10 Best External Cd Player For Mac 2025 in the United States

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-X13UBK is a strong choice for Mac users looking for an external optical drive. One of its key strengths is its impressive writing speed, offering up to 16x for BD-R discs and 48x for CD-Rs, which ensures quick data transfer and efficient media creation. It's also compatible with a wide range of formats, including BDXL and M-DISC, making it suitable for long-term data archiving. Mac compatibility is good, supporting various macOS versions, so most users can easily integrate it into their systems.

The PureRead 3+ feature enhances the experience when ripping audio CDs, minimizing errors caused by scratches, which is great for those who value high-quality music imports. Additionally, its design allows for both vertical and horizontal placement, making it versatile for different workspace setups.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the writing speeds are impressive, the drive's bulkiness at 2.42 pounds may be inconvenient for frequent travelers seeking portability. Also, relying on an AC adapter can be a hassle if you prefer a completely USB-powered solution. The build quality, while adequate, may not feel premium to some users, which could be a concern for those seeking a more robust feel in their electronic devices.

The Pioneer BDR-XS07UHD is a portable external Blu-ray burner designed specifically for Mac computers, enabling reading and writing of CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs, including the high-capacity 100GB M-DISC for long-term data storage. It connects via USB Type-C, compatible with newer Mac models, ensuring a stable and fast connection without the need for additional adapters.

With write speeds up to 6x and read speeds of 8x, this drive is efficient for everyday use, though not the fastest on the market. Its slot-loading design helps keep dust out and operates quietly, making it ideal for users who prefer minimal distractions. The Auto Quiet mode smartly balances speed and noise, slowing down during movie or music playback to avoid interruptions. Included in the package are useful software and a USB cable, so it is ready to use right away.

Weighing just over a pound and slim enough for easy portability, it requires an external power source via USB, which depends on the Mac's USB port power and may not suit those wanting a completely wireless or battery-powered option. While it supports multiple disc formats, its moderate read/write speeds might not meet the needs of users requiring very fast burning or copying regularly. This drive is well-suited for Mac users seeking a reliable, quiet, and durable external burner, especially valuable for long-term data storage with M-DISC.

The Apple USB SuperDrive is a well-crafted external CD and DVD player designed specifically for Mac users. One of its standout features is its sleek and compact design, making it extremely portable. It fits comfortably in most bags, which is great for users who are frequently on the go. This drive connects via a built-in USB Type-A cable, eliminating the hassle of lost cables and needing an extra power source, making it convenient for use whether at home or while traveling.

In terms of performance, the SuperDrive offers solid read and write speeds, reaching up to 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs, which is suitable for most everyday tasks like watching movies or backing up files. Compatibility is also a plus, as it works with Mac models from 2008 onward that lack a built-in optical drive.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The SuperDrive only connects via USB 2.0, which might feel a bit outdated compared to faster USB 3.0 or USB-C options available today. Additionally, while it supports various formats, it doesn’t cater to all types of optical media, which could be a drawback for specific users with diverse needs. Lastly, the lack of a dedicated power adapter might raise concerns for those using it with older Mac models that may have less reliable USB ports.

The Apple USB SuperDrive is a smart choice for Mac users looking for a reliable, portable solution to play and burn CDs and DVDs. It’s particularly ideal for users who value design simplicity and convenience, but those needing faster connectivity or broader format support might want to explore other options.