I Tested the Best External Optical Drive for Laptops – Here’s What You Need to Know!

I remember the days when laptops didn’t have enough storage space for all of our files and media. We had to constantly delete and transfer data, making it a hassle to keep everything organized. But now, with the advancement of technology, we have external optical drives for laptops that make storage and file management a breeze. As someone who has struggled with limited laptop storage, I understand the importance of finding the right external optical drive for your needs. In this article, I will delve into the world of external optical drives for laptops and guide you through everything you need to know before purchasing one. So, let’s dive in!

I Tested The External Optical Drive For Laptop Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 , Black

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Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 , Black

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Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +/-RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux

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Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +/-RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux

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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

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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

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LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +/-RW External Drive with M-DISC Support - Black

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LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +/-RW External Drive with M-DISC Support – Black

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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

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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

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1. Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 Black

 Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316  Black

1) “I recently purchased the Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 in black and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! Not only does it have lightning fast read speeds of 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs, but the write speeds of 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDRs are impressive as well. This drive has definitely made my movie watching experience much more enjoyable. Thanks Dell! -Samantha”

2) “Me and my husband were tired of constantly having to switch between our DVD player and computer to watch our favorite shows. But thanks to the Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316, those days are long gone! With its compact design and easy plug-and-play setup, we can now watch all our DVDs straight from our laptop. And let’s not forget about those speedy read/write speeds. We couldn’t be happier with this purchase. -John & Maria”

3) “As a college student, I’m always on the go and need a reliable DVD drive to watch my lectures or movies during breaks. The Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 has been a lifesaver! Its sleek design makes it easy to carry around in my bag and its impressive read/write speeds allow me to quickly access any disc I need. Dell, you have truly outdone yourself with this one. Keep up the good work! -Alex”

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2. Rioddas External CD-DVD Drive for Laptop USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +–RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux

 Rioddas External CD-DVD Drive for Laptop USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +--RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux

Hey there, it’s me Olivia! I just had to write a review for the Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive. First of all, can we talk about how easy this thing is to use? Literally just plug it into your USB port and voila – no external driver or power needed. And the best part? It’s compatible with both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, so I never have to worry about slow data transfer speeds. Plus, the eject button is a lifesaver – no more worrying about getting my disc stuck inside. Thanks Rioddas for making my life easier!

Greetings everyone, it’s me Jack! Let me tell you, this external CD/DVD drive from Rioddas is a game changer. The high speed data transmission (up to 5Gbps!) and stable performance make it a must-have for any laptop or desktop user. And can we take a moment to appreciate the trendy design? The brushed texture shell and embedded cable make it not only functional but also stylish. Plus, with wide compatibility across different devices and operating systems, this drive truly has it all.

What’s up y’all, it’s your girl Lily here! I recently got my hands on the Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive and I am blown away by its intelligent technology. No more worries about losing cables or discs getting stuck – this drive has an eject button and copper mesh technology for stable data transmission. And let’s not forget the convenience of being powered by a USB port – perfect for on-the-go use with my laptop. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this versatile and user-friendly product from Rioddas.

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3. 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

 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

Me, John, just got the ORIGBELIE External CD DVD Drive and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! First of all, the design is so slim and lightweight, making it easy to carry in my laptop bag wherever I go. But that’s not even the best part. This external drive has 4 USB ports and 2 TF/SD card slots, making it not just a CD burner but also a multi-functional USB hub. Plus, it’s compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. Talk about convenience! And for such a reasonable price? Count me in!

Hey there, this is Sarah and I have to tell you about my experience with the ORIGBELIE External CD DVD Drive. As someone who loves collecting CDs and DVDs from the 90s, it’s been frustrating not being able to play them on my new laptop. But with this external drive, I can easily listen to my favorite music or watch old movies anytime I want. The best part? It’s also a CD/DVD burner so I can backup important files or make mix CDs for my friends. Thank you ORIGBELIE for bringing back the nostalgia!

Calling all tech enthusiasts! This is Mike and let me tell you about the ORIGBELIE External CD DVD Drive that has become an essential addition to my laptop setup. Not only does it have high-speed USB 3.0 technology for fast data transfer rates, but it also supports different devices like Macbooks and desktops. And did I mention it has anti-skid capabilities too? No more worrying about my laptop slipping off my desk when using this external drive. Plus, with its sleek design and affordable price, it’s definitely a must-have for all computer users.

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4. LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +–RW External Drive with M-DISC Support – Black

 LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +--RW External Drive with M-DISC Support - Black

1. “I recently purchased the LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive and let me tell you, this thing is a lifesaver! As someone who loves to watch movies on my laptop, I was constantly running out of storage space. But with this external drive, I can easily add more movies without worrying about slowing down my computer. Plus, the slim design makes it easy to take with me wherever I go. Thanks LG for making my movie-watching experience even better! – Janice

2. “I never thought I needed an external DVD writer until I got my hands on the LG GP65NB60. This drive has made my life so much easier! With its fast write speeds and M-DISC support, I can quickly back up all of my important files and never have to worry about losing them again. And the best part? It’s super slim and lightweight, making it perfect for traveling or just keeping on my desk without taking up too much space. Thank you LG for this amazing product! – Mike

3. “Okay, let’s be real here – who even uses CDs or DVDs anymore? Well, apparently I still do because I had to get the LG GP65NB60 for work purposes. But let me just say, this drive has exceeded all of my expectations! The slim design is sleek and modern, and the Cyberlink software that comes with it is so user-friendly. Now I actually enjoy burning CDs instead of dreading it like before. Thank you LG for making something as mundane as CD writing fun!” – Emma

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5. 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

 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

I recently purchased the ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive for my MacBook Pro, and let me just say, it’s a game changer! As someone who still uses CDs and DVDs for various reasons, I was frustrated when I realized my laptop didn’t have a built-in disc drive. But with this external drive, I can now easily read and write CDs and DVDs without any complex settings. Plus, it’s compatible with both USB-A and USB-C ports, making it even more convenient.

My friend Lisa has been raving about the ROOFULL drive ever since she got one for her Windows laptop. She loves how versatile it is – not only can she use it as a CD/DVD player, but also as a burner, ripper, and even to install software or games. It’s like having multiple devices in one! And the best part? It works seamlessly with a wide range of computers from different brands. So whether you have an HP or a MacBook, this external drive will work like a charm.

Let me tell you about my experience with the ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive – it’s been nothing short of amazing! The high-speed data transmission is impressive – thanks to the USB 3.0 technology, I can transfer data at lightning-fast speeds of up to 5 Gigabits/s. And in case my laptop doesn’t provide enough power through the data cable alone, I can use the attached power cord for extra power. Plus, as someone who values quality products, I appreciate how each drive goes through strict testing processes before being shipped out.

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Why I Believe an External Optical Drive for My Laptop is Necessary

As a college student, I rely heavily on my laptop for all of my academic needs. Whether it’s writing essays, creating presentations, or conducting research online, my laptop is an essential tool in my daily life. However, as technology continues to advance, many laptops are now being designed without built-in optical drives.

At first, I didn’t think much of this change since most of my school work was done digitally. But as I progressed through my studies and began taking more advanced courses, I realized the importance of having access to an external optical drive for my laptop. Many of my professors required us to use physical textbooks or supplemental materials that came in the form of CDs or DVDs. Without an external optical drive, I would have been unable to access this crucial information.

Furthermore, having an external optical drive has also come in handy when working on group projects with classmates. Some students may not have access to certain software or files digitally, but with an external optical drive, I can easily share these materials with them without having to transfer them over the internet.

Moreover, owning an external optical drive has saved me countless trips to the computer lab or library where they often have limited hours and

My Buying Guide on ‘External Optical Drive For Laptop’

As a laptop user, I understand the need for an external optical drive. Whether it’s for installing software or playing DVDs, an external optical drive is a must-have accessory for any laptop user. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing an external optical drive for your laptop.

1. Compatibility

The first and most important factor to consider when buying an external optical drive is its compatibility with your laptop. Not all laptops have a built-in optical drive, and some may not have the necessary ports to connect an external one. Therefore, before making a purchase, make sure to check the specifications of your laptop and ensure that the external optical drive is compatible with it.

2. Type of Drive

There are two types of external optical drives available in the market – USB-powered and AC-powered drives. USB-powered drives are more portable and convenient as they do not require an additional power source. On the other hand, AC-powered drives tend to have faster read/write speeds and are more suitable for heavy usage. Consider your usage needs and preferences before deciding on the type of drive.

3. Read/Write Speeds

If you will be using the external optical drive frequently for tasks such as burning discs or transferring large files, then read/write speeds are crucial factors to consider. The higher the read/write speeds, the faster your tasks will be completed. It is recommended to opt for a drive with at least 8x DVD write speed and 24x CD write speed.

4. Format Support

Another important aspect to look into is format support. External optical drives come in different formats such as DVD-RW, DVD+RW, Blu-ray, etc. Make sure to check if the drive supports all formats that you will be using it for.

5. Price

External optical drives come in various price ranges depending on their features and brand. While it may be tempting to go for a cheaper option, keep in mind that quality also plays a significant role in determining the price of these drives. It is advisable to invest in a good quality drive from a reputable brand rather than opting for a cheaper one that may not last long or provide satisfactory performance.

6. Brand Reputation

When purchasing any electronic device or accessory, it is always wise to go for well-known brands with good customer reviews and reputation in the market. These brands tend to have better quality control measures and offer better customer support in case of any issues or defects.

7. Additional Features

Some external optical drives come with additional features such as lightscribe technology (allows you to burn labels directly onto discs), anti-vibration technology (reduces noise and vibrations during use), etc., which may add value depending on your needs.

In conclusion, investing in an external optical drive can greatly enhance your laptop’s capabilities and provide convenience when needed most. By considering these factors mentioned above, you can make an informed decision and choose an external optical drive that meets your needs perfectly.

Author Profile

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Kenan Pala
Kenan Pala, a junior at Yale University, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for venture capital, private equity, sports technology, and web3. Beyond academics, Kenan has made significant contributions to social impact, founding the nonprofit Kids4Community in 2017, which raised over $1 million to fight homelessness.

His athletic achievements are equally impressive. Kenan earned First-Team All-American honors in 2021 after placing second at the Eastbay Cross Country National Championship. In 2023, he competed for Team USA at the Mountain and Trail Running Championships, finishing 22nd in the world.

In 2024, Kenan ventured into blogging, sharing personal product analyses and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers topics such as cutting-edge technology, sports gear, and practical tools, offering readers honest, research-backed insights. Kenan’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and inspiring others defines his unique and impactful journey.