Best External Dvd Drive For Mac (2024 Updated)

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As a Mac user, it's important to have an external DVD drive that can easily connect to your computer and provide reliable performance. Whether you need to watch movies, install software, or burn discs, having the best external DVD drive for your Mac is essential. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.

To help you make an informed decision, here are five key points to consider when looking for the best external DVD drive for your Mac:

1. Compatibility: Ensure that the DVD drive is compatible with your Mac's operating system and has the necessary ports to connect to your computer.

2. Speed: Look for a DVD drive that offers fast read and write speeds to ensure efficient performance.

3. Design: Choose a DVD drive that is compact, lightweight, and easy to carry around, especially if you plan to use it on the go.

4. Features: Consider additional features such as DVD burning capabilities, M-DISC support, and Blu-ray compatibility, depending on your needs.

5. Price: While it's important to invest in a high-quality DVD drive, consider your budget and choose an option that offers the best value for money.

By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the best external DVD drive for your Mac that meets your needs and fits your budget.

10 Best External Dvd Drive For Mac

1. Ultra-Slim 7-In-1 Usb 3.0 Cd/dvd Drive For Laptops And Desktops, Compatible With Mac, Windows, And Linux.

This External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop is a 7-in-1 USB 3.0 Ultra-Slim Portable DVD Player that is compatible with Laptop Desktop PC MacBook Windows Mac Linux OS. It is a plug and play device that does not require an internal DVD driver or external power. This makes it the perfect companion for laptop or desktop users who want a portable DVD player that can be used directly by plugging it into a USB port.

This product is a 7-in-1 optical drive, which means it is not only a CD/DVD reader but also a CD/DVD burner, 4 port USB 3.0 hub, and SD or TF card reader. It is perfect for transferring photo and video files from your camera by cards to your computer. Note that SD and TF card cannot be used at the same time.

With high speed USB 3.0 technology, this CD Burner provides fast data transfer speed and stable performance. It has a maximum 8x DVD and maximum 24x CD read/write speed without lag or distortion. The product is also backwards compatible with USB 2.0.

This USB DVD drive is compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7, Linux, Mac OS, and other systems. You can use this External DVD Drive to play movies/DVDs, burn or rip mp3/CDs, copy photos, install software, install system, install games, backup data to CDs/DVDs, and more.

The external CD/DVD drive is designed to be exquisite and portable. The embedded cable design is easy to use and organize. The slim and lightweight design allows you to easily put this USB CD burner in your travel bag and take it with you anywhere. This makes it ideal for business and travel.

If you encounter problems in the use process, you can contact the seller on Amazon through your order, and they will provide quality after-sales service. Overall, the External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop is a versatile and portable device that is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable DVD player on the go.

2. Apple Usb Superdrive

The Apple USB SuperDrive is a sleek and compact device that enables users to play and burn CDs and DVDs while on the go. Whether you're in the office or traveling, this device is perfect for watching DVD movies, installing software, creating backup discs, and more.

With its size only slightly larger than a CD case, the Apple USB SuperDrive easily fits into your travel bag and takes up little space on your desk or tray table. This device is designed to be portable and convenient, making it a great addition to your technology arsenal.

One of the best things about the Apple USB SuperDrive is that you'll never have to worry about lost cables. The device connects to your Mac with a single USB Type-A cable that's built into the SuperDrive. This means there's no separate power adapter required, and it works whether your Mac is plugged in or running on battery power.

The Apple USB SuperDrive is compatible with Mac models from 2008 and later that don't have a built-in optical drive. This means that you can use this device to add optical drive capabilities to your older Mac models, which is particularly useful if you need to access CD or DVD data.

This device is incredibly easy to use. Simply plug it into your Mac's USB port, and it will automatically start up. The SuperDrive is compatible with both Mac OS X and Windows, so you can use it with a wide range of devices.

The Apple USB SuperDrive is also incredibly reliable. It uses a slot-loading mechanism, which means that it's less likely to suffer from mechanical failure or damage than traditional tray-loading CD and DVD drives. This makes it a great option for those who need a reliable and durable optical drive.

Overall, the Apple USB SuperDrive is an excellent addition to any Mac user's technology arsenal. It's portable, easy to use, and incredibly reliable, making it the perfect solution for anyone who needs to access CD or DVD data while on the go. Whether you're working at the office or traveling the world, the Apple USB SuperDrive is a must-have accessory.

3. Roofull Usb 3.0 & Usb-C External Dvd Cd Drive With Carrying Case For Laptop, Mac, Windows, Linux

The ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive is a high-quality USB 3.0 and USB-C DVD CD ROM Disc Player Burner Reader Writer Optical Drive that is designed to provide an easy solution to reading and writing CDs and DVDs for laptops and desktop computers that do not have an internal drive. The device is also portable, making it perfect for use at home, in the office, or on the go.

This external CD/DVD drive requires no extra driver program, making it extremely easy to use. Simply plug the USB type-A or type-C connector on the data cable into your computer, insert your CDs or DVDs, and the device will be recognized automatically. The device is compatible with all versions of Mac, Linux, and Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ Vista/ XP OS.

In addition to its easy-to-use interface, the ROOFULL external CD/DVD drive is multifunctional. It is not only a DVD and CD-ROM, but also a writer player burner recorder ripper, supporting reading and writing of CD±R/RW, CD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD disks. Users can use it to read movies DVDs or music CDs, burn mp3 music/ photos/ videos/ files to blank CDs or DVDs, copy media or data files from disc to your computer, install software/ system/ games, back up data to discs, and more.

The device comes equipped with a USB 3.0 2-In-1 Data Cable 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.

For those who experience power shortage issues, the ROOFULL external CD/DVD drive comes with an additional USB-to-micro USB power cable that can be used in conjunction with the USB 3.0 data cable. This ensures that the device receives enough power to operate smoothly.

Each ROOFULL external CD/DVD drive is equipped with a brand new movement and goes through a complete production and testing process to ensure smooth operation. The device features strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference ability. Users can read, write, and copy CDs/DVDs quietly without stuttering and noise, and it won't damage their discs.

Overall, the ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive is a reliable and high-quality external CD/DVD drive that is perfect for those who need a portable and multifunctional device that can read and write CDs and DVDs. It is easy to use, compatible with a wide range of operating systems, and comes with a USB 3.0 2-In-1 Data Cable and additional power cable for those who experience power shortage issues.

4. Roofull Usb-C External Dvd Drive For Mac And Windows Pcs, Silver

The ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive is a versatile and portable optical disc drive that allows users to read, write, and rip CDs and DVDs on their laptops or desktop PCs. With its plug-and-play functionality, users can easily use this device without the need for an extra driver program.

This external CD/DVD player is a full-featured disk reader writer rewriter burner recorder ripper that supports multiple functions. It can be used to play movie DVDs, burn music/photos/videos/files to blank CDs or DVDs, copy mp3/photos/videos/files from disk to your computer, install software/system/games, back up data to discs, and more. It is compatible with multiple discs including CD-ROM, CD-R, CD +/-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+/-RW, DVD-R DL, and VCD-ROM discs.

The ROOFULL CD/DVD player is compatible with multiple operating systems including all versions of Mac, Windows 11/10/8.1/7/Vista/XP, and Linux OS. It can be used 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. However, it is not compatible with Chromebook, TV, tablet, iPad, mobile phone, projector, truck, and car.

This external disc drive is equipped with a USB 3.0 high-speed data transfer cable that provides faster data transfer rates of up to 5 Gigabits/s, approximately 10 times faster than USB 2.0. It comes with a free USB 3.0 Type C adapter that allows users to connect this USB 3.0 CD/DVD drive to USB-A or USB-C port on their notebook or desktop computer. It is recommended to use thunderbolt ports or a self-powered USB hub/docking station in case of a power shortage.

The ROOFULL CD/DVD player is made of premium quality materials and is designed to provide reliable performance. It features a 100% brand-new movement with strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference ability, ensuring stable, quiet, and smooth reading, burning, and ripping CDs and DVDs without damaging the discs.

This external disc drive has a compact and portable design that makes it easy to carry in a laptop bag, making it ideal for use at home, office, or on the go. It is also a great gift idea for hobbyists who collect CDs and DVDs.

ROOFULL is a reputable brand that has 8 years of experience in R&D and manufacturing of external optical drives. They guarantee premium product quality and excellent performance. In addition, they provide after-sales service to ensure customer satisfaction. If any issues happen after purchasing, customers can contact them for assistance or a free replacement. With the ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive, customers can enjoy worry-free shopping.

5. Roofull Usb 3.0 Type-C External Cd Dvd +/-Rw Drive With Carrying Case For Mac And Windows

The ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive USB 3.0 Type-C is a portable optical disk drive player burner rewriter that allows users to read, write, and rip CDs and DVDs with ease. With plug-and-play functionality, no extra driver program is required, making it as easy to use as an internal optical drive. Simply plug the device into a laptop or desktop PC, and it will be recognized automatically.

This versatile CD & DVD disk reader writer rewriter burner recorder can be used to play movie DVDs, burn photos, videos, and files to blank CDs or DVDs, copy data from disks to computers, install software, back up data to discs, and more. It is compatible with multiple discs, including CD-ROM, CD-R, CD +/-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+/-RW, DVD-R DL, and VCD-ROM discs.

The ROOFULL External CD DVD drive is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ Vista/ XP, Linux, and all versions of Mac OS, making it ideal for use with a variety of laptops and desktop computers from HP, LG, Dell, Acer, ASUS, Lenovo, Thinkpad, Samsung, and Microsoft. However, it is important to note that this device cannot work with Chromebook, TV, tablet, iPad, mobile phones, projectors, trucks, and cars.

With USB 3.0 high-speed data transfer, users can enjoy faster transfer rates of up to 5 Gigabits/s, approximately 10 times faster than USB 2.0. The device also comes with a USB 3.0 Type-C adapter, making it easy to switch between USB type-A and type-C ports on a notebook or desktop computer.

The ROOFULL External CD DVD drive is compact and portable, making it easy to carry in a laptop bag. It comes with a thicker protective storage carrying case bag, making it ideal for use at home, in the office, or on the go. The device is also waterproof, dustproof, and drop-proof, ensuring reliable performance even in harsh conditions.

Each ROOFULL CD/DVD drive is equipped with a brand new movement and goes through a complete production and testing process to ensure smooth operation. It features strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference ability, ensuring quiet operation without stuttering and noise that can damage discs.

ROOFULL has 8 years of experience in R&D and manufacturing of external optical drives, ensuring premium product quality and excellent performance. In addition, after-sales service is equally important, and customers can contact the company for assistance or a free replacement if needed. With worry-free shopping, users can enjoy peace of mind knowing they have a reliable and versatile external CD DVD drive at their fingertips.

6. Amicool Usb 3.0 Type-C External Dvd Drive For Mac And Pc. Slim, Portable Cd/dvd Rom Writer And Reader. Compatible With Windows, Mac, And Linux Os.

The Amicool External DVD Drive is a versatile and portable optical drive that allows users to read, write, and burn CDs and DVDs on their PC or laptop. This USB 3.0 Type-C CD DVD +/-RW optical drive is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows XP/Vista/7/8.1/10, Linux, and all versions of MAC OS.

With its plug-and-play feature, the Amicool DVD driver can be easily detected by your computer, requiring no external driver or power supply. The drive offers high-speed data transmission (max 5Gbps) and supports DVD+R, DVD-R, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW formats. The maximum DVD read speed is 8X, while the maximum CD read speed is 24X, and the maximum CD burn speed is 8X.

One of the standout features of the Amicool External DVD Drive is its slim and compact design. With an embedded cable and lightweight body, this CD external drive can be easily carried in a travel bag, making it a perfect companion for computers without internal drives. Additionally, the pop-up button and disc tray design make it convenient to read or write discs.

The Amicool External DVD Drive is a multifunctional optical drive that offers intelligent burning technology, allowing users to read, write, and burn discs with ease. Whether you are a student, professional, or someone who needs to access and store large amounts of data, this external drive is a reliable and convenient choice.

Overall, the Amicool External DVD Drive is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a portable and versatile optical drive for their PC or laptop. With its wide compatibility, high-speed data transmission, and intelligent burning technology, this drive is sure to meet all your CD and DVD needs.

7. Asus Zendrive External Dvd Burner With M-Disc Support For Mac And Windows. Includes Nero Backitup For Android, Usb 2.0 And Type-C Cables.

The ASUS ZenDrive Silver 13mm External 8X DVD/Burner Drive is a state-of-the-art device that allows Mac and Windows users to burn and read DVDs with ease. At only 13mm in thickness, it is ultra-slim and lightweight, making it easy to take on the go.

This external drive comes with USB 2.0 and Type-C cables, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. Additionally, it has Nero BackItUp functionality for Android devices, which allows users to easily back up their data and files.

One of the standout features of the ASUS ZenDrive is its M-Disc support, which ensures that data can be stored for up to 1,000 years. This is a unique feature that isn't found in many other external DVD burners on the market.

The drive also features DISC Encryption II, which provides password-control and hidden-file functionality. This is a great security feature that protects sensitive data and files from unauthorized access.

Overall, the ASUS ZenDrive Silver 13mm External 8X DVD/Burner Drive is a versatile and reliable device that is perfect for anyone who needs to burn or read DVDs on-the-go. With its slim design, wide compatibility, and advanced features, it is an excellent choice for professionals, students, and anyone who needs to access or store data on disc.

8. Buffalo Mediastation Desktop Blu-Ray Drive/external – Burns Blu-Rays, Dvds, Cds With Usb. 128gb Data Write. Compatible With Pc And Mac.

The BUFFALO MediaStation Desktop Blu-ray Drive/External is a high-quality optical drive that can play and burn Blu-ray, DVD, and CD discs. With its USB connection, it is compatible with laptops, desktop PCs, and Macs, making it a versatile addition to any setup.

The MediaStation can write Blu-ray discs up to 128 GB, which is a significant amount of data storage. This is perfect for backing up large files or creating high-quality video content. The drive can also play DVDs at near Blu-ray quality thanks to its upscaling technology.

The MediaStation is designed with speed in mind. Its USB 3.0 technology allows for fast transfer rates, making it easy to read and write large files quickly. The drive can read Blu-ray discs at 12x speed and write them at 16x speed, while DVD discs can be read and written at 16x speed.

This drive is a quality-made product that is TAA compliant and made in Japan. It comes with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty and US-based support, ensuring that customers can trust in its reliability and durability.

Overall, the MediaStation is a top-of-the-line optical drive that is perfect for anyone who needs to play or burn Blu-ray, DVD, or CD discs. Its compatibility with a variety of devices and its high-speed technology make it an ideal choice for professionals or anyone who requires reliable and efficient data storage.

9. Roofull External Cd Dvd Drive With Sd Card Reader And Usb Ports, Usb 3.0 Type-C, For Windows, Mac, And Linux.

The ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive with SD Card Reader and USB Ports is a versatile and convenient accessory for laptop and desktop computer users. This plug and play device requires no extra driver program, making it as easy to use as a built-in optical drive. Simply connect it to your computer and start using it to watch movie DVDs, burn music, photos, and video files to blank CDs or DVDs, copy files from discs to your computer, install software, back up data to discs, and more.

This external CD DVD drive is compatible with all brands of Windows 11/10/8.1/7/Vista/XP or Linux laptops and desktop computers, as well as all versions of Apple MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, and Mac mini. It can handle multiple types of discs, including CD-ROM, CD-R, CD +/-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+/-RW, DVD-R DL, and VCD-ROM discs.

In addition to its CD/DVD drive functionality, this device also features a USB hub with 2 fast USB 3.0 input ports and 1 SD card slot. This allows you to connect external hard drives, wired/wireless mice or keyboards, USB flash drives, and other USB accessories. The SD card slot is particularly useful for transferring photos and video files from your camera to your computer.

This external CD DVD drive comes with a removable long data cable, which can be replaced as needed. The data cable includes both USB 3.0 Type-A and Type-C connectors, eliminating the need for a USB adapter or hub. Additionally, a power supply cord is included in case your computer cannot supply enough power through a single data cord.

ROOFULL has extensive experience in external disk drive manufacturing, ensuring premium product quality and excellent performance. This external CD DVD drive features a 100% brand-new movement with strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference abilities, ensuring stable, quiet, and smooth reading, burning, and ripping processes.

Overall, the ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive with SD Card Reader and USB Ports is a reliable and versatile accessory for anyone who needs to read, write, or burn CDs and DVDs on their laptop or desktop computer. It also serves as a USB hub and SD card reader, making it a valuable addition to your computer setup.

10. Lg 8x Usb Ultra Slim Portable Dvd Rewriter With M-Disc Support For Pc And Mac (Gp60nb50)

The LG Electronics 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Rewriter External Drive with M-DISC Support for PC and Mac, Black (GP60NB50) is a sleek and compact external DVD writer that offers superior data protection and non-stop playability. With an 8x DVD-R writing speed and M-DISC support, this drive ensures that your valuable data is safe from disc rot and other damage that can occur over time.

One of the standout features of the GP60NB50 is its ultra-slim portable design that makes it easy to take on the go. The drive's stylish black finish and minimalist design give it a modern look that complements any workspace or entertainment setup. With TV connectivity, you can even use this drive to watch your favourite DVDs on your television.

The GP60NB50 is also compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2003, and Mac OS X (10.7.5). This makes it a versatile solution for anyone who needs to read or write CDs and DVDs on multiple devices.

In terms of performance, the GP60NB50 is a top-of-the-line external DVD writer. With a 24x CD-RW write speed and 24x CD-R/RW/ROM read speed, it can handle even the most demanding tasks with ease. The drive's USB 2.0 interface ensures fast data transfer rates and reliable performance.

Another key feature of the GP60NB50 is its support for M-DISCs. M-DISCs are a type of DVD that use a special layer of materials to protect data from degradation and other forms of damage. This makes them ideal for long-term data storage, archiving, and backup.

Overall, the LG Electronics 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Rewriter External Drive with M-DISC Support for PC and Mac, Black (GP60NB50) is a must-have accessory for anyone who needs to read or write CDs and DVDs on the go. With its slim and stylish design, superior data protection, and non-stop playability, it's the perfect solution for anyone who needs reliable and convenient access to their favourite media.

Best External Dvd Drive For Mac FAQs

Can I use an external DVD drive to install software on my Mac?

Yes, you can use an external DVD drive to install software on your Mac. Many modern Macs don't come with built-in DVD drives, so an external drive is a convenient solution for installing software from a disc. The process is straightforward: simply connect the external DVD drive to your Mac via USB or Thunderbolt and insert the software disc into the drive. The disc should appear on your desktop, and you can double-click on the installer file to begin the installation process.

It's worth noting that some newer software may be available only as a digital download, so an external DVD drive wouldn't be necessary in those cases. However, if you have older software that you still use or need to install, an external DVD drive is a useful tool to have on hand.

How do I choose the right external DVD drive for my Mac based on my needs and budget?

When choosing an external DVD drive for your Mac, the first thing you need to consider is your specific needs. Do you need a drive that can read and write both CDs and DVDs, or will a DVD-only drive suffice? Will you be using the drive primarily for data storage or for watching movies? Once you've established your needs, you can start looking for drives that fit your budget.

In terms of compatibility, make sure the drive you choose is compatible with your Mac's operating system. Most modern drives are compatible with both Mac and Windows, but it's always best to double-check before making a purchase.

When it comes to budget, there are a wide range of options available, from budget-friendly options to higher-end models with additional features. Keep in mind that a higher price tag doesn't always guarantee better performance, so be sure to read reviews and do your research before making a decision.

What are the top-rated external DVD drives for Mac in the market?

There are several top-rated external DVD drives for Mac available in the market. Some of the popular options include the Apple USB SuperDrive, the LG Electronics 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive, the Pioneer Electronics USA Slim External Blu Ray Writer, and the ASUS ZenDrive Ultra Slim USB 2.0 External DVD Drive. These drives offer various features such as fast read and write speeds, slim design, and compatibility with various operating systems. The Apple USB SuperDrive has been highly recommended by Mac users for its plug-and-play functionality and sleek design. The LG Electronics 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive is also a popular choice for its affordability and compatibility with different types of DVDs and CDs. The Pioneer Electronics USA Slim External Blu Ray Writer is ideal for users who need to read and write Blu-ray discs, while the ASUS ZenDrive Ultra Slim USB 2.0 External DVD Drive is a good option for its M-Disc support and easy-to-use software.

What features should I look for in an external DVD drive for my Mac?

When looking for an external DVD drive for your Mac, there are several features that you should consider. Firstly, ensure that the drive is compatible with your Mac's operating system. Secondly, check the drive's read and write speeds, as faster speeds will allow for quicker data transfer. Additionally, consider the type of discs the drive can read and write, such as DVD-R or CD-R. You may also want to look for a drive with a large cache size, which can improve the drive's performance. Other features to consider include the drive's size and weight, as well as its connectivity options (e.g. USB or Thunderbolt). Finally, choose a reputable brand with good reviews to ensure that the drive is reliable and durable.

Which external DVD drives are compatible with the latest Mac operating system?

The latest Mac operating system is macOS Big Sur, and most external DVD drives are compatible with it. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting an external DVD drive for your Mac.

First, make sure the drive connects to your Mac via USB-C or Thunderbolt 3, as these are the only ports available on most modern Macs. Second, check the drive's compatibility with macOS Big Sur by looking for information on the manufacturer's website or contacting their customer support.

Some popular external DVD drives that are compatible with macOS Big Sur include the LG Electronics GP65NB60, the ASUS ZenDrive U9M, and the Dell DW316. These drives are all lightweight, compact, and offer fast read and write speeds. They also come with software that allows you to play DVDs or burn discs directly from your Mac. Overall, there are many external DVD drives available that are compatible with macOS Big Sur, so finding one that meets your needs should not be difficult.

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