Top USB C Optical Drives for Modern Laptops
The ASUS ZenDrive U9M is our top pick for most users. It is slim, bus-powered, and works with both USB C and USB A. Its main advantage is the included M-DISC support for archival burning. The main limitation is that it lacks a full-size USB A port, so you need an adapter for older computers.
Modern laptops often skip the optical drive to stay thin. But if you need to read an old CD or burn a disc, a USB C optical drive is a handy accessory. These drives connect through a USB C port, which is common on new MacBooks, Windows ultrabooks, and even some tablets.
We looked at a range of models from trusted brands like ASUS, LG, and Pioneer. We focused on drives that are bus-powered, meaning they draw power from the USB port without a separate adapter. We also considered build quality and software support.
How to choose
Our top picks
ASUS ZenDrive U9M
The ASUS ZenDrive U9M is a sleek, ultra-slim external DVD writer. It connects via USB C and includes a USB A adapter. It supports M-DISC for long-term data archiving and features a stylish diamond-cut design. Owners report it is reliable and quiet during operation.
Pros
- Very portable and lightweight
- M-DISC support for archival
- Works with both USB C and USB A
Cons
- No USB A cable included, only adapter
- May not read UHD Blu-ray
LG GP65NB60
The LG GP65NB60 is a popular external DVD writer that comes with a USB C cable. It is slightly larger than the ASUS but offers a sturdy build. It supports both DVD and CD read and write. Many users find it a dependable choice for everyday use.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Comes with USB C cable
- Good read and write speeds
Cons
- Design is a bit dated
- No M-DISC support
Pioneer BDR-XD07B
The Pioneer BDR-XD07B is a premium external Blu-ray drive. It supports BD-R, BD-RE, DVD, and CD. It is powered via USB C and includes CyberLink software for playback and burning. Users appreciate its quiet operation and high build quality.
Pros
- Blu-ray burning capability
- Very quiet operation
- Comes with useful software
Cons
- More expensive than DVD-only drives
- Requires USB C port with enough power
HP External DVD Drive
The HP External DVD Drive is a no-frills option that connects via USB C. It is designed for easy setup with Windows laptops, though it also works with Mac. It is a bit bulkier but offers a reliable mechanism. Some users note it can be a bit loud during operation.
Pros
- Straightforward setup
- Sturdy construction
- Works with major operating systems
Cons
- Bulky compared to others
- Cable is permanently attached
Apple USB SuperDrive
The Apple USB SuperDrive is Apple’s own external DVD drive. It is ultra-thin and matches Mac aesthetics. It connects via USB A, but you can use a USB C adapter. It is designed primarily for Macs and may not work with Windows without workarounds.
Pros
- Compact and elegant design
- Plug and play with Mac
- Reliable Apple quality
Cons
- Does not include USB C cable
- Not officially compatible with Windows
Buffalo MediaStation USB C
The Buffalo MediaStation external drive is a DVD writer that offers a wide range of compatibility. It comes with a USB C cable and supports Windows and Mac. It has a vertical stand option for space saving. Users like that it burns both DVD and CD at decent speeds.
Pros
- Includes vertical stand
- Good software bundle
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
Cons
- Some users report loud noise
- Build feels less premium
Seagate Portable DVD Writer
The Seagate Portable DVD Writer is a clean, simple external drive. It connects via USB C and is bus-powered. It supports DVD and CD read and write. The design is understated, and it is easy to carry. Some users mention that it requires a stable power source.
Pros
- Sleek and minimal design
- Portable and lightweight
- No external power needed
Cons
- No included software
- Plastic casing may scratch
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Interface | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ASUS ZenDrive U9M | USB C and USB A (with adapter) | Best overall for its slim design and M-DISC support | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | LG GP65NB60 | USB C (cable included) | Best for budget-friendly reliability | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | Pioneer BDR-XD07B | USB C (bus-powered) | Best for Blu-ray burning and playback | 9.2 | Check price |
| 4 | HP External DVD Drive | USB C (non-removable cable) | Best for simple plug and play on Windows | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Apple USB SuperDrive | USB A (requires adapter for USB C) | Best for Mac users who want a compact official option | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | Buffalo MediaStation USB C | USB C (cable included) | Best for versatility with multiple disc formats | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Seagate Portable DVD Writer | USB C (bus-powered) | Best for a minimalist design with reliable performance | 8.3 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
Can I use a USB C optical drive with a USB A port?
Yes, if you have the right cable or adapter. Many drives come with a USB C cable, but you can use a USB C to USB A adapter. Some drives include both cables.
Do USB C optical drives work with MacBooks?
Most work with MacBooks, but check compatibility. Some drives are designed for Windows only and may require third-party software on Mac. Apple’s SuperDrive is Mac-specific.
Can I watch Blu-ray movies on my laptop with a USB C Blu-ray drive?
Yes, but you need compatible software. Many Blu-ray drives include playback software. However, some players may not play protected discs without additional software licenses.
Are USB C optical drives fast enough for burning?
They are generally fast enough. Typical write speeds range from 8x to 16x for DVD. Higher speeds reduce burning time. However, speed is also limited by the disc quality.
Do I need to install drivers for a USB C optical drive?
Most modern drives are plug and play on Windows and Mac. They do not require extra drivers. Some advanced features may need bundled software.
What is M-DISC support and why is it important?
M-DISC is a type of disc designed for long-term data preservation. Drives with M-DISC support can burn these discs, which resist degradation over time. This is useful for archiving important files.
Can a USB C optical drive read audio CDs?
Yes, all external optical drives can read audio CDs. You can rip them to MP3 or play them with media player software.
Why is my USB C optical drive not recognized?
Check if the USB port provides enough power. Some drives need more power than a single USB C port can provide. Try connecting to a different port or using a powered hub. Also, ensure the drive is compatible with your operating system.
Final word
If you need a reliable daily driver for DVD and CD tasks, the ASUS ZenDrive U9M is our top recommendation. It balances portability, features, and quality. For those who need Blu-ray support, the Pioneer BDR-XD07B is the best investment. If you are on a tight budget, the LG GP65NB60 offers dependable performance at a lower cost.
