10 Best External Dvd Drives For Macbook Pros 2025 in the United States

The ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive is designed for users who need an external optical drive solution for their MacBook Pro, among other devices. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it a convenient choice, requiring no manual driver installation and supporting quick recognition by the computer. It offers versatile features beyond just reading discs; it can also write, burn, and rip CDs and DVDs, which broadens its utility for various tasks like installing software and playing media files.

Compatibility is strong, supporting a range of operating systems including macOS, Windows, and Linux, though it does not support Chromebooks, phones, tablets, game consoles, or certain disc formats like Blu-ray and 4K discs. This may limit its use for some users with these devices. The drive connects via USB 3.0 Type-A and Type-C, offering high-speed data transfer rates up to 5Gbps, which is significantly faster than USB 2.0.

For situations where additional power is required, an extra power supply cord is included, though it should not be used independently. The device is compact and portable, making it easy to carry around, and its durable design ensures protection from water, dust, and drops. Users should be aware of certain limitations, such as the inability to open the tray via a button on macOS after usage. Despite these minor drawbacks, the ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive stands out for its reliable performance, ease of use, and extensive compatibility, making it a solid choice for users needing a portable and versatile external optical drive.

The Kadlun External DVD CD Drive is a versatile and portable option for MacBook Pro users who need an external drive for reading and writing CDs and DVDs. It offers broad compatibility, working seamlessly with Windows, Linux, and all versions of Mac OS, though it's important to note that it does not support Chromebooks, Android devices, TVs, iPads, iPhones, projectors, vehicles, or Blu-ray discs. This makes it suitable for most laptops and desktop PCs, including MacBook Pros.

The drive features a combined USB 3.0 and USB-C data cable, allowing for faster data transfer speeds up to 5 Gigabits/s, which is significantly faster than USB 2.0. The inclusion of both connectors eliminates the need for an adapter, making it convenient for users with different types of ports on their devices. In addition to reading discs, it can burn and rip CDs and DVDs, supporting various formats such as CD±R/RW, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD disks. However, the eject button is disabled when used with macOS, requiring users to eject discs through the desktop interface.

The drive is lightweight and compact, with dimensions of 6 x 6 x 0.98 inches and weighing just 11.3 ounces, making it easy to carry around in a laptop bag. It is also praised for its reliable performance, strong error-correcting capabilities, and quiet operation. The Kadlun drive is an excellent choice for people who need a portable and efficient external DVD/CD drive, particularly for MacBook Pro users. However, those needing Blu-ray support or compatibility with non-PC devices will need to look elsewhere.

The Amicool USB 3.0 and USB-C External DVD Drive is a versatile choice for MacBook Pro users who need an external optical drive. Its plug-and-play feature means you can use it without needing additional drivers or an external power source, which is convenient for those who want a straightforward setup. This drive is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, making it adaptable for different devices, although it's not suitable for use with Chromebooks, TVs, cars, or tablets.

The drive offers decent read and write speeds, with a maximum of 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs. This should be adequate for most everyday needs such as watching DVDs or burning CDs. However, if you're looking for ultra-fast performance, this might not be the top choice. The inclusion of both USB 3.0 and USB-C interfaces provides flexibility and faster data transmission up to 5Gbps, which reduces the chances of lag while using media.

Portability is a significant plus for this device, thanks to its slim and lightweight design, weighing just 11.6 ounces. The scratch-proof exterior and embedded cable design mean it's well-suited for travel, allowing you to easily slip it into a bag without worrying about damage. This drive also supports various disc formats, adding to its functionality as a CD/DVD burner and player. On the downside, some users might find the build quality less durable compared to more premium options, but for its price point, it offers a reasonable balance of features and performance. With a customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, it appears to satisfy the needs of many users, being particularly ideal for those who want an affordable, portable, and easy-to-use external optical drive.