Are you navigating the complex world of best usb cd drive? Our team of experts has left no stone unturned in researching and testing the leading products in this field. We’ve conducted extensive comparisons, assessing each product in real-life situations as well as in controlled settings, to truly understand what sets each one apart.
In our thorough analysis, we focus on the core aspects of every best usb cd drive product. We rigorously evaluate their defining features, overall efficacy, and value for the price, providing you with a perspective that’s both clear-cut and fair. Our evaluation process is thorough, with a spotlight on Build Quality, Functionality, and Economic Value. We appreciate that everyone has distinct needs and financial considerations, and our reviews are designed to help you find the best usb cd drive that not only meets but also surpasses your expectations.
Editor’s Note: This review was refreshed in March 2024 to bring you the most recent information, including several new alternatives, ensuring our advice stays relevant and comprehensive in the dynamic world of best usb cd drive products.
Top Products for best usb cd drive
1. Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 , Black
Key Features:
- Dvdrw (R DL)/ DVD-RAM
- 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVD) read speed
- 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVDR)/ 6x (DVDR DL) write speed
2. LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +/-RW External Drive with M-DISC Support – Black
Key Features:
- 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
3. ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive USB 3.0 & USB-C CD Burner DVD Player Reader Writer Optical Disc Drive with Carrying Case for Laptop Mac MacBook Pro/Air, Windows 11/10/8/7, Linux PC
Key Features:
- 【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 (on the back of the drive) into your computer’s USB-A or USB-C port, and insert your CDs or DVDs, it will be recognized automatically, you can then use a media player, burning, or ripping software to read, write, or digitize your discs, no complex settings, plug and play!
- 【Multipurpose】This is not just an external CD and DVD ROM (reader), but also a fast CD & DVD burner (writer/ rewriter/ recorder) and ripper. With this CD/DVD adapter, you can use media player app (e.g. Windows media player, Apple Music/iTunes, VLC Player, etc.) to read your collections of music CDs, movie DVDs, or self-burned discs, use burning software to burn mp3 music, video, photos, or data to blank CDs or DVDs, or use a ripping software to import music, video, photos, or files from CDs/DVDs to your computer. Furthermore, you can also use it to install software, games, and systems from CD or DVD discs.
- 【Wide Compatibility】This USB external CD/DVD drive for PC is compatible with Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ Vista/ XP/98/SE/ME/2000, Linux, and Mac OS. 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. Enjoy support for reading and writing CD±R/RW, CD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD disks.
- 【High-Speed 2-In-1 USB 3.0 Data Cable】The data cable embedded in the back of the drive has USB 3.0 type-A and type-C two kinds of connectors on the end, making it easier to connect different laptop or desktop computers without an adapter required and no worries about losing the data cable. USB 3.0 is an updated version of USB 2.0 that provides faster data transfer rates of up to 5 Gigabits/s, approximately 10 times faster than USB 2.0. If the CD drive can’t get enough power through a single data cable, use the attached power supply cord together to get extra power from a USB port on your PC or a USB power adapter. (Note: The power cord is not a data cable, avoid using it independently.)
- 【Excellent Performance】As a professional manufacturer with 9 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 go through strict testing processes before shipment to ensure the best condition. 【Tips】If the drive you received cannot work with your PC for any reason, just reach out to us for tech support, replacement, or a full refund directly, no worry about the time-limited return window【2 year-long warranty】
- 【Slim and Portable DVD Player】This slim external optical player is designed to be compact and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go (home, office, or on the go). It comes with a thicker protective storage carrying case sleeve that ensures your device is protected from dust, water, and drops. It’s also a good idea as a gift to hobbyists who collect CDs and DVDs. If you don’t need the carrying case, you can find the product without it by searching for “B07C1VP88H” on Amazon.
- 【Best Thing to Know Before Buying】①This USB disc drive is designed for use with Windows, Linux, and Mac PCs. It is not compatible with Chromebooks, mobile phones, iPhones, iPads, cars, projectors, TVs, or Blu-ray discs. ② To eject a disc on Mac computers, simply right-click on the desktop icon and select “eject,” or choose “File” > “Eject” from the menu. Please note that the eject button on the drive may not function due to macOS limitations. ③ If your computer cannot recognize this device, please try different USB ports on your computer, or reach out to us for troubleshooting (100% can be solved)
4. External DVD Drive USB 3.0 TYPE C USB C Portable CD/DVD +/-RW Disk Drive External DVD Player for Laptop CD/DVD ROM Burner Reader Compatible with Desktop PC Windows Linux OS Apple Mac
Key Features:
- Wide Compatibility – This external cd drive for laptop is compatible with laptops or desktops with Mac OS, Window OS or Linux OS. The external dvd drive is also widely compatible with a lot of disc formats: CD±R/RW, CD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, VCD and SVCD. For better connection, it’s recommended to plug the dvd player for laptop into the mother board port on the rear, not front for desktop users. BTW, it doesn’t support TVs, vehicles, Chrome OS, iPad, Tablet, projector, radio, blue-ray disks.
- High Speed – The external dvd drive for laptop TYPE-A and USB-Cdual connector is suitable for different computer model and personal need. The USB 3.0 cable of the usb dvd drive external provides high speed and backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0, which enriches your choice. Max speed of the cd rom external drive for laptop for reading and writing CDs is 24X, and for DVDs is 8X. This dvd burner provides max 5Gbps data tranmission speed.
- Wide Application – You will find that owning this dvd drive will help in many ways. It can play and burn CDs and DVDs. Specifically, when the download version of a movie was more expensive than the disk, you could choose disk and play it on the usb cd drive. You could transfer the music on the CDs to iTunes through this cd drive. You can use this dvd drive usb external to download some software or games from disks. You can convert digitized data to CDs or DVDs format.
- Plug and Play – The external cd drive for mac is easy to use. Plug the cd drive external usb into your laptop, then a tiny box pops up asking which program you want to use to run the external disk drive with (like Windows Media Player). Push the button to open the cd player for laptop, put the disk in, then close the disk drive. CD’s play automatically with zero issues and zero lag.
- Other Details – The built in USB-C & USB 3.0 connectors of the disk drive are built into the cable so there’s no possibility of losing it. The cd burner for laptop with stable performance, sleek pleasing form factor, and low-noise is portable and won’t get your precious disks stuck.
5. ORIGBELIE External CD DVD Drive, Ultra Slim CD Burner USB 3.0 with 4 USB Ports and 2 TF/SD Card Slots, Optical Disk Drive for Laptop Mac, PC Windows 11/10/8/7 Linux OS
Key Features:
- 【EXTERNAL CD DRIVE FOR LAPTOP】- Considering that most of the latest laptops have not been added to the built-in CD/DVD drive, so you can’t insert CDs or DVDs directly into your laptop to listen to music, watch movies, data backup or install systems. The external CD drive that ORIGBELIE newly released is a good solution. No need for additional drivers. PLUG and PLAY. The CD Rom external drive for laptop has strong error correction, anti-skid and quiet capabilities.
- 【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 colour and backward compatible with USB 2.0 / 1.1. 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.
- 【SUPPORT CD & DVD BURNING】- 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)
- 【8 IN 1 USB HUB】- Our external drive can not only burn and read CD DVD, but also can be used as a external laptop usb hub, including 1 USB 3.0 port, 3 USB 2.0 port, 1 TF slot ,1 SD card slot and 1USB C Port, compatible with usb hard drive, limited/wireless mouse & keyboard, computer radiator and other usb computer accessories, The card slot are perfect for transferring photo and video files by your camera from cards to your computer(Note: SD port and TF port cannot be used at the same time)
- 【ULTRA SLIM & PORTABLE DESIGN】- This external disk drive is very slim and lightweight and the embedded data cable is easy to use and organize, skip-proof rubber pad prevents sliding on the desktop, so you can easily carry in your laptop bag ideal for home, office, or anywhere you go. It is also a good idea to give it as a gift to hobbyists who collect CDs and DVDs. (We provide a 2-year after-sales warranty.)
- Abandoning optical drives allows computer manufacturers to create thinner and more compact laptops. Most of the new notebooks on the market now do not built-in CD-ROM drive, and some only have a limited number of USB ports. But we may have a large collection of 90s CDs, and we want to put them in a laptop to feel the nostalgia or insert a DVD collection to watch movies. Or, you may just need a cd/dvd drive for emergencies, such as data transfer, system backup, etc.
- Fortunately, We have already done all the work for you. This multi-function external usb disc drive that we launched is not only a cd/dvd reader, but also It has the function of cd/dvd burner. At the same time, it is equipped with a variety of USB ports and card slots to meet all your peripheral equipment needs — all for a decent price. This will allow you to free up more budget to buy the latest laptops that are comfortable, smooth, and have powerful processors and graphics cards.
- THESE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING – This dvd rw drive can only start its job after it is connected to a laptop or a desktop, so it is not compatible with cars, projectors, tablets, ipads, mobile phones, etc. In addition, it is compatible with windows11/10/8/7, mac os and Linux. NOT COMPATIBLE with Chrombook, Surface, Blue-ray.
6. Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop USB 3.0 CD/DVD Player Portable +/-RW Burner CD ROM Reader Rewriter Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro Macbook Linux
Key Features:
- 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
- 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. For the desktops, Please connect the device to the back USB port of the motherboard for normal use
7. acer External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 Type-C CD DVD +/-RW Drive Burner DVD Player, External CD ROM Reader Writer Optical Drive Compatible with Laptop PC Mac MacBook Windows 11/10/8.1/7 Linux
Key Features:
- 【Wide Compatibility】 This portable DVD drive offers seamless integration with a range of computing devices. Whether you’re using a laptop, PC, or desktop, this drive is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8.1, and 10, as well as Linux and all versions of MAC OS. It’s an ideal choice for both Apple Mac and Macbook Pro users, ensuring broad usability across different platforms.
- 【Plug & Play Convenience】 Get started without any hassle. This drive requires no external drivers or power supply. Simply plug it into a USB port, and it’s ready for immediate detection and use. This feature ensures a stress-free setup, perfect for both work and entertainment purposes.
- 【Advanced USB 3.0 Technology】 Experience the benefits of advanced USB 3.0 technology with this drive. It offers rapid data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, ensuring efficient performance. It’s also backward compatible with USB2.0. Enjoy smooth playback and burning of your media without any lag or distortion.
- 【High-Speed Performance】 This drive supports a variety of disc formats and delivers impressive speeds. It has a maximum DVD read speed of 8X and a CD read speed of 24X. It also supports a max CD burning speed of 8X, compatible with formats like DVD+R, DVD-R, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW.
- 【Portable & Sleek Design】 Designed with portability in mind, this drive features a slim, lightweight body and an embedded cable design, making it easy to carry. It’s the perfect travel companion for laptops that lack internal drives, offering convenience on the go.
8. ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive, CD Burner USB 3.0 & USB-C with 2 SD/TF Card Reader and 4 USB Ports, DVD/CD-ROM Optical Disk Drive Player Writer for Laptop Mac, PC Windows 11/10/8/7, Linux OS
Key Features:
- 【Plug & Play CD/DVD Drive for Laptop PC】Since many modern laptops and desktop computers lack an internal CD/DVD drive, this ROOFULL B21-Y USB external DVD drive is an excellent solution for reading, writing, and digitizing CDs and DVDs, as easy as a built-in optical drive. Simply plug the USB type-A or type-C connector on the data cable into your computer, insert your CDs or DVDs, and it will be automatically recognized, you can then use our recommended or your current media player, burning, or ripping software to read, burn, and rip your CD and DVDs.
- 【Not Just a CD-ROM】It’s not only a reader, but also a DVD and CD burner (writer) and ripper, you can use a corresponding media player/ burning/ ripping software to play movies DVDs/ music CDs, burn mp3 music, video, photos, files to blank CDs or DVDs, import (also called rip or digitize) music, video, photos, or files from CDs or DVDs to your computer, install software, system, games, and everything else related to CD/DVD. It supports almost all discs like CD±R/RW, CD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD disks.
- 【Wide Compatibility】This USB 3.0 external CD drive burner is compatible with all brands of Windows 11/10/ 8.1/ 7/Vista/ XP or Linux laptops and desktop PCs (including HP, LG, Dell, Lenovo, Thinkpad, MSI, Samsung, Mircosoft, etc.), and all versions of Apple Mac computers (Including M1 and M2). For Mac computers, to eject a disc, please right-click on the icon on the desktop and select “eject”, or choose “File” > “Eject” button. The eject button on the drive is disabled due to macOS limitations.【Kindly Note】This drive can not work with Chromebook, Android phone/tablet, TV, iPad, iPhone, projectors, trucks, cars, and Blu-ray discs.
- 【Additional Expansion Interface】It can not only read and write CDs and DVDs, but also be used as a USB hub, including 1* USB 3.0 ports, 3* USB 2.0 ports, 1*SD, and 1*micro-SD card slot, you can connect the external hard drive, wired mouse or keyboard, flash drive, or other accessories, the SD/TF card reader are perfect for transferring photos and video files by your camera from cards to your computer. (Note: the USB flash drive, power adapter, receiver, and SD/TF cards on the picture are not included!)
- 【High Speed 2-In-1 USB 3.0 Data Cable】USB 3.0 is an updated version of USB 2.0 that provides faster data transfer rates of up to 5 Gigabits/s, approximately 10 times faster than USB 2.0. The built-in data cable (on the device back) with USB 3.0 type-A and type-C two kinds of connectors that make it easier to plug this device into different Mac and Windows computers without an adapter required and also no worries about losing the data cable.【Kindly Note】The USB 3.0 data cable is on the back of the drive.
- 【No Power Shortage Issues Anymore】In addition to the USB 3.0 data cable, we also prepared an additional USB to micro USB power supply cable, in case the USB ports on your computer cannot supply enough power for this device through the single data cable. You can use the power supply cord together, and get extra power from another USB port on your PC or a 5V USB power adapter. If there is no power shortage, you can remove this power cord. (Tips: The power cord cannot transmit data, please do not use it alone)
- 【Premium Quality & Reliable Performance】Each ROOFULL USB external CD/DVD drive is equipped with a 100% brand-new movement that ensures reliable performance. It features strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference ability, guaranteeing stable, quiet, and smooth operation when reading, burning, and ripping CDs and DVDs. Additionally, it won’t damage your discs, providing you with a worry-free experience.
- 【Hassle-Free Shopping】As a professional optical drive manufacturer with 9 years of experience dedicated to producing top-quality external optical drives, in additional, each device will go through strict testing processes before shipment. If the CD/DVD drive you received cannot work with your computer for any reason, just reach out to us for tech support, a new device, or a full refund, and we will be responsible for you with no time-limited return window【2 year-long warranty】
9. YOTUO External DVD Drive, Portable USB 3.0 CD +/-RW Drive DVD Player for ROM Rewriter Burner for Laptop Desktop, Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11 Mac MacBook Pro/Air
Key Features:
- 【Plug and Play】Easy to use, the external DVD drive powered by USB 3.0 port, it does not require any driver or power supply. Just plug it into your USB port or Typle-C port, touch the inductive open button, insert the disc and the disc is instantly detected and ready to use immediately.
- 【Premium Quality & Reliable Performance】This USB DVD drive is made of high-quality materials, shockproof, low noise. The high-speed USB 3.0 CD burner with low impedance and anti-interference capability, ensuring stable, quiet, and smooth reading, burning, and ripping process of CDs/DVDs. You can use this external dvd burner to read and write CDs and DVDs quietly without stuttering and noise, and won’t damage your discs.
- 【USB 3.0 High-Speed Data Transfer】The external cd/dvd drive for laptop equipped with faster USB 3.0 updated version, that provides higher data transfer rates of up to 5 Gigabits/s. Maximum DVD reading speed of 8x; maximum CD reading speed of 24x and maximum CD burning speed of 8x. Gives you faster data transfer speeds (up to 5Gbps) and plays music and movies without lag or distortion.
- 【Easy to Carry with Stylish Aappearance】Portable usb dvd drive external. Embedded cable design with slim lightweight body, it is stylish simplicity and scratch-resistant appearance. This portable dvd players is only 25cm thick and weighs about 0.4kg. It can easily fit in your travel bag, carry it with you and connect it anywhere you go.
- 【Extensive compatibility】It supports Windows XP/2003/Vista/7/8/10/11, Linux, all versions of Mac OS systems. And perfect for PC, Laptop, Comprehensive Computer, Internal PC hard disk reader. Compatible with multiple discs including CD-ROM, CD-R, CD +/-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+/-RW, DVD-R DL, and VCD-ROM discs.
10. Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple
Key Features:
- 【PLUG & PLAY External DVD Drive】CD drive external USB, no need for external driver and Power supply. Just plug it into your USB port, then our Amicool External dvd burner will be detected. USB 3.0 external cd dirve is a perfect companion for computers without the internal drive.
- 【HIGH SPEED USB 3.0 & Type-C】Amicool CD ROM External Drive adopted advanced burning technology, supported DVD+R, DVD, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW. With USB3.0 and Type C Interface. Max DVD read speed 8x; Max CD read speed 24x and max CD burn speed 8x. bringing you faster data transmission speed (max 5Gbps), plays music and movies without lag or distortion.
- 【Wide Compatibility】External CD/DVD drive for laptop PC desktop Linux OS Apple Mac MacBook Pro. cd burner dvd player compatible with Windows 10 /8.1/7/XP/Vista, Linux, all versions of Mac OS. Ideal for APPLE / DELL / SONY / SAMSUNG / ASUS / ACER / HP and other brands notebook, Ultrabook, PC, desktop that without drive hardware. Not for chrome / tv / car / tablet
- 【Portable CD drive – Slim & compact】Embedded cable design with slim lightweight body, enough fashionable and scratch-proof exterior. This CD/DVD driver can be slipped in your travel bag, take it with you to anywhere and hooked up at any time.
- 【Multifunctional Optical Drive】Adopted intelligent burning technology, you can read/write/burn your disc or Interrupt recording at your ease. Pop-up button and disc tray design makes it convenient to read or write discs. For desktop, connect it to usb port at the back panel.
Essential Buyer’s Guide for Selecting the Perfect best usb cd drive
Identify Your Requirements
Pinpoint what you specifically need from the best usb cd drive. Understand the features and functionalities that are most critical for your use-case to narrow down your choices.
Inspect Product Quality
Always prioritize the quality of the best usb cd drive. High-quality items tend to last longer and provide better performance. Look for products with strong materials, good build quality, and positive user feedback.
Assess Brand Reputation
The brand’s history can tell you a lot about the quality and reliability of the best usb cd drive. A reputable brand usually guarantees a certain level of quality and customer service.
Vendor Credibility
Consider the credibility of the seller or manufacturer. A reputable vendor or manufacturer often correlates with better customer service and product reliability.
User Reviews and Ratings
Take the time to read through user reviews and ratings. They offer valuable insights into how the best usb cd drive performs in real-world scenarios and can highlight any potential issues.
Longevity and Maintenance
Consider how long the best usb cd drive lasts under normal use. A product that requires less maintenance and is more durable is typically a better investment.
Usability and Convenience
Ensure the best usb cd drive is easy to use and fits comfortably into your routine or lifestyle. User-friendly products enhance your experience and are more likely to satisfy your needs.
Compare Price to Value
Evaluate if the best usb cd drive’s price is reflective of its value. Sometimes paying a little extra upfront can save you money in the long run due to better quality or features.
Product Availability
Check the availability of the best usb cd drive. Products that are easily accessible tend to have better after-sales support and availability of parts or accessories.
Comprehensive Comparison
Compare different best usb cd drive products against each other. Look at each option’s features, benefits, and drawbacks to make an informed decision.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
A solid warranty and reliable customer support can greatly enhance your experience with the best usb cd drive. These factors can also provide peace of mind and save costs in the future.
Stay Updated
The market is always evolving. Keep an eye on new releases and developments to ensure you choose a best usb cd drive that remains relevant and up to date.
Make Your Final Choice
After thorough consideration, choose the best usb cd drive that best meets your criteria and expectations, balancing all factors like quality, usability, and cost.
Our reviews and guides are meticulously curated to assist you in navigating the selection process, helping you make a choice that’s both satisfying and well-informed.