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 LG Electronics BP60NB10 Ultra Slim Portable Hybrid Drive is a versatile optical drive well-suited for Mac users primarily due to its compatibility with various operating systems, including Mac OS. This drive supports a wide range of disc types, including UHD 4K, Blu-ray, DVD, and CDs, which is excellent for users who need to access different media formats. Its portability is a key strength, weighing only 9.6 ounces and with compact dimensions of 6.1 x 5.7 x 0.6 inches, making it easy to carry alongside a MacBook or other devices.

One of its noted features is its ability to reduce noise during disc playback, which enhances the viewing experience, especially when watching movies. Additionally, it has technology to smooth playback on damaged discs, which could save users from the hassle of skipping or playback errors. However, the drive connects via USB 2.0, which is slightly outdated compared to the faster USB 3.0 connections typically available on modern devices. This may result in slower data transfer speeds than some users might expect.

The optical drive has a 6x write speed, which, while adequate for most tasks, might not be the fastest option for those looking to burn large quantities of data quickly. The product also boasts M-DISC support for long-term data storage, beneficial for users needing to archive important data. In terms of additional features, the product includes noise reduction technology and is quiet during operation, which is a plus for those in noise-sensitive environments. Its customer ratings are positive, with a 4.2 out of 5 stars from 667 reviews, indicating a generally satisfactory user experience. However, potential buyers might consider the USB 2.0 speed and decide if it aligns with their needs for speed and efficiency.

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.