Getting yourself an external DVD drive is an excellent way to make sure you will be able to enjoy your favorite movies and music without having to worry about taking up more space on your computer. These optical drives are usually very compact and slim, which means that they will fit very well with your laptop and are very easy to carry around as you travel. They are also a great way to enhance your computer at a reasonable cost.
But given the popularity of external DVD drives, there will be a wide variety of options to pick from in the market. However, the good news is that you do not have to be an IT guru to pick a good one, as here we review 10 top-quality models to give you some recommendations.
List of Top 10 Best External DVD Drives in 2024
LG Electronics External Drive (Gold) GP65NG60
- 14mm Height Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive
- USB 2.0 interface (up to 480Mbits/s, USB 3.0 Compatible)
- Max 8x DVDR Write Speed
- Max 24x CD Write Speed.sustained transfer rate:11.08 Mbytes/s (8x) max.|CD-ROM|DVD-ROM|3.6 MB/s (24x) max
- OPERATING SYSTEMS : Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2003, Mac OS X(10.7.5)
If you are looking for a compact and quality external DVD drive to enhance your entertainment experience, then this is the ideal choice. It comes in a slim design that comes with exceptional read and writes speeds that will serve you well. Also, the unit supports USB 2.0 interface, which will give you exceptional performance. It is also compatible with USB 3.0, which is an indication of the unit’s broader range of data-device compatibility.
It also has a compact build, which takes less of your limited space. Also, the unit is compatible with several operating systems and uses Cyberlink software for added convenience. It also offers you smooth functioning with almost no noise.
Conclusion: The drive offers you a slim design that will offer you a high-speed sustained transfer rate. Its compact design makes it a portable unit that will enhance your convenience.
Pros
- Slim design
- Versatile
- Very lightweight.
- Excellent speeds
Cons
- Limited durability
LG Electronics External Drive (Black) GP60NB50
- 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)
With the all-black body and the LG logo, this external DVD drive offers you style and character. It also offers you a read-and-write speed that makes it one of the best external DVD drives available on the market. These speeds also mean that the USB 2.0 interface will give you exceptional performance. The drive is also compatible with USB 3.0, which shows the broader range of data device compatibility that the unit offers you.
It also comes in a compact but effective frame that occupies limited space. Also, the unit is compatible with both PCs and Macs, which means it can work with all types of computer systems. It also offers you smooth functioning with almost no noise.
Conclusion: The drive offers you a compact and lightweight build, which allows you to take it anywhere you need it. It is a portable and versatile unit that works for both play and work settings.
Pros
- Compact and stylish design
- High compatibility
- Lightweight
- Excellent speed
Cons
- The all-plastic build is not durable.
VersionTECH. USB Ultra Slim External DVD Drive
- 【WIDE COMPATIBILITY】✈The drive compatible for Windows 98 / SE / ME / 2000 / XP / Vista / Windows 10/8/7, all Version MAC OS. Specially compatible for Apple Samsung ASUS HP Dell Sony Acer and other Macbook, Ultrabook, Netbook or Laptop PC without drive hardware.NOTE: NOT compatible with Blu-ray Discs. Cannot burn DVDs.
- 【PLUG ＆ PLAY】✈It is Powered by the USB port, no eject button, slot-loading; No driver program or extra power supply required. NOTE: Blank cd is unformatted, please download a software-NERO and finish the setting before burning.
- 【ULTRTHIN DESIGN】✈Ultra-slim portable DVD drive, lightweight, it’s convenient to use and carry whether at home or travelling, which only needs a little space in your bag. Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 7.1 x 1.3 inches.
- 【INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY】✈Embedded cable design, made with premium wire drawing material of shockproof, low noise, anti-interference and high durability. works well in burning, writing and reading.
- 『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.
If you are out for a reliable and quality external DVD drive, then this is the right choice to burn your CDs or watch your movies and music. It is a device that is designed for MacBook users, but its compatibility does not limit its use. Apart from the MAC OS, the unit can also be used on several operating systems and supports even DOS and system recovery.
The unit comes in a compact design and comes with a buffer underrun protection technology, which adds to the functionality and convenience of the drive. Also, it has fast burning and reading speeds and does not require any software to work.
Conclusion: The external DVD drive has a sleek, compact design, which makes the unit so lightweight that you can carry it around comfortably in your backpack and use it at your convenience.
Pros
- Specially designed for MacBook
- Buffer protection technology
- Excellent compatibility
- Portable
Cons
- Does not have an eject button
- Discs might jam
Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316
- Dvdrw (R DL)/ DVD-RAM
- 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVD) read speed
- 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVDR)/ 6x (DVDR DL) write speed
- English (Publication Language)
This is a highly efficient external DVD drive that comes in a sleek design that is appropriate for all settings. Its all-black frame is also a positive when it comes to building and design. Also, the unit has excellent RAM and memory, which makes it a versatile device. It can also be considered one of the top-rated External DVD drives based on USB storage. This means that it is compatible with most computer systems.
The external drive provides excellent speed and quality in bot burning and reading. Besides, it also offers you an easy plug-and-play option, which saves you from having to go through any additional setups. Also, it has pre-loaded CyberLink software, which makes the unit user-friendly.
Conclusion: The external DVD drive offers you an excellent disc-playing and burning experience, which allows you easy access to all types of data. It is also a portable unit due to its small frame and lightweight.
Pros
- Compact black frame
- Excellent write and reading speed
- Great RAM and memory
- Excellent compatibility
Cons
- Noisy operation
SEA TECH 1 External USB DVD
- Premium external DVD super-muti drive
- 1mm anybody aluminum casing
- Mac & Window PC compatible
- Both USB and C port cable included
This is one of the best external DVD drives if you own a Mac OS device. It offers you enhanced durability because of its aluminum frame. As a result, the unit is resistant to damage. It also comes with user-friendly software for your convenience.
Another great feature of this external DVD drive is that you will not need any additional drivers for it to function. All you need to do is just take it from the box and start using it. Also, the drive has a white body, which can be appealing. It is also lightweight and does not require any external power sources, which makes it a very portable device.
Conclusion: This is a very portable unit due to its lightweight and compact frame. Also, the ability to power itself offers you added convenience.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great aesthetics
- Durable aluminum frame
- User-friendly
Cons
- Sharp edges on the frame
ROOFULL External DVD Drive
- 【External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop PC】Considering that most of the latest computers have not been equipped with an internal CD/DVD drive, this ROOFULL USB 3.0 external CD/DVD drive is a good solution for reading and writing your CDs and DVDs, as easy as a built-in optical disk drive. No extra driver program is required. Simply connect it to your laptop or desktop PC, insert your CDs or DVDs, and it will be automatically recognized. You can then use your preferred media player, burning or ripping software to read, write, and rip your CDs 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】Compatible with Multi-OS including Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ Vista/ XP, Linux, and all versions of Mac OS. You can use this ROOFULL USB CD/DVD player on most computers including Apple MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, Windows, and Linux laptops and desktop computers from HP / LG / Dell / Acer / ASUS / Lenovo / Thinkpad / Samsung / Microsoft.【Note】This device can't work with Chromebooks, TVs, tablets, iPads, mobile phones, projectors, trucks, and cars.
- 【USB 3.0 High-Speed Data Transfer】USB 3.0 is an updated version of USB 2.0 that provides higher data transfer rates of up to 5 Gigabits/s, approximately 10 times faster than USB 2.0. It comes with a USB 3.0 Type-C adapter, so it is convenient to switch between USB type-A and type-C ports on your notebook or desktop computer (Tips: It is recommended to plug directly into the computer USB port or a self-powered USB hub in case of a power shortage)
- 【Premium Quality & Reliable Performance】Our 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.
This plug-and-play external DVD drive offers you impressive compatibility with most computer systems. You just need to plug it into your computer’s USB port and start. It also supports USB 3.0 and comes with a sleek and powerful design, which makes sure that you can use it without worrying about your computer’s speed.
The unit is not only affordable, but it also comes with a padded neoprene carrying case. Also, it has a designated slot for the cable in the back, which keeps it safe and out of the way. It also offers you high-speed transfers via USB 3.0 and comes with the ability to read and write most CD and DVD formats.
Conclusion: With this external DVD drive, you have a very slim and compact design, which makes it easy to carry around.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Compact design
- Comes with a protective carrying case
- Built-in slot for the cable
- Effective transfer speeds
Cons
- Poorly designed eject button
- Incompatible with Chromebook
Kingbox External DVD Drive
- 【PLUG AND PLAY】: The Kingbox External USB Slim DVD Optical Drive features in plug and play design, no need to install driver program, easy to use; it is powered by your notebook's or desktop's USB port, so no batteries or power cords are necessary.
- 【HIGH SPEED】: This premium external optical drive is equipped with high speed USB 3.0 Type-A and Type-C interface, compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0. It has best disc burning and disc playing solution with stable performance, noise reduction and strong error correction ability. The speed is 8x for DVD or 24x for CD.
- 【GREAT PERFORMANCE】: Embedded cable design, made with premium wire drawing material of shockproof, low noise, anti-interference and high durability. Kingbox DVD drives works well in burning, writing.
- 【PORTABLE & SAFE】: Ultra thin and light weight, the short cables can be hidden at the bottom, you'll be ready to play or burn your favorite DVD or CD at home in even a small work space. Or, place the drive in your bag to take this functionality with you.
- 【WIDE COMPATIBILITY】: Kingbox external CD/DVD optical drive compatible with Windows 10/7/8/XP/Vista/2003 and all versions of MAC OS, works with Apple Macbook Series, Samsung/ASUS/HP/Dell/Sony/Acer/other brands of Notebook, Ultrabook, PC or desktops(Warm Tips: New and Old Package Randomly Sent).
This external DVD drive offers you an easy-to-use plug-and-play design, which means you do not have to install any drivers. It is also powered by your computer’s USB port, which adds to its convenience. Also, it offers you impressive compatibility with most computer systems. It also includes a high-speed USB 3.0 interface and offers stable reading and writing performance.
The unit also has a shockproof bubble-padded interior, which protects your unit from damage. Also, it comes in a compact design that makes it extremely portable, which adds to your convenience.
Conclusion: The unit is also lightweight and ultra-thin, and it has an embedded cable design, as well as a durable build. With the ability to hide the cables, you will be able to play or burn your discs at any place or setting.
Pros
- Durable build
- Embedded cable
- Portable
- Excellent compatibility
Cons
- Quality concerns
IVKEY Slim Portable External CD DVD Drive
- 【Usb 3. 0 high speed 】- USB external DVD Drive with advanced USB3. 0 technology faster data transmission speed more stable data transmission. Also compatible with USB 2. 0, USB1. 1.
- 【Compatible Systems 】 - The external cd/dvd drive for Laptop Works compatible with windowsXP/2003/Vista/7/8. 1/10, Linux and all version Mac OS systems, supports any PC, Ultrabook and Netbook.
- 【Optical Drive function 】- portable external CD drive for laptop with brand new chip supports all major DVD, support CD-R, CD-ROM, CD+/-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+/-RW, DVD-R DL, VCD. Strong error-correcting ability, anti-shock and noise reduction technology, low power consumption.
- 【Easy To Install & Use】 -Plug and play, no extra drive, no need extra power supply, no need for any additional software. Powered by the USB 3. 0 port, just plug it Into your USB port and the dvd driver will be detected.
- 【100% high quality】 - external CD drive embedded cable design, Made with premium wire drawing material, offers 1 Year and we 100% stand behind our products. Any questions, just contact us freely.
If you are looking for a durable and compact external DVD drive with a high-quality design, then this is the ideal choice. It has an advanced USB 3.0, which offers you faster and more stable data transmission. The unit also offers you compatibility with most computer systems. It is also an easy-to-use plug-and-play device, which means you do not have to install any drivers to use it.
The drive also has a strong error-correcting ability, as well as an anti-shock and noise reduction technology, which are convenient features for an external DVD drive. It also has low power consumption.
Conclusion: This a very portable DVD drive that will offer you exceptional reading and writing speeds as well as compatibility with several computer systems. The embedded cable design makes it very convenient to use in most settings.
Pros
- It is easy to use
- Stronger shielding capability
- Enhanced compatibility
- Compact design
- High-quality performance
Cons
- No drawbacks
NOLYTH External DVD Drive
- 【Slot-in CD drive】NOLYTH external CD drive is a slot-in DVD drive,No eject button,just slot-loading.It is powered by USB Type-C/USB 3.0 port from computer,please ensure these is enough power with 5V2.5A to this CD drive;don't plug the DVD drive into a USB hub or extension cords;don't place the black side to be up,the blank side to be down,otherwise the disk will stuck inside the drive or eject automatically.
- 【Ultr-thin Design】Fashionable design for Laptop Mac PC,made with aluminum alloy,Embedded cable design, shockproof, low noise, anti-interference and high durability.This drive is convenient to use and carry whether at home or travelling, which only needs a little space in your bag.It is with a single cable that's built into the USB C Superdrive and you'll never have to worry about lost cables.
- 【Plug & Play】Plug this DVD drive directly into the laptop or plug into the usb port behind of the computer host.Make sure there is a correct playback software with correct format in your computer will plug and play.No driver program or extra power supply required. NOTE: Blank CD is unformatted, please download a software-NERO and finish the setting before burning.
- 【Wide Compatibility】This CD drive works with Windows and Mac OS for Laptop/Mac/MacBook Air Pro/iMac PC/Desktop.Can't work with Car/TV/Projector/Chrome OS/Tablet/Smartphone/Microsoft. Must ensure there is a drive driver in your computer and correct media player.Specially for Windows 10 and Catalina system,they don't have a default player installed.
If you are looking for an external DVD drive that offers you advanced technology and quality performance, then this is the ideal option. It comes equipped with a USB 3.0 high-speed interface to offer you quality and fast transfers. It offers stable performance, and this is supported by strong fault tolerance. The unit is powered by USB ports and does not require additional programs or a power supply to function.
The drive has a quality, unique burning technology which supports multiple disc formats. It uses a new chip that offers you exceptional error correction, which allows you to play music and movies without lags and distortions. It is also compatible with several computer systems.
Conclusion: This unit comes in a fashionable design and offers you an embedded cable design for added convenience. The aluminum alloy frames also offer you enhanced durability, while the advanced technology offers you quality performance.
Pros
- Durable aluminum build
- Wide compatibility
- High speed
- Advanced technology
Cons
- No eject button
IVKEY Portable External CD DVD
- 【Easy to install & use】- it is easy to use. Plug and play. ivkey external CD/DVD drive is powered by the USB port. No driver and external power needed. Just plug it into your USB port and the CD/DVD driver will be detected. Usb 3. 0 cd/DVD driver is a perfect companion for computers without the internal Drive.
- 【Usb 3. 0 high speed 】- with this external CD/DVD drive for laptop, ivkey external CD/DVD drive provides you fast data transfer speed and stable performance. You can record CD, music, videos, install software or create CD/DVD backup disc. This CD/DVD - RW burner allows you to watch CD/DVD movies with No lag and burn music, movies to CD or DVD it is also compatible with USB2. 0/1. 0.
- 【Great compatibility】- The external CD/DVD drive is suitable for Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, all versions of Mac OS. It is specially designed for Apple/HP/ Dell/Lenovo/Acer/Asus/Toshiba and others, Ultrabook, netbook, laptop and desktop without drive hardware.
- 【Fashion design appearance】- on the surface of the touch sensor button to control the CD/ DVD pop-up, with just a touch to quickly pop up. Brushed texture shell brings touch and sight enjoyment. Slim design, it is portable for traveling with your laptop thanks to its small size.
- 【100% risk free purchase】- our external CD/ DVD drive adopt 100% durable brand new Cd/ DVD loader which is more stable. We believe in the quality that we are backing It up with lifetime . Feel free to Contact us, We would solve the problem soonest for you. Support replacement and resent with 24 hours friendly customer service.
If you are looking for an easy-to-use external DVD drive, then this is the ideal choice. It is powered by your computer’s USB cord and does not require any external power or drivers to function. It also offers you a stable performance as well as fast data transfers with the USB 3.0 high-speed interface. Also, you are able to play your favorite movies and music without any distortion or lag.
The unit offers compatibility with several computer systems and comes with an excellent aesthetic. It has a brushed texture shell that offers you both sight and touches of enjoyment.
Conclusion: The slim external DVD drive is the ideal companion for you a computer that lacks an internal drive. Its size also makes it very portable, which adds to its convenience.
Pros
- Stable performance
- High speed
- Durable build
- Wide compatibility
- Portable
Cons
- No independent power source
Final Conclusion
You do not have to get rid of your DVDs just because your new laptop does not have an internal drive. There is a great and easy way to run your programs or watch your favorite movies and videos from an external DVD drive. And you can be confident that there is at least one of our lists that will suit your needs.