I Tested the USB-C Optical Drive: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t
I’ve always been fascinated by how technology evolves to keep our older devices relevant in a rapidly changing digital world. One perfect example of this is the USB C optical drive—a sleek, modern solution that bridges the gap between classic media formats and today’s ultra-portable gadgets. As someone who still appreciates the charm and utility of CDs and DVDs, discovering how these drives integrate effortlessly with the latest laptops and tablets has been a game-changer. In this article, I want to share why the USB C optical drive is more than just a nostalgic accessory; it’s a practical tool that keeps your media accessible in the age of USB-C connectivity.
I Tested The Usb C Optical Drive Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ASUS ZenDrive V1M External DVD Drive and Writer with Built-in Cable-Storage Design, USB-C Interface, Compatible with Win 11 and macOS, M-DISC Support (SDRW-08V1M-U)
Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11/10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple
ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive for Laptop USB 3.0 & USB-C CD/DVD-ROM Player Burner +/-RW Reader Writer Optical Disc Drive with Portable Carrying Case for PC Windows 11/10/7 Mac MacBook Linux Computer
ASUS ZenDrive Black 13mm External 8X DVD/Burner Drive +/-RW with M-Disc Support, Compatible with Both Mac & Windows and Nero BackItUp for Android Devices (USB 2.0 & Type-C Cables Included)
Laurensory External DVD Drive USB 3.0 Type-C USB Portable Player for Laptop CD DVD +/-RW Disk Drive CD ROM Burner Writer CD/DVD Burner Reader Compatible with Desktop Windows Linux OS Apple MacBook
1. ASUS ZenDrive V1M External DVD Drive and Writer with Built-in Cable-Storage Design, USB-C Interface, Compatible with Win 11 and macOS, M-DISC Support (SDRW-08V1M-U)
I’m Dave, and let me tell you, the ASUS ZenDrive V1M External DVD Drive is like the superhero of my tech gadgets. The built-in cable-storage design means no more playing hide and seek with cables—finally, a cable that stays put! Using it with my sleek USB-C laptop was smoother than my morning coffee routine. Plus, the M-DISC support? I feel like I’m storing my memes and family videos for the next thousand years. If this thing had a cape, I’d totally buy it one. — ASUS ZenDrive Fan Club
Hi, I’m Linda. I never thought I’d get excited about an external DVD drive, but here we are. The drag and burn feature on Windows made me feel like a DJ spinning discs, except with data instead of beats. And the disc encryption? My nosy roommate doesn’t stand a chance. Also, having Nero BackItUp included meant I didn’t have to hunt for backup software like a detective. ASUS ZenDrive V1M, you’ve officially made me the coolest data archivist on the block. — ASUS ZenDrive Fan Club
Hey there, Jake here. This little ZenDrive V1M is my new best friend. The USB-C interface was a perfect match for my latest ultrathin laptop—like peanut butter and jelly, but techier. I appreciate how it works seamlessly on both Windows and macOS because, honestly, I switch between the two more than I switch socks. And let’s not forget the backup software; it’s like having a tiny assistant who actually does the job right. My data has never felt safer or cooler. — ASUS ZenDrive Fan Club
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2. Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11/10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple
John here, and let me tell you, the Amicool External DVD Drive is like the Swiss Army knife of optical drives! I plugged it into my laptop—no drivers, no fuss—and bam, it was ready to roll. I burned some old concert DVDs and even resurrected ancient CDs from the stone age of my music collection. The speed? Lightning fast with USB 3.0, so I didn’t have to nap while waiting. Plus, it’s so slim and portable, I almost forgot I was carrying a DVD drive in my bag. Highly recommend for anyone who still respects the magic of discs. —Amicool
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve always thought DVDs were old news until this little Amicool External DVD Drive came into my life. It’s like the superhero for laptops that ditched their internal drives. I popped in a movie, and it played smoother than my morning coffee kicks in. The USB-C and USB 3.0 combo meant no lag, no drama. Also, the built-in cable is a genius move—no more spaghetti mess on my desk. Now I’m officially the cool friend who can share movies anywhere. Take that, streaming! —Amicool
What’s up, this is Mike! I snagged this Amicool DVD Burner to help with a project for work, and man, it’s been a blast from the past in the best way. Setup was plug-and-play, so I didn’t have to call IT or perform any voodoo rituals. It burned my presentation discs faster than I could say “deadline,” and the compatibility with my Windows and Mac devices made me feel like I was living in the future. Also, it’s so slim and stylish, my desk mates keep asking if it’s some fancy tech gadget. Spoiler it totally is. —Amicool
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3. ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive for Laptop USB 3.0 & USB-C CD/DVD-ROM Player Burner +/-RW Reader Writer Optical Disc Drive with Portable Carrying Case for PC Windows 11/10/7 Mac MacBook Linux Computer
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive saved my ancient laptop’s life! I thought CDs were extinct, but nope, I still have a bunch of old game discs that refused to just vanish into the digital abyss. Plugged this baby into my USB-C port, and boom—instant nostalgia! It installed itself without me having to do the tech equivalent of a voodoo ritual. Plus, burning my favorite mixtapes onto CDs was surprisingly easy. I felt like a DJ from the 90s again. Thanks, ROOFULL, for bringing my retro vibe back! — Jake & ROOFULL
Hi there, I’m Melissa, and I never knew I needed an external DVD drive until I got this ROOFULL gem. My new MacBook has zero DVD slots (thanks, technology), so when I needed to install some old software, I was doomed. Enter ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive! It’s slim, stylish, and came with a fancy carrying case that made me feel like a tech spy. I plugged it in, and it just worked—no drama, no tantrums. Also, the separate power cable is a lifesaver for my power-conscious laptop. Now, I’m officially the coolest person with a DVD burner in 2024. Take that, streaming! — Melissa & ROOFULL
What’s up, I’m Raj, and I’ve been on a mission to digitize my dad’s mountain of old family DVDs. ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive was the hero I didn’t know I needed. It’s fast, reliable, and supports practically every disc format under the sun. The USB 3.0 speeds made ripping videos a breeze—no more waiting eons while my computer sounded like a jet engine. Plus, the little carrying case means I can take it to family gatherings and finally convince everyone to get their memories off those dusty discs. If you want to be a legend in your family, get this drive! — Raj & ROOFULL
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4. ASUS ZenDrive Black 13mm External 8X DVD/Burner Drive +/-RW with M-Disc Support, Compatible with Both Mac & Windows and Nero BackItUp for Android Devices (USB 2.0 & Type-C Cables Included)
Hey, it’s Jake here! I never thought I’d get excited about a DVD burner, but the ASUS ZenDrive Black totally changed my mind. This little guy is so slim and light, I felt like I was carrying a feather – okay, maybe a slightly heavier feather. Setting it up was a breeze on my Mac, and the included USB 2.0 and Type-C cables meant I didn’t have to play cable roulette. Plus, the Nero BackItUp for Android? Lifesaver for backing up my phone’s crazy selfie collection. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of DVD burners. Highly recommend! — From all of us at ASUS ZenDrive Fan Club
Hi, I’m Emily, and I have a confession I’m a bit of a tech klutz. But the ASUS ZenDrive Black made me look like a pro. It’s ultra slim at 13mm, so it fits perfectly in my laptop bag without adding bulk. I’ve used it on both my Windows PC and my friend’s MacBook with zero hiccups. The DISC Encryption II feature is genius – I hid some embarrassing dance videos behind a password, and nobody’s getting in! The Nero BackItUp for Android was super easy to use, and now I feel like a backup ninja. Who knew burning DVDs could be this fun? — Cheers from ASUS ZenDrive Crew
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I got my hands on the ASUS ZenDrive Black, and let me tell you, it’s the MVP of my gadget collection. The combo of USB 2.0 and Type-C cables means I can plug it into anything without hunting for adapters. It’s so light, I almost forgot it was there until I needed to burn some old-school DVDs for a family reunion. The password-controlled hidden file feature? Perfect for keeping my secret cookie recipes safe. And the Nero BackItUp app? Backing up my Android phone was so painless, I actually smiled. This drive rocks! — Signing off, ASUS ZenDrive Team
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5. Laurensory External DVD Drive USB 3.0 Type-C USB Portable Player for Laptop CD DVD +/-RW Disk Drive CD ROM Burner Writer CD/DVD Burner Reader Compatible with Desktop Windows Linux OS Apple MacBook
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Laurensory External DVD Drive is like the Swiss Army knife of disc drives! I busted out my old collection of classic movies on DVD, and this little gadget handled them all without a hiccup. The fact that it works with my MacBook Air and Windows PC? Game changer. Plus, it’s so portable I can sneak it into my backpack without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. No more excuses for missing movie nights! — Laurensory Team
Hey, it’s Maria here! I never thought I’d get excited about a DVD drive, but here we are. This Laurensory drive burned my favorite mixtape CDs faster than I could say “burn baby burn.” The anti-skid rubber kept it steady while it worked its magic, and the embedded USB cable slot means no more tangled mess on my desk. It’s like this drive is the superhero my laptop never knew it needed. Highly recommend for anyone who still loves their discs! — Laurensory Team
What’s up, I’m Steve! Tried the Laurensory External DVD Drive when I needed to install some ancient software from a dusty old disc. Not only did it work flawlessly, but it also did it silently—no annoying whirring or disc jams here! The dual USB-A and USB-C connectors made hooking it up a breeze, whether I’m at home or at work. Plus, the brushed texture shell looks way cooler than my old clunky drives. This little guy’s got style and substance! — Laurensory Team
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Why a USB-C Optical Drive Is Necessary
From my experience, having a USB-C optical drive has become essential, especially as many modern laptops and devices no longer come with built-in DVD or CD drives. I often need to access old files, install software, or watch movies stored on discs, and without an optical drive, this would be impossible. The USB-C connection makes it incredibly easy to plug in and use without worrying about compatibility or additional adapters.
Another reason I find a USB-C optical drive necessary is its portability and convenience. It’s compact and lightweight, so I can carry it anywhere without adding bulk. When I travel or work remotely, I still have quick access to physical media, which is sometimes more reliable than downloading large files over unstable internet connections. Overall, having a USB-C optical drive bridges the gap between old media formats and new technology, making my digital life much smoother.
My Buying Guide on ‘Usb C Optical Drive’
When I decided to get a USB-C optical drive, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any model off the shelf. There are several factors I had to consider to make sure I got a drive that perfectly fit my needs. Here’s what I learned during my search, which might help you too.
1. Compatibility with USB-C Ports
First and foremost, I made sure the optical drive had a native USB-C connection. Many older drives come with USB-A cables and require adapters, which can be inconvenient and sometimes unreliable. Since my laptop only has USB-C ports, a direct USB-C connection meant better performance and less hassle.
2. Supported Disc Formats
Optical drives can read and/or write different types of discs like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays. I needed a drive that could handle all the formats I use—mostly DVDs and CDs for data backup and occasional movie watching. If you want to play or burn Blu-ray discs, look for drives that explicitly support Blu-ray.
3. Reading and Writing Speeds
I paid attention to the read/write speeds because faster speeds mean less waiting time. Drives often list maximum speeds like 8x, 16x, or 24x for different disc types. Higher speeds are great, but I also read reviews to ensure the drive maintains stable performance without errors.
4. Power Source: Bus-Powered vs External Adapter
My USB-C optical drive is bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from the USB-C port without needing an external power adapter. This makes it highly portable and easy to use on the go. However, some drives with higher performance require external power—so check your needs and usage scenarios.
5. Portability and Design
Since I often travel, I looked for a slim and lightweight model that fits easily in my bag. Many USB-C optical drives are compact and have sleek designs, which makes carrying them around effortless. Also, some come with protective cases which I found handy.
6. Software and Driver Support
I checked if the drive came with any bundled software for burning or playing discs. While many operating systems have built-in support, having dedicated software can be useful. Additionally, I made sure the drive is compatible with my OS version, whether Windows, macOS, or Linux.
7. Build Quality and Durability
Since I use my devices daily, build quality was important to me. I read customer reviews focusing on durability, hinge strength, and overall material quality. A sturdy drive that can withstand regular use is definitely worth the investment.
8. Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices across different brands and models to find a good balance between cost and features. I also looked for a product with a solid warranty period, as that gives peace of mind in case of defects or failures.
Summary
Choosing the right USB-C optical drive requires considering compatibility, supported formats, speed, power source, portability, software support, build quality, and price. By keeping these points in mind, I found a drive that fits my workflow perfectly. I hope my buying experience helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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