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

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.

What sets this drive apart is its support for M-DISC technology, making it a great option for long-term data storage. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize the longevity of their data. The drive’s relatively lightweight and portable design also means it can be easily transported, making it a good choice for users on the go.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While it’s generally user-friendly, those not familiar with external drives might need to read the user manual for initial setup. Additionally, being a desktop drive, it does require an external power source, which might not appeal to those looking for a completely portable solution. Its physical size could be a bit bulky for some users compared to slim, ultra-portable alternatives. The OWC Mercury Pro is ideal for Mac users needing a reliable, stylish external drive that offers impressive read/write speeds and long-term storage options. It might be best suited for those who value durability and performance over extreme portability.

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XS07S is a portable and stylish device, designed to cater to Mac users needing an external DVD drive. Its sleek silver finish complements modern computers, making it an attractive addition. With a write speed of 6x and support for various formats including BD, DVD, and M-DISC, it offers solid performance for most standard tasks. The USB Type-C connection allows for compatibility with newer Mac models, while the included USB Type-C cable adds convenience right out of the box.

One of the notable strengths is its support for M-DISC, allowing users to store data long-term. This feature could be especially appealing for those who prioritize data preservation. However, the drive does not support Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, which might be a limitation for users seeking high-definition capabilities.

In terms of portability, the drive is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. While the drive is compatible with a wide range of macOS versions, it lacks bundled software, meaning users need to source their own applications for specific tasks. Additionally, its operation may produce louder sounds if lower-quality discs are used, which could be a concern in quiet environments.

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XD08G is a solid choice for Mac users needing an external DVD drive. This device stands out in a few key areas. Firstly, its compatibility is excellent, supporting a wide range of macOS versions from Sierra to the latest ones like Sonoma. This ensures that it will work with most Macs in use today, and it's also compatible with Windows systems. The connection type is modern and versatile, featuring USB 3.2 Gen1, which provides faster data transfer speeds and stable power supply. It also includes a Type-C conversion cable, making it convenient for newer MacBook models with limited ports.

The read/write speeds are respectable, with a maximum write speed of 6X, which should be sufficient for most users' needs. Additionally, its ultra-lightweight design (230g) and slim, clamshell construction make it incredibly portable, ideal for users who need to carry it around frequently. The drive supports a variety of formats, including Blu-ray, DVD, and CD, and includes the PureRead 3+ technology for accurate reading of CDs, which is a nice touch for those with extensive CD collections. Another notable feature is its long-term data protection with M-DISC support, which is beneficial for users looking to archive important data.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks. The maximum write speed of 6X, while decent, might not be fast enough for users with large amounts of data to burn regularly. Also, the luxurious gold color, while aesthetically pleasing, may not be to everyone's taste and might not match all devices. Despite these minor issues, the Pioneer BDR-XD08G is a reliable and versatile external drive, particularly well-suited for Mac users seeking portability and broad compatibility.