and Portability: Slim, 5.7 x 5.23 x 0.43 in
Power Source: USB Y cable or external power
Durability: 2-year limited warranty

Chosen by 1147 this week

OWC Mercury Pro 16X Blu-ray, 16X DVD, 48X CD Read/Write Solution

Compatibility: macOS, Windows
Connection Type: USB 3.0
Read/Write Speed: 48x
Portability: Lightweight and portable
Supported Formats: M-DISC
Additional Features: Aluminum housing, external power required
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Buying Guide for the Best Mac Compatible External Dvd Drives

Choosing the right external DVD drive for your Mac can enhance your ability to read and write DVDs, which is useful for various tasks such as watching movies, backing up data, or installing software. When selecting an external DVD drive, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure compatibility and performance that meets your needs.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the external DVD drive can work with your Mac's operating system and hardware. This is crucial because not all drives are designed to work seamlessly with macOS. Look for drives that explicitly state they are compatible with Mac. This ensures that you won't face issues with drivers or software conflicts. If you have a newer Mac model, make sure the drive supports the latest macOS version.
Connection TypeConnection type refers to how the external DVD drive connects to your Mac. Common connection types include USB-A, USB-C, and Thunderbolt. USB-A is widely used but may require an adapter for newer Macs that only have USB-C ports. USB-C and Thunderbolt offer faster data transfer speeds and are more future-proof. Choose a connection type that matches your Mac's available ports and consider the convenience of not needing additional adapters.
Read/Write SpeedRead/write speed indicates how quickly the drive can read data from or write data to a DVD. This is important for efficiency, especially if you plan to burn large amounts of data or watch high-definition movies. Speeds are usually measured in multiples of 'x' (e.g., 8x, 16x). Higher speeds mean faster performance. If you need the drive for occasional use, a lower speed may suffice, but for frequent or heavy use, opt for higher speeds.
Size and PortabilitySize and portability refer to the physical dimensions and weight of the external DVD drive. If you plan to use the drive at home, a larger, less portable model might be acceptable. However, if you need to carry it with you, a compact and lightweight drive is preferable. Consider how often you'll need to transport the drive and choose one that fits your lifestyle.
Power SourcePower source indicates whether the external DVD drive requires an external power supply or can be powered directly through the USB connection. Drives that are USB-powered are more convenient and portable, as they don't require an additional power adapter. If you prefer a clutter-free setup or need to use the drive on the go, opt for a USB-powered model.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the external DVD drive can withstand wear and tear over time. This is important for ensuring long-term reliability, especially if you plan to use the drive frequently or transport it often. Look for drives with sturdy construction and positive reviews regarding their longevity. If you need a drive for occasional use, durability may be less of a concern, but for regular use, invest in a more robust model.

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