10 Best External Cd Drives 2026 in the United States

The ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive BW-16D1X-U is a versatile external optical drive that excels in several key areas. Its standout feature is the super-fast 16x Blu-ray writing speed with BDXL support, which allows for storing up to 128 GB of data. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need to handle large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.

Compatibility is another strong point, as it works with both Mac and PC via a USB 3.0 connection, and supports various Windows operating systems (from XP to Windows 10) as well as macOS 10.6 and higher. This ensures broad usability across different devices and systems. Additionally, the drive includes a cloud backup solution for Android devices, adding a layer of convenience for mobile users.

The diamond-shaped design of the drive adds a touch of luxury and style, making it visually appealing. The inclusion of CyberLink Power2Go 8 with optional encryption functionality enhances data protection and security. Despite some minor limitations, such as the drive's size and weight (9.5 x 2.5 x 6.5 inches and 2.6 pounds) potentially impacting portability, the ASUS BW-16D1X-U remains a highly capable and reliable external Blu-ray drive, especially for those looking for fast writing speeds and extensive compatibility.

This portable external USB DVD drive is designed for users who need an additional CD/DVD drive for computers lacking an internal one. It's compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, making it versatile for different devices such as laptops and desktops. The plug-and-play feature is convenient as it doesn't require additional drivers or a separate power source, since it runs on USB power.

The drive is portable, lightweight, and compact, with an embedded cable design that adds to its ease of transport. Styled with a modern look, it could appeal to users who value aesthetics along with functionality. It offers decent read and write speeds - 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs - which are suitable for general use such as burning files, installing software, or creating backup CDs.

While the device provides faster data transfer rates due to its pure-copper-knitted-net technology, it is important to note that it might not match the performance required for more intensive tasks such as high-volume data burning or professional media work. Additionally, users with older computers or those needing specific driver installations might encounter compatibility issues. Its strengths lie in ease of use, wide compatibility, and portability. However, potential drawbacks include limited high-speed functionality and possible issues with some hardware interfaces. This drive would suit everyday users needing a straightforward, efficient solution for basic CD/DVD tasks, particularly those with modern operating systems and USB ports.

The LG Electronics BDXL WP50NB40 is a solid choice if you want an external drive that can read and write not only CDs and DVDs but also Blu-ray discs, including the larger BDXL format. It connects via USB 2.0, which is compatible with most PCs but is slower compared to newer USB versions, so transfers might take a bit longer. Its read speeds are decent: 24X for CDs, 8X for DVDs, and 6X for Blu-rays, with writing speeds slightly lower but still good for everyday use. The drive is quite portable, weighing under 10 ounces and slim enough to carry around easily, and it draws power directly from the USB port, so you don’t need an extra power adapter.

One limitation is that it only supports Windows operating systems up to Windows 8.1 officially, which could be an issue if you use a newer OS without checking compatibility. Also, the USB 2.0 interface may feel outdated if you’re used to faster USB 3.0 or higher connections. This drive suits users who want a reliable external Blu-ray player and burner for watching or backing up discs, especially if you don’t mind the slower USB 2.0 speed and mainly use compatible Windows PCs. If you need faster data transfer or Mac compatibility, you might want to consider other options.