Are you trying to find external cd dvd writers among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling external cd dvd writers on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 26 hours of research and did 45 external cd dvd writers tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best external cd dvd writers you can buy today
- Convenient cable storage: No more losses with a built-in 24cm connecting cable.
- USB-C interface: Perfect companion for latest-generation ultraslim laptops.
- M-DISC support: Store your precious photos, videos and data for up to 1,000 years.
- Windows or macOS: Cross-platform support for broad compatibility.
- Drag and burn: Create a disc in just three steps, via an intuitive interface. (Windows only)
- Disc Encryption: Hassle-free data protection through password control and hidden-folder functions. (Windows only)
- Backup software included: Nero BackItUp enables easy archival of photos, videos or data. (Windows only)
- What's in the box: ZenDrive V1M, CD Software, Installation Guide
- 【Best External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop Mac】Considering that most of the latest laptop and desktop PCs are not equipped with an internal CD/DVD drive. This ROOFULL USB 3.0 external CD/DVD drive is a perfect solution for most computers to read and write CDs and DVDs. Just plug the data cable into your computer's USB-A or USB-C port, and insert your CDs or DVDs, it will install the driver and be recognized automatically, you can then use the corresponding software to read and write your discs, no complex settings, plug and play! (Scroll down to see detailed steps and recommended software)
- 【Not Just DVD/CD-ROM External Drive】This is not just an external DVD and CD reader player, but also a fast DVD CD burner, writer, rewriter, recorder, and ripper. With this external DVD drive, you can enjoy your music CDs and movie DVDs, burn music, photos, or family videos to blank CDs /DVDs, and rip (digitize) audio CDs or video DVDs into digital files like MP3, WMA, or MP4 to store on your PC. You can also view photo discs, install software or games, and backup important data for long-term storage or sharing. lt supports all common disk formats, including CD-ROM, CD-R/RW, CD+R/RW, DVD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, and dual-layer DVD±R DL (VCD too). Note: Blu-ray and 4K discs are not supported
- 【True USB 3.0 Compliance & 2 Types of Connectors】Unlike many budget disk drives that claim USB 3.0 by using a look-alike connector but internally rely on a USB 20 setup (only 4 internal wires), this ROOFULL external CD drive features a genuines USB 3.0 solution, including a full 9-wire cable, dedicated USB 3.0 PCB, and 3.0 controller IC. This enables up to 5 Gbps transfer speeds (625MB/s, nearly 10x faster than USB 2.0) while ensuring better stability, power efficiency, and longer lifespan. In addition, the data cable under the drive has type-A and type-C 2 kinds of connectors, making it easier to connect to most laptops and desktops without needing an adapter
- 【Wide Compatibility】This USB CD DVD external drive for laptop works with with Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ Vista/ XP/ 2000/ ME/ 98 and most Linux laptops, desktops, and all-in-one PCs from brands like HP, Dell, Lenovo (ThinkPad), ASUS, LG, Samsung, Microsoft, and more. It’s also fully compatible with Apple MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, and Mac mini/Studio running macOS 10.16 or later. For desktop computers, we recommend connecting to a rear USB port for optimal power stability.【Note】 Not compatible with ChromeOS (Chromebooks), smartphones, iPads/tablets, TVs, projectors, vehicles (cars/trucks), some Surface models, and Blu-ray/4K discs.
- 【Separate Power Supply Cord】Modern ultra-thin laptops may reduce the USB port’s output power to conserve energy and extend battery life, which can prevent high-power external devices from receiving sufficient power. To address this power shortage, we provide an additional power cable, allowing you to supplement power from a USB power adapter or a power bank to ensure the stable operation of the optical disk drive. You can remove the power cord if the drive can get enough power through a single data cable. (Note: The power cord is not a data cable, avoid using it independently.)
- 【Excellent Performance】As a professional manufacturer with 10 years of experience dedicated to producing reliable-quality external CD/DVD drives. Each ROOFULL USB external CD/DVD reader writer is equipped with a 100% brand-new movement that features strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference ability, guaranteeing stable, quiet, and smooth operation. In addition, all DVD/CD players for laptops will go through strict testing processes before shipment to ensure the best condition. If the drive you received cannot work for any reason, just reach out to us for free tech support, a new device, or money back. (We provide up to 2 years of after-sales)
- 【Slim and Portable DVD Player】This sleek and compact USB DVD external drive is perfect for use at home, in the office, or on the go. It comes with a durable, thickened protective carrying case that shields your device from dust, water, and accidental drops—ideal for frequent travelers or everyday storage. A thoughtful gift for CD/DVD collectors and tech hobbyists alike. (Prefer no carrying case? Search “B07C1VP88H” on Amazon.)
- 【Best Thing to Know Before Buying】① Due to macOS limitations, the tray cannot be opened via the button after playing or burning a disc. To eject a disc on a Mac, right-click the desktop icon and select "Eject," or go to "File" > "Eject" from the menu. ② Plug the USB 3.0 Type-C data cable (stored under the drive) into your computer. Do not confuse it with the power cable. ③ Plug and play means no manual driver installation, but software is still required to play or burn discs. ④ Please carefully check the list of compatible devices to avoid purchasing the wrong item
- 14 millimeter height ultra slim portable DVD writer drive
- USB 2.0 interface (upto 480Mbits/s, USB 3.0 Compatible)
- Max 8x DVDR write speed
- Max 24x CD write speed
- Slim design. Video memory requirement:64 MB or higher (128 MB recommended)
- Slim Design
- With Cyberlink Software
- M Disc
- Portable CD/DVD Burner & Player - This external cd/dvd drive can be a CD/DVD burner, writer, player, reader, or ripper. Use this disk drive to play or burn music or movies, back up, store or transfer all files or material you wanted, like copying photos, reading X-ray on disk, or ripping some DVDs to your Apple MacBook Air. Also use this cd reader for laptop to download and install games or any other programs
- Wide Compatibility - This plug-and-play external cd drive for mac is compatible with many OS systems and laptop models. Windows 98/SE/ME/XP/10/8/7/Vista/Linux OS/Mojave OS/all version Mac OS system (ios 8.6 to 10.14). Ideal for PC and laptops like Mac laptop 2015/MacBook Pro/ASUS gaming laptop/Apple MacBook Air 2020/iMac/Mac Mini and more. For desktops, connect the usb dvd burner to the back USB port of the motherboard (Not support TV, car, iPad, Chromebook, Surface Pro, Ubuntu)
- High Speed - This dvd player portable is compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 and USB 1.0, this cd reader for pc provides high speed of data transfer. With Max 8x DVDR Write Speed and Max 24x CD Write Speed, this external cd drive for pc provides maximum 5Gbps data transfer speed without lag or distortion. Plug this usb dvd player/cd dvd burner into your USB port, your laptop wwil recognize it without stuttering and noise nor jammed discs
- Well-Designed - This compact and light external cd/dvd drive for laptop is solid enough to be durable and to hold its own weight down while it is spinning discs. With anti-skid rubber on the bottom, brushed texture shell, embedded usb cable slot, dual USB-A and USB-C connector, this cd reader for laptop/cd dvd burner can be easily carried and used anytime anywhere, no matter in the office, school, at home, or during a trip
- All Kinds of Disc - This dvd drive for laptop/cd is compatible with multiple discs (standard 120mm) including CD-ROM, CD-R, CD +/-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+/-RW, DVD-R DL, VCD-ROM discs. Unlike other CD/DVD players, this usb cdrom drive external gives the disc more clearance inside the disc bay so no more ruined discs due to extra-thick disc label issues! For some cd/dvd players for laptop, sometimes the disc would skip off the top of the drive and the burning or reading process would be ruined
- Plug & Play. Easy to use,powered by USB port. No external driver and Power needed. Just plug it into your USB port and the DVD driver will be detected. For the desktops, Please connect the device to the back USB port of the motherboard for normal use
- High Speed. Compatible with USB3. 0 and backwards compatible with USB2. 0 , bringing faster data transmission speed (up to a maximum of 5Gbps) and stable performance with strong fault tolerance
- Intelligent tech. Designed with eject button so that you never have to worry about your disc getting stuck inside this external CD/DVD drive. The copper mesh technology of this external component, you can be rest assured of stable data transmission
- Trendy design. Brushed texture shell brings trendy sight and touch enjoyment. Embedded cable design, worry- off cable missing any when and where
- Wide Compartibility. Ideal for various devices. It supports Windows XP/2003/Vista/7/8. 1/10, Linux, all version Mac OS system. Supports CD formats: CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW; DVD formats: DVD-ROM, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R DL, DVD+R DL; VCD, SVCD discs. Note: Blu-ray disc is NOT supported.
- Drive Type: External Ultra Slim Portable DVD Rewriter
- Interface: USB 2.0
- Buffer Memory: 0.75 MB
- Operating System: Windows 8 compatible
- CD-RW: 24X (write)
- CD-R/RW/ROM: 24X (read)
- 【High Writing and Reading Speed】Max 8x DVDR Write Speed and Max 24x CD Write Speed provide high writing and reading speed.
- 【Wide Compatible】This external dvd cd drive is compatible with Windows 98 / SE / ME / XP / Vista / Windows /10/8/7, Mac OS (8.6 to 10.14). And perfect for PC, Laptop, Comprehensive Computer, Internal PC hard disk reader. NOT COMPATIBLE with chromebook, blue-ray disks, cars, mobile phones, iPhones, iPads, Tablet, projectors, or TVs.
- 【Plug and Play Technology】Powered by USB port so just plug it into your USB port and the DVD driver will be detected. Don’t need to install software to set up driver.
- 【Advanced USB 3.0 Technology】 USB 3.0 provides fast data transfer speed and stable performance to record CD/ music/ videos/ install software or create CD/DVD backup disc (also compatible with USB 2.0).
- 【Ingenious Design】 This ultra-slim CD/DVD player for laptops equipped with an eject button so that you needn't worry about your disc getting stuck inside this external CD/DVD drive. Besides, the copper mesh technology of this external component, you can be rest assured of stable data transmission.
- 【PROBLEMS SOLUTIONS】If your Windows 10/11 laptop PC cannot recognize this CD/DVD drive,Please connect the extra power cable to solve the problem of unrecognized caused by insufficient power supply.or you might find a solution by searching for "AyPhnwzyuoI" on YouTube. There are repair methods shown in the video that may help If it is not solved, reach out to us for a driver troubleshooting tool, the download link is not allowed here.
- 【8 IN 1 Optical Drive】 Our portable DVD player is not only a CD/DVD reader, but also a CD/DVD burner, including 1 port USB 3.0 hub, 3 USB 2.0 port, SD or TF card reader and 1 USB-C Port, is perfect for transferring photo and video files from your camera by cards to your computer. (Note: SD and TF card cannot be used at the same time).
- 【Plug and Play】 The external DVD drive is powered by a USB 3.0 port, no internal DVD driver and external power required, is the perfect companion for laptop or desktop that can be used directly by plugging it into USB port. No need for additional drivers. PLUG and PLAY. The CD Rom external drive for laptop has strong error correction, anti-skid and quiet capabilities.
- 【Best Choice of Data Backup】Discs are designed to last up to 1,000 years, making them ideal for long-term data archiving and backup.a DVD Disce can store up to 4.7GB of data, equivalent to 2,000 photos/5 movies
- 【USB 3.0 HIGH-SPEED DATA TRANSFER】CD Burner with high speed USB 3.0 technology, many of the port cluster connectors are labelled by blue color and backward compatible with USB 2.0. USB 3.0 is an updated version of USB 2.0 which provides higher data transfer rates up to 5 Gigabits/S (625MB/S). It is approximately 10 times faster than USB 2.0. Besides that, The cd drive offers Max 8x DVDR Read Speed and Max 24x CD Write/Read speed, faster than you expected.
- 【Wide Compatibility Across Platforms】The optical drive supports reading and writing of CD±R/RW, CD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD. In addition, This USB-A and USB-C external disk drive supports different devices such as Macbook, iMac, Notebook, Desktop, and Laptop, etc. It's compatible with Windows 11/10 /8 /7 /XP , Vista 7 / 8, Linux, Mac OS10.6 or above. (Cars, TVs, Tablets, Smartphones, Projectors and Blu-ray disk are not supported；Windows 11 requires media player and network).
- 【Perfect After-sales Protection】Our external cd/dvd drive for laptop have been tested repeated in the harsh environment of the laboratory, and have obtained the Market and many customers. We treat quality issues with zero tolerance, We offer 2 years after-sales warranty, any questions feel free to contact us on Amazon
- 【5 in 1 DVD Drive】External CD/DVD drive for laptop has an independent SD/TF card slot, 2 USB ports and micro USB ports. It can transfer photos, videos or musics directly from SD / TF card into the computer. NOTE: SD card and TF card can't work together at the same time, only choose one each time.
- 【Read and Write】External DVD drive for pc supports any devices of usb or type c, support to read CD, VCD, SVCD, CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW and burn CD+/-RW, DVD+/-RW, etc. Max DVD-ROM drive reading speed 8X; Max CD-ROM drive burning speed 24X and DVD drive reading speed 8X; Max CD drive reading speed 24X
- 【Wide Compatibility】External CD drive is compatible with Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ XP, Linux and all versions of Mac OS. You can use external CD DVD drive on almost all computers such as MacBook Pro/Air, iMac, Mac Mini, Laptop, and Desktop, PC. Please note: This DVD drive external can not work for iPad/ Tablet/ Projector/ TV/ Chrome OS/ Car/ Smart Phone
- 【Plug and Play】External DVD drive equipped with USB 3.0 Type-C two kinds of connectors, just plug it into the USB 3.0, USB-C port, this portable CD drive will be recognized by your laptop or desktop computer automatically, no need for external driver and power supply
- 【Ultra Slim & Portable Design】This CD drive for mac is very slim and lightweight, the embedded data cable is easy to use and organize, pop-up button and disc tray design makes it convenient to read or write discs. Rubber pad prevents sliding on the desktop and unique sleek pleasing form factor and portable, you can easily carry and use this slim external DVD drive anytime anywhere
- 【After-Sales Service】BUNUD DVD burner provides considering service and 1 year quality guarantee. If you have any questions about this CD/DVD player for laptop, please contact us, we will reply you within 24 hours
- 【Plug & Play External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop】If your laptop or desktop computer has no built-in optical drive, this external CD/DVD drive is a great solution. Just plug the data cable (stored underneath the drive) into your laptop or desktop PC > It will be recognized by your PC automatically (Mac will detect and show the icon after inserting a disc) > Insert your CDs or DVDs > Use a media player, burning, or ripping software to read, write, and rip your CDs and DVDs—no complicated setup is needed, as easily as an internal CD/DVD drive. (Scroll down for recommended software and detailed usage steps)
- 【What Can I Do with this Drive?】 It's not just a CD/DVD-ROM reader, but also a CD/DVD burner, writer, rewriter, and ripper. Utilize media player software such as Windows Media Player, Apple Music, or VLC Player to play DVDs, music CDs, or self-burned discs. Use burning software to write music, videos, photos, and files to blank CDs or DVDs, and import content from discs to your computer with ripping software. This USB CD DVD external drive is also ideal for installing software, operating systems, games, and more, providing a comprehensive solution for all your CD and DVD needs
- 【Wide Compatibility】This USB external DVD drive for laptop PC is effortlessly compatible with Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ Vista/ XP/ 98/ SE/ ME/ 2000, Linux, and Mac OS X (media player and network required for Windows 11/12). It seamlessly complements a variety of laptops, notebooks, desktops, and all-in-one computers from renowned brands like HP, LG, SAMSUNG, ASUS, DELL, Lenovo, ThinkPad, Microsoft, Apple MacBook, and more. It supports reading and writing CD±R, CD±RW, CD-ROM, DVD±R, DVD±RW, DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD discs. (Note: Blu-ray and 4K discs are not supported, and it cannot work with ChromeOS, TV, Car, Projector, Phone, iPad/Tablet, PS4/5, Xbox)
- 【Longer Data Cable & Separate Power Cord】Featuring USB 3.0 high-speed technology, this USB disk drive achieves data speeds up to 5 Gbps (10 times faster than USB 2.0) and supports maximum read/write speeds of 24x CD and 8x DVD speeds for smooth and efficient performance. Its 16.5-inch detachable data cable, with both USB 3.0 Type-A and Type-C connectors, resolves short cable issues found in most optical drives and enables direct connection to various computers without the need for adapters or hubs. To prevent power shortage, it is recommended to connect the separate power cable to a USB power bank/adapter to ensure sufficient power supply. (Note: The power cord can not be used alone.)
- 【Integrated USB HUB & SD Card Slot】This external CD/DVD drive for PC can not only read, burn, and copy CDs and DVDs, but also be used as a USB hub, including 2x USB-A input ports and 1x SD/micro-SD card slot, compatible with the external hard drive, wired mouse, or keyboard, flash drive, and other USB accessories, the SD/TF card reader is perfect for transferring photos and video files by your camera from cards to your computer. More importantly, unlike other similar devices, this drive supports the simultaneous use of disc reading/writing functions and all expansion ports without any restrictions.
- 【Excellent Performance】As a professional manufacturer with 10 years of experience dedicated to producing reliable-quality external CD/DVD drives. Each ROOFULL USB CD/DVD drive is equipped with a 100% brand-new movement that features strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference ability, guaranteeing stable, quiet, and smooth operation. In addition, all CD DVD players will undergo strict testing before shipment to ensure the best condition. If the drive you receive does not work for any reason, just reach out to us for tech support or free replacement. (We offer up to 2 years of comprehensive after-sales, ensuring your satisfaction and peace of mind)
- 【Compact & Portable DVD Player】This compact CD/DVD adapter boasts a slim and lightweight design, making it effortlessly portable in your laptop bag—an ideal companion for home, office, or on the go. Consider it a thoughtful gift for CD and DVD enthusiasts in your life. Complemented by an easily manageable embedded data cable. The skip-proof rubber pad ensures stability on any desktop. 【Package Contain】1* Multifunction CD/DVD drive + 1* USB 3.0 & USB-C Data Cable + 1* USB to 2.5mm Power Supply Cord + 1* User Manual + 1* SD to micro-SD card adapter. (Note: The other accessories shown in the pictures are for functional demonstration only and are not included.)
- 【Best Thing to Know Before Buying】① Please NOTE that this drive is incompatible with Chromebooks, mobile phones, iPhones, iPads, cars, projectors, TVs, or Blu-ray discs. ② Due to macOS limitations, the tray cannot open via the button after playing and burning a disc. To eject a disc on Mac computers, right-click on the desktop icon and select "eject," or choose "File" > "Eject" from the menu. ③ Plug and play means no manual driver installation, but software is still required to play or burn discs
How to choose a good external cd dvd writers
Does the idea of finding a fantastic external cd dvd writers make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in external cd dvd writers. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top external cd dvd writers products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top external cd dvd writers on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top external cd dvd writers brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top external cd dvd writers based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the external cd dvd writers were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good external cd dvd writers, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your external cd dvd writers.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting external cd dvd writers for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our external cd dvd writers. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what external cd dvd writers should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on external cd dvd writers.
