10 Best Optical Drive For Mac 2025 in the United States

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-X13UBK is a solid choice for Mac users who need a reliable optical drive for reading and writing Blu-ray, DVD, and CD discs. It supports a wide range of disc formats, including large-capacity BDXL discs and archival M-DISC media, which is great if you want long-term data storage. With fast writing speeds up to 16x on BD-R and DVD-R discs, it can save you time when burning discs. The drive connects via USB 3.2 Gen 1, ensuring decent data transfer speeds and broad compatibility with recent Mac operating systems from OS X El Capitan up to macOS Ventura. Its design allows vertical or horizontal placement, offering flexibility for different workspace setups.

A unique feature called PureRead 3+ improves audio ripping by reducing errors caused by scratches or fingerprints, enhancing music quality. However, the drive is a bit heavier and larger than some ultra-portable models, which may impact portability if you plan to carry it frequently. Also, while it supports many disc types, writing speeds on some discs, like BD-R DL, are slower, which is typical but worth noting.

This drive suits Mac users who want a dependable, versatile external Blu-ray writer with good speed and added features for archival and audio quality, though it may be less ideal if you need a super lightweight, travel-friendly model.

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XS07S is a stylish optical drive that is compatible with a wide range of macOS versions, making it a suitable choice for Mac users. Its sleek silver design is intended to complement the aesthetic of Apple devices. This drive supports various disc formats, including M-DISC for long-term data protection, although it does not support Ultra HD Blu-ray (UHD) discs.

It offers a 6x write speed, which is efficient for most users' needs, but be aware that the speed may decrease with lower quality discs or increased operational temperature. The drive is portable, weighing only 9.9 ounces and measuring 5.31 x 5.31 x 0.71 inches, making it convenient to carry along with your laptop. Connection is via USB Type-C, and it includes a USB Type-C to Type-A cable, ensuring compatibility with modern MacBooks.

However, it's important to note that if connected through USB hubs or conversion cables, there might be insufficient power, potentially affecting performance. No software is included, so users must separately obtain the necessary applications for their specific tasks. The absence of bundled software might be a drawback for some, but it also allows flexibility in choosing the best software for individual needs. This drive is best suited for users looking for a reliable and stylish optical drive that integrates well with their Mac setup, with the caveat of needing to manage software and potential power supply issues when using USB hubs.

The ASUS BW-16D1X-U is a robust external Blu-ray drive that offers impressive 16x writing speed. It's well-suited for users who prioritize fast data writing and storage, boasting BDXL support that can handle up to 128 GB. This makes it particularly appealing for those needing to store large media files or backups. Its compatibility with both Mac and PC through a USB 3.0 connection ensures versatility, fitting seamlessly into various setups, whether you're on a Windows or Mac system.

The design is both functional and stylish, with a diamond-shaped exterior that adds a touch of elegance. However, it's important to note that the device is relatively bulky, measuring 9.5 x 2.5 x 6.5 inches, and weighs 2.6 pounds, which could affect portability if you're looking for a more travel-friendly option. One standout feature is the included CyberLink Power2Go 8 software, which enhances the disc-burning process with optional encryption, providing an extra layer of security for sensitive data.

Despite its high performance, it does require a dedicated power source, potentially limiting its use in mobile situations. Additionally, while it offers modern connectivity through USB 3.0, users seeking extensive compatibility with USB-C only systems might need an adapter. Given its strong performance ratings and being a top seller in its category, this drive is a solid choice for users who value speed, capacity, and a dual operating system environment, but may not be ideal for those who prioritize compactness and mobility.