10 Best External CD Burners: Top Picks for 2024

In 2024, finding the best external CD burner is essential for music enthusiasts, data archivers, and anyone looking to transfer files quickly and efficiently. With digital downloads being the norm, there’s still a significant need for reliable and high-quality external CD burners, whether it’s for creating music compilations, backing up vital data, or enjoying classic CDs. This article will explore the top 10 products available on Amazon, ensuring you find the best external CD burner to meet your needs.

1. LG WH16NS40 Super Multi Blue Internal Blu-ray Writer

The LG WH16NS40 is a versatile external CD burner that can handle a variety of formats, including Blu-ray, DVD, and CD. With a sleek design and robust performance, it is a favorite among users who seek versatility in their external drives. It offers a fast write speed of up to 16x for Blu-ray discs, making it a top choice for those looking to burn large amounts of data quickly.

Another notable feature of this device includes its M-DISC support, which allows users to archive data for decades, making it an excellent option for long-term storage solutions. The drive’s SATA interface ensures quick data transfers, and it comes with user-friendly software to enhance the burning experience. The price point of this external CD burner is reasonable, considering its capabilities.

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2. ASUS ZenDrive U7M

This compact ASUS ZenDrive U7M is ideal for those who need portability without sacrificing performance. Weighing just a few ounces, this device is perfect for users who are always on the go. It supports various disc formats, including CD, DVD, and Blu-ray, and offers a remarkable read speed of up to 8x for CDs.

The ZenDrive also features a USB 2.0 port for easy connectivity, making it compatible with laptops and PCs alike. Another notable feature is the proprietary Auto Run function, which makes it easier to organize and access your files efficiently. If you need a powerful yet compact solution, the ASUS ZenDrive is highly recommended.

Bestseller No. 1
ASUS ZenDrive Ultra Slim USB 2.0 External 8X DVD Optical Drive +/-RW with M-Disc Support for Windows and Mac and Nero BackItUp for Android Devices (SDRW-08U7M-U/BLK/G/AS),Black
  • 8X DVD write speed, ASUS ZenDrive U7M provides a complete, easy-to-use backup solution.
  • ASUS ZenDrive U7M has an ultra-slim, 13mm form factor, making it the perfect companion to thin and light laptops.
  • M-disc is designed to protect your memories from degradation and data loss for 1, 000 years or more.
  • Nero backup full back up solution for Android devices.Operating temperature : 5 ℃ to 40 ℃
  • Windows and Mac compatible

3. Pioneer BDR-XD05B Portable Blu-ray Writer

The Pioneer BDR-XD05B is a powerhouse designed for users who demand speed and performance. This external CD burner not only burns CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs but also supports M-DISC for data longevity. Its compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable, perfect for travel.

One of its standout features is its capability of writing Blu-ray discs at 6x speed and DVDs at 8x. This level of efficiency ensures you’re not stuck waiting long for your media to be transferred. Additionally, it includes robust software that enhances its usability, making it a top contender for the best external CD burner on the market.

Bestseller No. 1
Pioneer Electronics USA Slim External Blu Ray Drive BDR-XD05B Black
  • Slim external Blu Ray writer
  • Clam shell design
  • Usb 3.0
  • Slim and lightweight

4. Dell DW316 External USB Slim DVD R/W

The Dell DW316 is a sleek and budget-friendly external CD burner that provides reliable performance without breaking the bank. This simple plug-and-play device supports various disc formats, including CD, DVD, and DVDRW, making it a versatile choice for everyday use.

What sets this drive apart is its lightweight and slim design, making it an excellent choice for users who travel or work in limited spaces. Despite its affordability, the DW316 offers decent burn speeds up to 8x for DVD-R and 24x for CD-R, making it a solid option for casual or light users.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Dell USB DVD Drive-DW316 , Black
  • Dvdrw (R DL)/ DVD-RAM
  • 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVD) read speed
  • 24x (CD)/ 8x (DVDR)/ 6x (DVDR DL) write speed

5. Apple USB SuperDrive

If you are a Mac user, the Apple USB SuperDrive is arguably the best external CD burner for your needs. This stylish and compact device provides seamless integration with macOS systems, offering a straightforward solution for burning CDs and DVDs.

The SuperDrive features a built-in USB cable, ensuring a clean design without extra wires. While it’s designed specifically for Apple products, it can also work with Windows PCs but with limited functionality. With a burn speed of up to 8x for DVDs and 24x for CDs, this drive upholds Apple’s tradition of quality and design. For Apple enthusiasts, this is an essential accessory.

Bestseller No. 1
NOLYTH External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop: USB 3.0/USB-C Burner for Windows 11/10 & Mac OS with 2 USB/SD/TF Slot - Portable Slim Plug & Play DVD±RW for PC Apple MacBook Pro/Air(Silver-White)
  • Ultra-thin and Lightweight: At just 0.7 inches thick and 0.66 pounds, the NOLYTH external CD/DVD drive for laptop is ultra-light and portable, you can easily carry this CD drive in your backpack and use it with your laptop wherever you go. Its brushed white case and silver aluminium top plate provide a stylish look, perfect for your Mac/MacBook
  • 4-in-1 Multi-functional Interface: In addition to being an external DVD drive, it also doubles as a USB HUB with 2 USB ports, 1 SD card slot and 1 TF card slot compatible with USB hard drive, wired/wireless mouse & keyboard and other USB computer accessories. The SD/TF card slot is perfect for transferring photo and video files from your camera cards to your computer (NOTE: SD/TF card not included)
  • High Speed Writing and Reading: The NOLYTH external CD drive supports high speed reading and writing for both CDs and DVDs. It is capable of a max 8X DVD+/-R write speed and 8X DVD read speed. With a max 24X CD-R write speed and 24X CD read speed, this CD burner supports CD-ROM, CD±R/RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD±R/RW, VCD and SVCD
  • Plug and Play for Windows/Mac OS: This USB CD/DVD external drive is easy to use. Simply plug it into your laptop's USB or USB C port on the data cable, insert a disc, this DVD burner will be automatically detected and you can then use the corresponding software to read and write the discs without any complex settings. Please ensure that your laptop has a DVD playback programme or application. For Mac systems, please note that the computer will not display the device icon until the disc has been inserted and successfully read
  • Wide Compatibility: This DVD player for laptop is compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/7/Vista/XP/98/SE/ME/2000, Linux, and Mac OS. It is perfect for Apple laptop, Mac, MacBook Air/Pro, iMac, Mac mini and various PC, desktop, all-in-one computer. For desktops, please connect the DVD drive to the back USB port of the host to to avoid power shortage. NOTE: This USB C superdrive for Apple is not compatible with Chromebook, TV, Car, Tablet, iPad, PS4/5, Xbox, Switch, Projectors, Surface (some models) and Blu-ray/4K disc

6. Buffalo BRXL-PC6U3-BK USB 3.0 Portable Blu-ray Drive

The Buffalo BRXL-PC6U3-BK is built for speed, featuring a USB 3.0 connection for rapid data transfer. This external CD burner offers support for various disc formats, including CD, DVD, and Blu-ray. Its lightweight and portable design makes it perfect for those who need a reliable burner on the go.

This model is capable of burning Blu-ray discs at up to 6x and DVDs at 8x, ensuring efficiency for larger files. The included software helps you burn and manage your media easily, making it a strong candidate for the best external CD burner of 2024.

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7. LG GP65NB60 Slim Portable DVD Writer

The LG GP65NB60 is another excellent external CD burner, known for its slim design and affordability. It is particularly favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in reading and writing CDs and DVDs with a level of ease that is hard to beat.

This device provides a fairly quick burn speed of up to 8x for DVDs and up to 24x for CDs, making it a good option for users who need a straightforward solution without additional features. Its compatibility with various systems, including Windows and Mac, is an added advantage. Users enjoy its reliability and ease of use for everyday tasks.

SaleBestseller No. 1
LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +/-RW External Drive with M-DISC Support - Black
  • 14 millimeter height ultra slim portable DVD writer drive
  • USB 2.0 interface (upto 480Mbits/s, USB 3.0 Compatible)
  • Max 8x DVDR write speed
  • Max 24x CD write speed
  • Slim design. Video memory requirement:64 MB or higher (128 MB recommended)

8. Samsung SE-208GB/RSBS USB 2.0 External DVD Writer

The Samsung SE-208GB is a stylish external CD burner that combines functionality with a compact design. It utilizes a USB 2.0 interface for compatibility with multiple devices and supports CD, DVD, and Blu-ray burning.

This device is lightweight and portable, which makes it an excellent companion for laptops or users on the go. Burn speeds are decent, reaching up to 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs. Users appreciate its quiet operation and durability, making it a reliable choice for occasional users.

Bestseller No. 1
Inovat Replacement USB Computer PC Data Sync Transfer Charger Cable Cord for Samsung SE-208DB/TSBS 8X Slim Portable DVD Writer DVD+/-RW USB External Drive
  • Features: Length: 3FT, Color: Black
  • Connect Type: USB 2.0 Type A to Mini 5-Pin Type B.
  • Durablity Design: Perfect connection with your equipment, no gaps or static electricity
  • Hi-Speed Syncing: Transfer data to and from your USB-C compatible computer at speeds of up to 480Mbps
  • Compatibility: Perfect for you to tranfer data to a computer fastly. Compatible with Samsung SE-208DB/TSBS 8X Slim Portable DVD Writer DVD+/-RW USB External Drive

9. Verbatim External Slim DVD Writer

The Verbatim External Slim DVD Writer is a budget-friendly option with core burning capabilities. Compact and easy to carry, this drive is compatible with Mac and Windows systems and can burn DVDs, CDs, and ISO files.

Although it doesn’t have the highest write speeds (up to 8x for DVDs), it offers reliability for casual use. Its USB interface allows for straightforward connectivity, and it comes with Nero software for user-friendly operations. For someone looking for a no-frills burner, this is an excellent choice.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Verbatim 98938 Portable External CD Drive, USB 2.0 Portable CD/DVD +/-RW Drive Slim DVD/CD ROM Rewriter Burner for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 8/10/11 Apple MacOS 10.6 or Higher, USB Powered - Black
  • Efficient CD Burner: This slim line external cd drive functions as a reliable cd burner, offering seamless burning capabilities for your data storage needs while maintaining a sleek design.
  • Versatile DVD Player for Laptop: Our external dvd drive for laptop serves as a versatile dvd player, ensuring compatibility with various formats, making it a convenient addition to your multimedia setup.
  • Compact External CD & DVD Drives: Experience the convenience of compact external cd & dvd drives that are designed to easily connect to your laptop via USB, providing a user-friendly solution for all your media requirements.
  • USB Powered External CD Drive: This usb dvd drive external is powered by your laptop's USB port, eliminating the need for additional power sources, making it an ideal cd drive for laptop users on the go.
  • Reliable CD Reader for Laptop: Our external cd drive for laptop is a dependable cd reader, ensuring smooth data access and playback, making it an essential external drive for both office and home use.

10. ROOFULL USB 3.0 External CD/DVD Drive

Last on our list is the ROOFULL USB 3.0 External CD/DVD Drive, a plug-and-play option that excels in compatibility across different devices. Featuring a sleek metallic design, this external burner supports a wide range of formats and is capable of burning records quickly and effectively.

The USB 3.0 interface ensures faster data transfer compared to USB 2.0, making it a better choice if speed is a priority. It’s also praised for its durability and performance, even under more demanding conditions. This drive is suitable for both casual and more dedicated users who need a reliable burner for a variety of tasks.

SaleBestseller No. 1
ROOFULL External CD DVD +/-RW Drive USB 3.0 & USB-C CD Burner DVD Player Reader Writer Optical Disc Drive with Carrying Case for Laptop Mac MacBook Pro/Air, Windows 11/10/8/7, Linux PC
  • 【Best External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop Mac】Considering that most of the latest laptop and desktop PCs are not equipped with an internal CD/DVD drive. This ROOFULL USB 3.0 external CD/DVD drive is a perfect solution for most computers to read and write CDs and DVDs. Just plug the data cable into your computer's USB-A or USB-C port, and insert your CDs or DVDs, it will install the driver and be recognized automatically, you can then use the corresponding software to read and write your discs, no complex settings, plug and play! (Scroll down to see detailed steps and recommended software)
  • 【Not Just CD/DVD-ROM】This is not just an external CD and DVD reader player, but also a fast CD & DVD burner writer rewriter recorder, and ripper. With this CD/DVD adapter, you can use media player app (e.g. VLC Player, Windows media player, Apple Music/iTunes, etc.) to read your collections of music CDs, movie DVDs, or self-burned discs; Use burning software to burn mp3 music, video, photos, or data to blank CDs or DVDs; Or use a ripping software to digitize/import music, video, photos, or files from CDs/DVDs to your computer. Furthermore, you can also use it to install software, games, and systems from CD or DVD discs
  • 【Wide Compatibility】This USB external CD/DVD drive for PC is compatible with Windows 11/ 10/ 8.1/ 7/ Vista/ XP/98/SE/ME/2000, Linux, and Mac OS. It seamlessly complements a variety of laptops, notebooks, desktops, and all-in-one computers from renowned brands like HP, LG, SAMSUNG, ASUS, DELL, ThinkPad, Microsoft, Apple MacBook, and more. Enjoy support for reading and writing CD+/-R, CD+/-RW, CD-ROM, DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW, DVD-RAM, VCD, and SVCD disks. (Note: Blu-ray and 4K discs are not supported, and it cannot work with ChromeOS, Ubuntu, TV, Car, Projector, Phone, iPad/Tablet, PS4/5, Xbox)
  • 【High-Speed Data Cable & Separate Power Cord】The data cable under the drive has USB 3.0 type-A and type-C two kinds of connectors on the end, making it easier to connect different laptops or desktop computers without an adapter required and no worries about losing the data cable. USB 3.0 is an updated version of USB 2.0 that provides faster data transfer rates of up to 5 Gigabits/s, approximately 10 times faster than USB 2.0. If the CD drive can't get enough power through a single data cable, use the attached power supply cord together to get extra power from a USB port on your PC or a USB power adapter/bank. (Note: The power cord is not a data cable, avoid using it independently.)
  • 【Excellent Performance】As a professional manufacturer with 10 years of experience dedicated to producing reliable-quality external CD/DVD drives. Each ROOFULL USB CD/DVD drive is equipped with a 100% brand-new movement that features strong error-correcting, low impedance, and anti-interference ability, guaranteeing stable, quiet, and smooth operation. In addition, all CD DVD players will go through strict testing processes before shipment to ensure the best condition. If the drive you received cannot work for any reason, just reach out to us for free tech support, a new device, or money back. (We provide up to 2 year-long after-sale)

Buying Guide for the Best External CD Burner

Choosing the right external CD burner can seem daunting given the plethora of options available in 2024. Here are some critical factors to consider during your buying journey:

1. Compatibility

Ensure that the external CD burner you choose is compatible with your operating system, whether it’s Windows, Mac, or Linux. Some devices may perform better with specific systems, while others offer cross-compatibility.

2. Formats Supported

Check if the burner supports the formats you’ll require, including CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, Blu-ray, and M-DISC. Having the ability to burn multiple formats is a significant advantage.

3. Speed

Look for burners that provide fast writing speeds. High-speed writes can save time, especially when dealing with larger file transfers. However, remember that write speeds can vary between disc types.

4. Portability

If you plan to travel with your external CD burner, consider its weight and design. Slim and lightweight options are easier to carry and use with laptops.

5. Power Source

Most external CD burners are powered through USB ports, but some may require an additional power source. It’s generally more convenient to choose a model with USB-powered operation, especially for travel.

6. Software

Many external burners come with bundled software that enhances burning and managing media. Consider a device that includes user-friendly software for easy data management and burning capabilities.

7. Customer Reviews

Before making a purchase, take the time to read customer reviews. Real-life user experiences can provide valuable insight into the performance, durability, and reliability of the product.

Conclusion

In summary, the best external CD burner can make a significant difference in managing your media files and data. Whether you need it for professional use, personal archiving, or to create music collections, the options available on Amazon are diverse and tailored to various needs. Each product listed in this article has been selected based on its performance, compatibility, and user satisfaction.

As of 2024, remember to evaluate your specific requirements to find the external CD burner that fits your lifestyle best. From portable options to high-capacity drives, there’s something for everyone in this essential category of tech products.

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