10 Best Optical Disc Drives in 2026 for Reliable Reading, Burning, and Backup

Physical media remains useful for installing legacy software, watching DVDs, creating discs, and archiving files. The best optical disc drives balance compatibility, connection type, speed, portability, and dependable disc handling.

This roundup compares 10 optical disc drives, from slim USB DVD writers for modern laptops to internal SATA models for desktop upgrades. Use the guide below to narrow your choice by device, workload, and budget.

Best 10 Optical Disc Drives Picks for 2026

Best Slim Mac/PC Pick – ASUS ZenDrive External DVD Burner

The ASUS ZenDrive is a compact choice for optical disc drives when you need DVD and CD reading or burning with a Mac or Windows computer. Its 13mm ultra-slim form factor, included USB 2.0 and Type-C cables, and M-Disc support make it practical for portable backups, media, and everyday disc tasks.

Best For: Mac and Windows users who want a slim external DVD burner with flexible cable support.

Pros:

• Ultra-slim 13mm design for easier portability
• Includes USB 2.0 and Type-C cables
• Supports DVD writing up to 8x and CD speeds up to 24x
• Includes M-Disc support and DISC Encryption II

Cons:

• Uses USB 2.0 rather than USB 3.0
• Windows 10 and older Windows versions are listed; newer operating-system compatibility should be verified

The ZenDrive stands out for its thin design and broad Mac/PC compatibility. It is a sensible option if portability, included cables, and disc-protection features matter more than the fastest USB interface.

Best Internal Desktop Value – Lite-On 24X SATA DVD Drive

The Lite-On IHAS124-14 is an internal optical disc drive for desktop PCs with an available 5.25-inch half-height bay and SATA connection. Its 24x media speed makes it suited to straightforward CD and DVD tasks in a traditional desktop build.

Best For: Desktop PC owners replacing or adding an internal SATA DVD drive.

Pros:

• Internal 5.25-inch half-height form factor
• SATA connectivity for compatible desktop systems
• Up to 24x media speed
• Includes a SATA cable and manual

Cons:

• Not designed for laptops or external use
• Requires an available compatible SATA connection and drive bay
• Supplied notes provide limited detail about supported disc formats

This Lite-On model is a practical fit for a desktop upgrade or replacement. Choose it when you specifically need an internal SATA optical drive rather than the convenience of a USB-connected model.

Best USB 3.0 Portable Pick – Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive

The Rioddas external CD/DVD drive is a plug-and-play option for laptops and desktops that need optical disc drives without an internal bay. USB 3.0 connectivity, backward compatibility with USB 2.0, an embedded cable, and support for Windows, macOS, and Linux make it versatile for disc playback and burning.

Best For: Laptop and desktop users who want a portable USB 3.0 CD/DVD reader and burner.

Pros:

• USB-powered plug-and-play operation with no external adapter
• USB 3.0 supports transfer rates up to 5Gbps and works with USB 2.0
• Reads and writes CDs at up to 24x and DVDs at up to 8x
• Embedded cable and physical eject button improve everyday convenience

Cons:

• Not compatible with ChromeOS, smartphones, tablets, TVs, projectors, or vehicles
• Does not support Blu-ray or 4K discs
• Desktop users may need to connect it to a high-power rear USB port

Rioddas offers a strong balance of speed, portability, and broad computer compatibility. Its limitations are important, but for standard CD and DVD work on supported computers, it is one of the more flexible external options here.

Best Multifunction Hub – ORIGBEL External CD/DVD Drive

The ORIGBEL external drive combines optical disc drives functionality with an integrated USB hub and card slots. Along with CD/DVD reading and burning, it provides USB-A, USB-C, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, SD, and TF connectivity for users who want to consolidate several accessories around a laptop.

Best For: Laptop users who need a CD/DVD burner plus extra USB and memory-card connections.

Pros:

• USB 3.0 supports transfer rates up to 5Gbps and is backward compatible
• Reads and writes CD and DVD media, including DVD-RAM
• Built-in hub includes USB ports, USB-C, SD, and TF slots
• Slim, portable design includes an embedded cable and anti-skid pads

Cons:

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

This ORIGBEL model is more than a basic external optical drive: it is also a useful connectivity accessory. It makes the most sense for laptop users who can take advantage of the added ports and card readers, not just the CD/DVD function.

Best Dual-Interface Pick – Amicool USB 3.0 and USB-C DVD Drive

For shoppers comparing optical disc drives, the Amicool external DVD drive stands out for its combination of USB-A and USB-C connectivity. It supports CD and DVD reading, writing, and burning, while its slim design and integrated cable make it convenient for laptops, desktops, travel, and home use.

Best For: Users who want one portable optical drive with both USB 3.0 and USB-C connections for compatible Windows, macOS, or Linux computers.

Pros:

• Dual USB 3.0 and USB-C interfaces support up to 5Gbps data transfer.
• Plug-and-play setup typically requires no additional drivers.
• Supports up to 8x DVD and 24x CD read/write speeds.
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux computers.

Cons:

• Does not support Blu-ray, DVD-RAM, ChromeOS, mobile devices, TVs, or game consoles.
• Direct computer connection is recommended; hubs and extension cables may cause power issues.
• Mac users may need VLC Player, and Apple DVD Player is not supported.

The Amicool is a flexible choice when connection options matter, especially for newer laptops with USB-C ports. Its computer-only compatibility and power requirements are worth checking before purchase.

Best Format Flexibility – ORIGBELIE Slim External CD/DVD Drive

Among optical disc drives, the ORIGBELIE external CD/DVD drive is a practical option for users who need broad disc-format support. Its USB 3.0 connection, included charging cable, carrying bag, and compact 13mm profile make it suited to everyday laptop and desktop use.

Best For: Users who need an affordable, highly portable drive that can read and write common CD and DVD formats, including DVD-RAM and dual-layer media.

Pros:

• Supports CD±R/RW, DVD±R/RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, and DVD±R DL formats.
• USB 3.0 offers transfer speeds up to 5Gbps and is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1.
• Compact 13mm design weighs about 0.2 kg and includes an integrated data cable.
• Includes a charging cable, storage bag, manual, and 90-day warranty.

Cons:

• Not compatible with Blu-ray, Chromebooks, many mobile devices, vehicles, TVs, or game consoles.
• Some computers may require the included charging cable or an external 5V power source.
• Mac users may need to insert and successfully read a disc before the device icon appears.

The ORIGBELIE offers notable format coverage and useful travel accessories in a very thin enclosure. Confirm your operating system and device type first, particularly if you use a Chromebook, Ubuntu, tablet, or phone.

Best M-DISC Option – LG GP65NB78 Portable DVD Writer

The LG GP65NB78 is a straightforward optical disc drive for PC users who want an ultra-slim external DVD writer from an established brand. It uses USB 2.0, supports up to 8x DVD and 24x CD writing, and includes M-DISC support plus CyberLink software.

Best For: PC owners looking for a slim DVD writer with M-DISC support and a simple USB connection.

Pros:

• Ultra-slim 14mm design is easy to carry.
• Supports up to 8x DVD and 24x CD write speeds.
• M-DISC support is included for compatible archival media.
• USB 2.0 is compatible with USB 3.0 ports, and CyberLink software is included.

Cons:

• USB 2.0 limits the stated transfer rate to up to 480Mbps.
• Listed compatibility is focused on PCs rather than broad multi-platform support.
• It is a DVD writer and does not provide Blu-ray support.

The LG GP65NB78 is a sensible pick when M-DISC compatibility and a compact form factor matter more than USB 3.0 performance. Its narrower PC focus makes it less versatile than some dual-interface alternatives.

Best Plug-and-Play Pick – Slim USB-A/USB-C CD/DVD Drive

This portable optical disc drive is a straightforward choice for laptops, PCs, and Macs that still need CD and DVD access. It supports USB-A and USB-C connections, plug-and-play use, and read/write speeds up to 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs.

Best For: Users who want a lightweight external CD/DVD burner with flexible USB connectivity and a built-in cable.

Pros:

• USB-A and USB-C interfaces support a wide range of computers.
• Plug-and-play design requires no driver installation.
• Compact 0.55-pound design is easy to carry.
• Supports CD and DVD playback, reading, and burning.

Cons:

• Not compatible with Chromebooks, cars, tablets, or televisions.
• The plastic enclosure may be less rugged than metal alternatives.

With practical compatibility and a built-in cable, this drive is a convenient everyday option for software installation, media playback, and disc burning.

Best Multifunction Pick – 8-in-1 USB Optical Drive Hub

For shoppers seeking more than a basic optical disc drive, this 8-in-1 model combines CD/DVD reading and burning with extra ports. It includes a USB 3.0 hub, three USB 2.0 ports, an SD/TF card reader, and USB-C connectivity.

Best For: Laptop and desktop users who want optical media access plus convenient peripheral and memory-card connectivity.

Pros:

• Combines a CD/DVD burner with USB, USB-C, and SD/TF expansion.
• Supports up to 24x CD and 8x DVD read/write speeds.
• Works with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems listed by the manufacturer.
• Includes a one-year after-sales warranty.

Cons:

• Some Windows 10/11 systems may need the extra power cable if the drive is not recognized.
• SD and TF cards cannot be used simultaneously.
• Not designed for cars, TVs, tablets, smartphones, projectors, or Blu-ray discs.

This is the most versatile option of the three, particularly for users transferring photos or videos from cards while also burning or reading discs.

Best Ultra-Slim Pick – 0.5-Inch USB 3.0 DVD Burner

This ultra-slim optical disc drive is designed for portability, measuring just 0.5 inches thick and weighing 208 grams. USB-A and USB-C connectivity, plug-and-play operation, and support for CD/DVD playback and burning make it a practical travel companion.

Best For: Travelers and laptop owners who prioritize a thin, lightweight drive with both USB-A and USB-C support.

Pros:

• Ultra-slim 0.5-inch design fits easily in a bag or large pocket.
• Supports USB 3.0, USB-A, and USB-C connections.
• Offers up to 24x CD and 8x DVD read/write speeds.
• Includes a storage pouch and extra power cable.

Cons:

• Not compatible with ChromeOS, Ubuntu, TVs, cars, projectors, phones, tablets, game consoles, or Blu-ray discs.
• The warranty period is 90 days.

Its exceptionally thin profile and included pouch make this a strong choice when portability matters more than added hub functionality.

How We Picked These Optical Disc Drives

We selected models that cover the most common optical-media needs: reading and burning CDs and DVDs, connecting to current laptops, upgrading desktop PCs, and creating portable backup solutions. We considered interface compatibility, supported disc formats, portability, power requirements, stated write speeds, included features, and support for archival technologies such as M-DISC.

Because specifications and bundled software can vary by seller or revision, confirm the listing details before purchase—especially cable type, operating-system support, and whether recording software is included.

Quick Comparison

Drive type	Best suited for	Main advantage	Potential limitation
Portable USB external DVD writer	Laptops and occasional use	Easy to move and install	May need a direct USB connection for power
USB-C-compatible external drive	Modern laptops and tablets	Convenient connection options	Adapters or hubs may affect compatibility
Internal SATA DVD writer	Desktop PCs	Permanent installation and tidy setup	Requires an open drive bay and SATA connections
Multiport external drive	Limited-port laptops	Adds card slots or USB expansion	Larger footprint and more components

Key Buying Factors for Optical Disc Drives

Connection and Power

USB 3.0 models are broadly useful and generally offer faster data transfer than USB 2.0, although the disc mechanism remains the main speed limit. USB-C support is convenient, but check whether the drive has a native USB-C cable or only a USB-A cable with an adapter. Avoid relying on an unpowered hub if the drive is prone to spin-up power demands.

Disc Formats and Writing Features

For routine use, choose a drive supporting CD-R/RW and DVD±R/RW. Dual-layer DVD support can increase capacity, while M-DISC compatibility matters if you plan to create long-term archival discs using suitable media. A drive advertised as a reader may not support writing, so verify that it is labeled a burner, writer, or rewriter.

Speed, Noise, and Portability

Higher advertised speeds can shorten burns, but real-world performance depends on media quality, software, and the computer connection. Slim drives are easier to carry but may feel less robust than full-size units. If you watch movies or work in a quiet room, also consider reviews mentioning vibration and operating noise.

Operating-System and Software Support

Most USB Optical Disc Drives work through standard operating-system drivers, but disc playback and burning may require separate software. Check compatibility with Windows or macOS and confirm whether the included application supports your intended task.

Who Should Buy Which Optical Disc Drives?

Choose a slim external USB model if you need occasional access to discs on a laptop, ultrabook, or desktop without a built-in drive. Pick a USB-C-compatible option for newer computers, particularly when you want to avoid carrying an adapter. A model with extra USB ports or SD/TF slots can suit travelers who also need basic peripheral expansion, though it is less compact.

For a permanent desktop installation, the Lite-On internal SATA drive is the more appropriate format, provided your case has a compatible bay and available connections. For archival projects, prioritize a model with M-DISC support and use compatible archival media. If you mainly burn music, photos, software installers, or backup discs, confirm the supported formats and use reliable blank media rather than choosing solely by the highest advertised speed.