10 Best Optical Disc Drives for Mac in 2026: Portable CD and DVD Picks

Although many Macs no longer include built-in optical drives, an external model can still make it easy to play CDs and DVDs, install legacy software, import media, or create physical backups.

This roundup compares 10 portable optical disc drives for Mac, with attention to connector compatibility, portability, disc-writing features, and practical extras such as cases, card slots, and duplication support.

Best 10 Optical Disc Drives for Mac Picks for 2026

Best Plug-and-Play Value – Rioddas USB 3.0 CD/DVD Drive

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

Check Price On Amazon

If you need optical disc drives for Mac that are simple and portable, the Rioddas model offers USB-powered CD and DVD reading and burning without an external driver or power adapter. Its built-in cable and physical eject button add convenience for everyday use.

Best For: Mac users who want a straightforward USB-A drive for playing, reading, and burning standard CDs and DVDs.

Pros:

• Plug-and-play operation with macOS 10.16+, Windows, and Linux.
• Supports CD/DVD reading and writing at up to 24x CD and 8x DVD speeds.
• Built-in cable, physical eject button, and compact brushed shell improve portability.
• USB 3.0 supports transfer rates up to 5Gbps and is backward compatible with USB 2.0.

Cons:

• Uses a USB-A interface, so newer Mac models may require a suitable adapter or hub.
• Not compatible with Blu-ray or 4K discs, ChromeOS, tablets, smartphones, TVs, or vehicles.

The Rioddas is a practical choice when you want reliable basic disc functionality without extra accessories. Connect it directly to a high-power USB port for the best desktop performance.

Check Price On Amazon

Best Hub-Integrated Option – External CD/DVD Drive with USB Hub

ORIGBELIE External CD DVD Drive, USB 3.0 & 4 USB Ports & 2 TF/SD Card Slots | Ultra Slim CD DVD ROM Player Burner Reader Writer Rewriter Optical Disk Drive for Laptop PC Mac OS Windows 11/10/8/7 Linux

Check Price On Amazon

Among optical disc drives for Mac, this ORIGBEL external drive stands out by combining CD/DVD burning with extra connectivity. Along with USB 3.0, it includes multiple USB ports, USB-C, and SD/TF card slots for transferring files and connecting accessories.

Best For: MacBook and laptop users who need an optical drive plus additional ports for cards and USB peripherals.

Pros:

• Reads and writes common CD and DVD formats, including DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD.
• Includes USB 3.0, three USB 2.0 ports, USB-C, SD, and TF slots.
• Plug-and-play design supports Mac OS 10.6 or later, Windows, and Linux.
• Slim body, embedded cable, and anti-skid pads support portable use.

Cons:

• SD and TF card slots cannot be used at the same time.
• Not compatible with Blu-ray discs, ChromeOS, TVs, tablets, smartphones, or projectors.
• Windows 11 requires a media player and network connection according to the supplied notes.

This is more than a disc reader: it is a compact connectivity accessory. Choose it if the built-in hub features are useful; otherwise, a simpler drive may be easier to carry.

Check Price On Amazon

Best Dual-Connector Design – Amicool USB 3.0 and USB-C Drive

Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD Player CD ROM Rewriter Writer Reader for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11/10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple

Check Price On Amazon

The Amicool is one of the more flexible optical disc drives for Mac because it provides both USB-A and USB-C connections. It supports standard CD/DVD reading and burning in a slim body, with setup guidance that is particularly relevant to Apple Silicon Macs.

Best For: MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini users who want one drive with USB-A and USB-C connectivity.

Pros:

• Dual USB 3.0 and Type-C interfaces support computers with either port type.
• Supports CD/DVD reading, writing, and burning at up to 24x CD and 8x DVD speeds.
• Compatible with Intel and Apple Silicon Macs, Windows, and Linux.
• Lightweight, slim, slip-resistant design includes an integrated cable.

Cons:

• Mac users may need VLC Player because Apple DVD Player is not supported.
• M1/M2/M3 Macs may require a powered USB-C hub if available power is insufficient.
• Does not support DVD-RAM, Blu-ray, ChromeOS, mobile devices, TVs, or game consoles.

The Amicool is a strong fit for households with both older USB-A computers and newer USB-C Macs. For reliable recognition, connect directly to the computer and avoid unpowered hubs or extension cables.

Check Price On Amazon

Best With Protective Case – ROOFULL USB 3.0 Type-C Drive

Check Price On Amazon

For shoppers comparing optical disc drives for Mac, the ROOFULL combines dual-connector convenience with a supplied protective case. It handles common CD and DVD playback, burning, ripping, and file backup while remaining compact enough for travel.

Best For: Mac users who want a portable CD/DVD burner with USB-A, USB-C, and included carrying protection.

Pros:

• Built-in USB-A and USB-C cable supports most MacBooks, desktops, and laptops.
• Reads and writes common CDs and DVDs at up to 24x CD and 8x DVD speeds.
• Supports playback, media burning, ripping, software installation, and file backup.
• Includes an extra-thick protective sleeve and a two-year service commitment.

Cons:

• Does not support Blu-ray or 4K discs.
• Not compatible with ChromeOS, smartphones, tablets, TVs, cars, projectors, or game consoles.
• Mac users may need to wait for a disc to be read before its icon appears on the desktop.

The ROOFULL is a well-rounded travel option for Mac owners who value both port flexibility and physical protection. Its case and built-in cable make it especially convenient for occasional use away from home.

Check Price On Amazon

Best All-in-One Pick – 8-in-1 USB External CD/DVD Drive

For shoppers comparing optical disc drives for Mac, this model stands out as a versatile choice with both USB-A and USB-C connectivity. It reads and burns CDs and DVDs while also adding USB ports and an SD/TF card reader, making it useful for more than disc playback.

Best For: Mac users who want an optical drive plus extra connectivity for transferring files from memory cards.

Pros:

• Reads and writes multiple CD and DVD formats, including DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD.
• Includes USB 3.0, three USB 2.0 ports, a USB-C port, and an SD/TF card reader.
• Supports Mac OS 10.6 or later and Windows systems, with stated speeds up to 8x DVD and 24x CD.
• Portable, plug-and-play design with error correction, anti-skid features, and a one-year warranty.

Cons:

• SD and TF cards cannot be used at the same time.
• Some Windows 10/11 computers may require the included extra power cable if the drive is not recognized.
• Not compatible with Blu-ray discs, phones, tablets, TVs, cars, or projectors.

This is the strongest multifunction option in the group, especially if you want card-reader and hub functionality alongside disc burning. Its broader feature set may be unnecessary if you only need a simple CD/DVD reader.

Best Slim Budget Option – 13mm USB 3.0 Type-C DVD Drive

This slim ORIGBELIE drive is a practical choice among optical disc drives for Mac when portability and straightforward operation matter most. It supports USB-A and USB-C connections, reads and writes common disc formats, and includes an integrated data cable.

Best For: MacBook, iMac, and Mac Mini owners who want a lightweight drive for music, movies, backups, software, or disc burning.

Pros:

• Only 13mm thick and approximately 0.2 kg, with a built-in data cable and storage bag.
• USB 3.0 connectivity is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1.
• Supports up to 8x DVD and 24x CD read/write speeds.
• Works with Mac OS 10.6 or later and supports CD/DVD formats including DVD-RAM and dual-layer discs.

Cons:

• Some computers may need the included charging cable or a 5V power source if USB power is insufficient.
• The device icon may not appear on Mac until a disc is inserted and read successfully.
• Not compatible with Blu-ray discs, iPads, phones, tablets, game consoles, projectors, or some other listed devices.

Its compact design and integrated cable make it particularly convenient for travel. The 90-day warranty is shorter than the coverage offered by some competing models, so buyers should weigh portability against long-term support.

Best Established Brand – ASUS ZenDrive External DVD Burner

The ASUS ZenDrive is a straightforward option for shoppers seeking optical disc drives for Mac from an established electronics brand. Its slim 13mm enclosure supports Mac and Windows computers, includes both USB 2.0 and Type-C cables, and adds M-Disc support for compatible long-term media.

Best For: Mac and PC users who want a branded, slim DVD burner with disc-encryption features and M-Disc compatibility.

Pros:

• Ultra-slim 13mm design for easier storage and transport.
• Includes both USB 2.0 and Type-C cables for flexible connection options.
• Supports DVD writing up to 8x and CD writing up to 24x.
• Offers M-Disc support, DISC Encryption II, and Nero BackItUp functionality for Android devices.

Cons:

• Uses USB 2.0, so its stated data-transfer rate is lower than the USB 3.0 alternatives.
• Its listed operating-system support is Mac OS X 10.6 or later and older Windows versions rather than Windows 11.
• The supplied information does not list Blu-ray support.

This drive is a good fit when brand familiarity, encryption tools, and M-Disc support are more important than maximum transfer speed. Choose a USB 3.0 model instead if faster general file transfers are a priority.

Best All-Around Pick – Synteryx USB-A & Type-C CD/DVD Drive

For shoppers comparing optical disc drives for Mac, this Synteryx model is a versatile choice with both USB-A and USB-C connectors. It supports CD and DVD reading and writing, works with macOS, Windows, and Linux, and offers a portable design for everyday disc access, media playback, and backups.

Best For: Mac users who want one compact drive for reading, burning, and backing up CDs and DVDs.

Pros:

• Combines CD/DVD reading and burning in one device.
• Includes both USB-A and USB-C connectivity for broad compatibility.
• Supports up to 24x CD and 8x DVD read/write speeds.
• Portable design includes non-slip pads and a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Cons:

• Requires a USB connection; it is not a wireless drive.
• The supplied notes do not specify compatibility with Chromebook, tablets, or televisions.

This is a practical all-purpose option when you need flexible port compatibility and both reading and writing functions in a single external optical drive for Mac.

Best for Straightforward Mac Disc Access – Rioddas Portable CD/DVD Drive

This Rioddas external drive is a simple option among optical disc drives for Mac, with USB-A and USB-C cables included for connecting to a MacBook, laptop, or desktop. It supports CD and DVD reading and writing on macOS, Windows, and Linux, while its portable format suits occasional disc use.

Best For: MacBook owners who need a basic portable drive for standard CDs, CD-R/CD-RW media, and DVD use.

Pros:

• Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables.
• Supports macOS, Windows, and Linux systems.
• Offers up to 24x optical read and write speed.

Cons:

• Some scratched, aged, specially recorded, or copy-protected discs may not read correctly.
• The supplied notes do not provide detailed dimensions beyond the external portable form factor.
• Playback depends partly on the computer’s software compatibility.

The manufacturer is clear about media limitations, but for standard retail discs and normally burned CD-R or CD-RW media, this drive offers a straightforward portable solution.

Best Lightweight Option – Compact USB-A & USB-C CD/DVD Drive

For mobile users looking at optical disc drives for Mac, this lightweight external CD/DVD drive emphasizes portability and simple setup. It includes USB-A and USB-C interfaces, requires no driver installation, and supports CD/DVD reading and burning on compatible Mac, Windows, and Linux systems.

Best For: Users who want a slim, travel-friendly drive with a built-in cable and plug-and-play operation.

Pros:

• Measures 0.59 inches thick and weighs 0.55 pounds, according to the supplied details.
• Provides USB-A and USB-C connectivity with plug-and-play setup.
• Supports up to 24x CD and 8x DVD reading, plus 24x CD writing.
• Built-in cable reduces cable-storage clutter.

Cons:

• Not intended for Chromebook, car platforms, tablets, or televisions.
• The supplied notes list broad Mac compatibility but do not identify specific macOS versions beyond Mac OS X 10.0.

This model stands out for portability and cable convenience. It is a sensible pick for carrying a disc drive between home, work, and travel, provided your device falls within the stated compatibility range.

How We Picked the Best Optical Disc Drives for Mac

We focused on external drives that are broadly compatible with macOS and suitable for common tasks such as reading CDs and DVDs, burning music or data discs, watching DVDs, and archiving files. The selection includes compact USB models, drives with both USB-A and USB-C connectivity, and options offering useful extras such as M-Disc support, card slots, carrying cases, or disc-duplication capabilities.

Because operating-system support and bundled software can change, buyers should verify macOS compatibility, included cables, and any software requirements before ordering. A drive’s advertised speed is also less important than dependable connections and a design that fits your intended setup.

Quick Comparison

• Best for general use: Choose a slim USB 3.0 drive with both reading and writing support.
• Best for newer Macs: Look for USB-C support or a USB-A-to-USB-C adapter included in the box.
• Best for backups: Consider a model that supports DVD±RW and, where offered, M-Disc.
• Best for desk setups: A drive with extra USB ports or SD/TF card slots can reduce accessory clutter.
• Best for travel: Prioritize a compact, bus-powered design with a protective case.

Key Buying Factors for Optical Disc Drives for Mac

Connector and Power

Check whether your Mac has USB-C, USB-A, or both. USB-C drives are convenient for current MacBook models, while USB-A versions may need an adapter or hub. Most portable drives draw power from the computer, so avoid models that require a separate power brick unless you need a fixed desktop solution.

Read and Write Support

A CD/DVD reader is sufficient for playing or importing content, but a burner is more versatile if you need to create audio CDs, data discs, or DVD backups. Confirm support for the specific disc formats you use, including CD-R/RW and DVD±R/RW.

Mac Software Compatibility

Hardware compatibility does not guarantee that every bundled Windows application works on macOS. macOS can handle many basic disc-reading and burning tasks, but DVD playback, encryption, and specialized duplication may require compatible third-party software.

Size, Noise, and Build

Ultra-slim drives are easier to carry but may feel less substantial than thicker desktop-oriented models. Look for a stable tray or slot mechanism, a sufficiently long cable, and a case if you will transport the drive regularly. Moderate operating noise is normal, especially during high-speed disc access.

Who Should Buy Which Optical Disc Drives for Mac?

Students and everyday users should choose a straightforward USB 3.0 burner that reads and writes both CDs and DVDs. MacBook owners will usually benefit from a USB-C model or a dual-connector design. Archivists and backup users should prioritize reliable writing support and M-Disc compatibility where long-term storage matters. Frequent travelers should select the lightest drive with a protective case, while home-office users may prefer added USB ports or card slots for a more useful all-in-one accessory.