If you need a DVD drive but your computer doesn’t have one, don’t worry. There are numerous models on the market with an excellent relationship between the quality offered and the sale price.
Take a look at our ranking at the bottom: you will find the review of what are the best devices for us for this year. First, however, let’s examine some features in the guide that will help you get a clearer idea of the product you are about to buy.
Right below we had selected some of the best models of the external DVD drives.
External Dvd Drives Buyer Guide
Type and Technology
Most modern computers tend to eliminate the disc player inside which could also be useful for installing programs, watching DVDs or creating backup media. The best brand recorders differ from the others because they are also compatible with Blu-ray.
Therefore, if you have a collection at home that you have decided to burn or simply to watch when you have time, this is the type of reader/burner that might be right for you.
The others, those who only read/burn CDs and DVDs, however cheaper, risk proving to be a bad investment. As for technology, the most sophisticated models are equipped with a system capable of supporting 2D-3D conversion.
In other words, they manage to give greater depth to the images and the impression for the user will be to enjoy a three-dimensional film or show, almost as if he were at home or in the cinema wearing glasses.
Of course, the level of realism does not go that far but remains, however, higher than the two dimensions. During the read/write phase, there are many burners that generate an annoying noise that could become inappropriate in the late evening or in environments where silence is required such as a library.
That’s why the models most appreciated by consumers are those that, thanks to the latest technologies, are able to read and write on the disc in an incredibly silent way, ideal for using them anytime and anywhere.
Compatibility and Use
Not all burners are compatible with any operating system, so compare prices and performance but check if the model you like is suitable for the version of Windows or Mac you have.
Normally these devices are very simple to use because they are plug & play, so just connect them and they are immediately recognized by the operating system, there is no need to download programs or install drivers, ideal for those who are not a technology expert.
Sometimes it may happen that you have to burn a disc that is not in perfect condition and in this case a device capable of continuing playback even in the presence of scratches, fingerprints, damaged areas and incorrect data could be useful.
Many times, finally, users complain of excessive slowness in burning and, in this case, you may prefer models with USB 3.0 technology for a much faster data transfer.
Other Characteristics
Among the other features that could have a weight to choose your burner, there is the supported capacity, especially for those who want to buy a model compatible with Blu-ray.
In this case, the most capable devices are the so-called BDXL with a storage capacity that allows you to write even up to 128 GB.
The design could be another important element both from an aesthetic and functional point of view since light and the compact burner is easier and more comfortable to carry.
Finally, if you want to protect files, in particular, you may appreciate the function that allows you to hide them or the possibility of entering a password or, better yet, the presence of both.
How to Use an External Dvd Drive?
Today, external storage systems are extremely popular, such as USB sticks and hard drives, which are getting smaller and more performing.
Of course, this evolution has often had a negative impact on the further spread of burners, once widely used for storing files on media such as CDs and DVDs.
However, those who do not trust the durability of hard drives or practical USB sticks may still prefer the use of these products to secure photos, videos and important documents.
Right below we had shared the video guide on how to use the external DVD drive.
How to keep a DVD
The average length of CDs and DVDs varies according to the burn process and where they are stored. We usually recommend storing them in places that are not excessively humid or subject to extreme temperature changes.
Given the right conditions, a CD can last much longer than modern mechanical hard drives that often run into problems with reading and writing.
Even comparing them with USB sticks they come out with their heads held high. The latter, in fact, in contact with different computers could be infected with dangerous viruses that act without the user noticing.
Wiring
Now take the power cord, if it is provided, and connect it to the power outlet. You just have to use the USB cable to interface the recorder with your computer.
As a rule, since they are Plug & Play systems, all you have to do is wait for the automatic installation of the drivers. However, if a different procedure is indicated in the instruction booklet, we invite you to follow it carefully.
In fact, it may be necessary to access the manufacturer’s website to download the updated drivers necessary for the correct functioning of the device.
Burning Software
Once you have completed this essential step, you will have to obtain a burning software or use the extremely basic one of Windows.
It is possible to find free, performing and reliable ad hoc programs, however, our advice is to buy a dedicated one, perhaps equipped with a wizard (automated procedure) to guide you step by step in your first burns.
