Best External CD/DVD Drives with USB‑C Connectivity

TL;DR: The Asus ZenDrive V1M packs a retractable 24 cm USB‑C cable, M‑DISC support and cross‑platform compatibility into a 0.75 lb, 15.24 mm‑thin drive priced at $39.99.

This drive’s standout feature is the built‑in 24 cm USB‑C cable that folds into the chassis, eliminating a loose cord and keeping a thin laptop bag tidy. At 0.75 lb (340 g) and only 15.24 mm high, it still feels solid enough for frequent travel, and it runs entirely off the USB‑C port, so you won’t need an external power brick.

Compared with the other ten options, the ZenDrive V1M is a bit heavier than the Alxum Laptop External CD Drive (0.56 lb) and the Origbelie model (0.46 lb), but it weighs only marginally more than the PeroBuno (0.70 lb) and Roofull (0.66 lb). Its 167.64 mm length exceeds the 140 mm depth of the Alxum and the roughly 148 mm length of the Origbelie, making it one of the longer units in the set. Unlike most rivals, it uniquely offers a retractable cable and native M‑DISC archival capability, features that aren’t listed for the other drives.

User feedback consistently highlights the convenience of the self‑storing cable and the confidence that comes from M‑DISC support, which promises up to 1,000‑year archival storage. Reviewers also appreciate the smooth operation on both Windows 8/10/11 and macOS without needing a separate power adapter. A few owners note the price tag feels premium compared with budget‑oriented alternatives, but most consider the added durability and software bundle worth the extra cost.

Beyond the cable, the ZenDrive V1M reads audio CDs at 10X speed and handles dual‑layer DVDs and M‑DISC media. It ships with CyberLink Power2Go, PowerBackup 2, Nero BackItUp and Windows‑only E‑Green utilities, giving you a ready‑to‑burn solution right out of the box.

Best for: Professionals and students using thin USB‑C laptops who need on‑the‑go DVD/CD playback and reliable archival storage.

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic disc reading without extra features.

TL;DR: The Ziweo External DVD Drive offers 5 Gbps dual USB‑C/3.0 connectivity, 24× CD and 8× DVD speeds, and a bus‑powered, shock‑proof design for $23.99, though its fixed cable limits flexibility.

The drive’s standout spec is its 5 Gbps data‑transfer speed, which it delivers through both a USB‑C and a USB 3.0 port, letting you move large disc images quickly. Its ultra‑thin chassis measures 20.3 mm in height and 162.6 mm square in length and width, giving it a solid footprint while staying portable enough for a laptop bag.

Compared with the other ten models, Ziweo is longer than the Origbelie unit, which lists a 148 mm length, and its 20.3 mm height exceeds Roofull’s 0.69‑inch profile. Like Roofull, Origbelie and Yotuo, it also supports a 5 Gbps transfer rate, but Ziweo’s fixed, non‑detachable cables differ from Yotuo’s recessed cable design, offering less placement freedom than some rivals.

Users consistently praise the drive for quick, dependable CD/DVD burning and quiet operation, noting that the plug‑and‑play setup works straight out of the box on Windows and macOS. Professional reviewers highlight the 24× CD and 8× DVD read/write speeds as “rapid” for everyday media tasks. However, several owners mention occasional driver prompts and incompatibility with Chromebooks, Surface Pro tablets, and Ubuntu Linux, which can be a hurdle for those platforms.

Beyond speed, the drive is bus‑powered, so you won’t need an external adapter, and its shock‑proof housing keeps it safe during travel. An emergency eject hole and a pop‑up button make disc removal easy, while the low‑noise motor suits shared workspaces.

Best for: Value-conscious buyers seeking quality at $23.99

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The Origbelie External DVD Drive packs a 13 mm ultra‑slim profile, 5 Gbps USB‑C hub and 207 g portability into a single unit for $19.99, earning a solid 4.3‑star rating from 869 reviewers.

This drive’s standout spec is its 13 mm height combined with a built‑in 6‑in‑1 USB 3.0 hub that delivers up to 5 Gbps (625 MB/s) data transfer. The hub adds two Type‑C ports, a Type‑A port and both SD and MicroSD card slots, letting you connect peripherals without extra adapters. A 2 MB cache and 24× CD / 8× DVD read‑write speeds round out the performance package.

Compared with the other ten drives in the roundup, the Origbelie sits in the middle of the weight range. At 207 g (0.46 lb) it’s heavier than Yotuo’s feather‑light 30 g design, but noticeably lighter than Alronly (0.55 lb), Roofull (300 g), Wbacon (357 g), and Jknjx (≈0.7 lb). It costs more than the budget‑focused Yotuo and Jknjx, yet stays below the premium‑priced Roofull, positioning it as a mid‑range option.

Users consistently praise the drive’s portability and quiet operation, noting that the anti‑skid rubber pads keep it stable on desks. Professional reviewers call it a “true all‑rounder,” highlighting the USB‑C speed advantage—about ten times faster than legacy USB 2.0. The built‑in RGB LED adds a touch of style, while Lightscribe support lets you label compatible discs directly.

Additional technical touches include error‑correction, noise‑reduction technology and shock‑resistance, and a one‑year warranty backs them. Plug‑and‑play works on Windows, Linux and macOS, so you won’t need extra drivers for most systems.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range

TL;DR: The Roofull USB‑C external CD/DVD drive offers 5 Gbps USB 3.0 speeds, 24× CD and 8× DVD performance, and a lightweight 0.66 lb design for laptops at $24.64.

The “up to 5 Gbps (625 MB/s)” data‑transfer rate puts the Roofull drive in the same high‑speed class as many USB‑C optical drives. At just 0.66 lb (300 g) and a slim 0.69‑in height, it’s easy to slip into a bag or keep on a desk while you’re on the go.

Compared with the other ten entries, Roofull is heavier than the ultra‑light Yotuo model (about 0.07 lb) but lighter than the BPAKDU unit that lists 13.7 oz. It also sits between the Origbelie drive (≈0.46 lb) and the bulkier BPAKDU in terms of heft. In the data‑transfer department, it matches the 5 Gbps rate found on the Ziweo and Origbelie drives, while a few rivals such as Alronly also hit that speed.

Users repeatedly praise the drive’s reliability and quiet operation, noting that the 24× CD and 8× DVD read/write speeds feel swift for everyday tasks. Professional reviewers note that the built‑in force‑eject button provides a handy safeguard against jammed discs. However, several owners mention having to reach for the included USB‑C adapter on newer laptops, and the lack of Blu‑ray or 4K disc support limits its use for high‑definition media.

On the technical side, the drive works with Windows 11/10/8.1/7, Linux and macOS 10.16+, drawing power from a single USB port. It features both USB‑A and USB‑C connectors, a force‑eject button, and an 18‑month warranty for peace of mind.

Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option

Avoid if: You need Blu‑ray or 4K disc support, or plan to use the drive with Chromebooks or other low‑power devices

TL;DR: The Alronly External CD Drive packs a 5 Gbps USB‑C connection, dual‑port power delivery and a 2.5‑inch SATA dock into a 0.55‑lb, 0.79‑inch‑thick chassis for $15.59.

The standout feature is its dedicated USB‑C power port paired with a second USB‑C data connector, letting you power the drive while transferring data at up to 5 Gbps. Combined with 24x CD and 8x DVD speeds, the drive handles legacy media quickly without needing an external power brick.

Compared with the other ten drives, the Alronly is lighter than the Wbacon (357 g) and the Roofull (0.66 lb) but heavier than the ultra‑light Yotuo (30 g). Its 0.79‑inch thickness is slimmer than Wbacon’s 1.14‑inch profile and comparable to the Origbelie’s 13 mm (0.51 in) design, while its 6.5‑inch width matches the Jknjx and exceeds the Roofull’s 5.59‑inch width. Unlike many peers, Alronly adds a full‑size SD slot, a microSD slot and two USB‑A ports, giving it the most assorted port mix in the group.

Users appreciate the plug‑and‑play setup and the fact that it fits easily into a laptop bag, noting fast shipping and reliable playback even on scratched discs. Professional reviewers highlight the “highly flexible” SATA docking bay and the slim profile as ideal for modern laptops. The main complaints involve needing third‑party software such as VLC for DVD movies and occasional power‑delivery hiccups on low‑output USB ports, especially on devices that can’t supply enough juice through a single connector.

Additional technical context includes an anti‑skid rubber base that keeps the drive steady on a desk, a dedicated power port that removes the need for a separate charger, and a data transfer rate that’s roughly ten times faster than legacy USB 2.0 connections. The drive supports Windows XP through 11 and macOS, but it doesn't work with Chromebooks, tablets, car infotainment systems or TVs.

Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance, or you plan to use the drive with Chromebooks, tablets, car systems or TVs

TL;DR: The Yotuo External CD DVD Drive packs a 5 Gbps USB‑C connection, 24× CD and 8× DVD speeds into a 30 g, 16 mm‑thin chassis that slides into a fleece pouch for ultra‑portable use.

What really stands out is the drive’s ultra‑slim profile – just 16 mm tall, 150 mm deep and 139 mm wide – while weighing only 30 g. That combination of size and weight makes it easy to stash in a laptop bag or even a pocket. The unit also supports 5 Gbps data transfer, letting you move files quickly over USB 3.0 Type‑C, and it handles 24× CD read/write and 8× DVD read speeds.

Compared with the other ten drives in this roundup, Yotuo is noticeably lighter than the Wbacon model (357 g) and the Alronly option (0.55 lb). Its 16 mm height is slimmer than many competitors that sit around 0.6 in to 0.7 in, yet it still offers the same 5 Gbps transfer rate that most peer devices provide. While several rivals list dual USB‑C ports or additional card slots, Yotuo keeps the connection simple with a single recessed USB‑C/3.0 cable, which many users appreciate for its plug‑and‑play ease.

Reviewers consistently praise the drive’s portability and the included soft fleece pouch, calling the slim chassis a “standout feature for travelers and students.” Professional reviewers also note the flame‑retardant, shock‑resistant PC housing as a durability plus. The most common complaint is the inconsistency in reported dimensions and weight across different listings, which can make it hard to know exactly what you’ll receive. Users also wish there were more details on noise and heat during operation.

Beyond the physical specs, the drive offers broad OS compatibility – Windows 7‑11, macOS, MacBook Pro/Air and Linux – and a true plug‑and‑play experience that doesn't require driver installation. Its recessed cable design helps keep the setup tidy, and the flame‑retardant, scratch‑resistant material adds a premium feel despite the budget price.

Best for: Shoppers on a tight budget who want the most for their money

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The BPAKDU B31‑Y2 is a 0.63‑inch‑high, 13.7‑oz external CD/DVD drive that doubles as a 5‑port USB‑C hub and includes SD/TF card readers, offering solid speed and strong user ratings for a portable setup.

This drive’s most eye‑catching spec is its ultra‑slim profile – just 0.63 inches tall, 5.6 inches wide and 6.0 inches long – while weighing only 13.7 oz. It packs a 4‑port USB 3.0 Type‑A hub, a USB 3.0 Type‑C port, and SD + TF card slots, giving you eight functions in one brick. The interface runs at up to 5 Gbps, and the drive handles 24× CD and 8× DVD read/write speeds, with a maximum read capacity of 8.5 GB.

Compared with other options in this roundup, the BPAKDU is slimmer than the Roofull model’s 0.69‑inch height, though it’s a touch longer at 6.0 inches versus Roofull’s 5.79 inches. It’s heavier than the ultra‑light Yotuo unit (0.066 lb) and the Origbelie drive (0.456 lb), but its added weight brings a sturdier feel and a built‑in 5‑port hub that many peers lack. While several competitors only list a single USB‑C connector, BPAKDU gives you four Type‑A ports plus the Type‑C port for extra peripherals.

Reviewers consistently praise the drive’s portability – the slim chassis slides easily into a laptop bag – and its versatility as an 8‑in‑1 accessory. However, users note that the front USB ports can feel unstable, sometimes requiring the optional external power cord for reliable operation. The 8.5 GB read limit also means you can’t mount larger disc images, and the SD and TF slots cannot be used at the same time, which some find inconvenient.

Technical details round out the picture: the drive supports Windows 11/10/8/7/XP/2003/Vista, macOS (all versions) and Linux, and it ships with a carrying case and power cord. BPAKDU backs the product with a 12‑month warranty, reinforcing confidence in its build quality.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The Wbacon 7‑in‑1 External CD/DVD Drive delivers 5 Gbps USB‑C connectivity, 8× DVD read/write speeds and a built‑in USB hub in a compact 357 g package for $15.99.

What sets this drive apart is its 7‑in‑1 hub: it packs USB 3.0, USB 2.0, two Type‑C ports, an SD slot, a TF slot and a power port, giving you seven ports total. The data transfer rate tops out at up to 5 Gbps (625 MB/s) and the buffer memory is listed at 0.5 MB, while read speeds reach 8× for DVD and 24× for CD.

Compared with the other ten models in the roundup, the Wbacon is heavier than the ultra‑light Yotuo (30 g) and the Alronly drive (0.55 lb), but its 357 g weight's still modest for a full‑size optical unit. Its 5 Gbps transfer speed matches the majority of rivals such as Alronly, Yotuo, Jknjx, Origbelie and Roofull, and it offers more built‑in ports than many single‑port competitors.

Users consistently praise the plug‑and‑play convenience and the added hub functionality, noting that the drive “adds DVD/CD read/write capability plus a USB hub” without extra software hassles. Professional reviewers highlight the reliable 8× DVD and 24× CD speeds, while a common complaint is that the packaging lists slightly different dimensions, leaving the exact size a bit uncertain. The drive supports Windows, macOS and Linux, but Blu‑ray support isn’t native.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option

TL;DR: The PeroBuno External DVD Drive packs an 8‑in‑1 hub, 5 Gbps USB 3.0, Ethernet, and dual card slots into a 0.7 lb unit, but its $49.99 price is higher than many rivals.

It combines a full‑size DVD/CD burner with two USB‑A 3.0 ports, two USB‑C 3.0 ports, an extra USB‑A 2.0 port, an Ethernet adapter capped at 100 Mbps, and dual SD/TF card slots (though not simultaneous). The USB 3.0 data‑transfer rate hits 5 Gbps (625 MB/s), so moving large video files is swift. At just 0.7 lb (317.5 g) and a depth of 147.27 mm, the unit stays portable, and a sturdy carrying case comes with it for travel.

Compared with the other ten drives, the PeroBuno is a bit heavier than Roofull’s 0.66 lb model and deeper than Alxum’s 140 mm chassis, but it offers more built‑in ports than many competitors that only list a single USB‑C connection. Its Ethernet capability, while limited to 100 Mbps, still adds functionality that several peers lack entirely. Price‑wise, it sits in a premium tier, making it pricier than several budget‑focused options in the lineup.

User feedback repeatedly mentions the quiet operation during disc burning, which professional reviewers also praised as “really quiet.” Reviewers highlight the plug‑and‑play setup as hassle‑free, and many call the extra USB ports and Ethernet jack a strong value add. On the downside, some users report occasional compatibility hiccups with older operating systems, and the DVD‑burning speed of up to 8× (and CD‑burning up to 24×) describes it as adequate but not class‑leading for power users.

The technical specs round out the picture: it supports CD±R/RW, DVD±R/RW, DVD‑ROM, VCD and SVCD formats, and works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS and Ubuntu. The USB connection draws power entirely, so you don’t need an external adapter, and the device carries a one‑year manufacturer warranty.

Best for: Travelers, remote workers, and laptop owners who value a versatile, quiet, and portable solution with extra connectivity.

Avoid if: You need the cheapest option, top‑tier burning speeds, or gigabit Ethernet performance.

TL;DR: The Alxum External CD Drive delivers 24× CD and 8× DVD burning, a 5 Gbps USB‑C link, and a built‑in hub in a 0.56‑lb, portable package for $41.94.

What really stands out is the 5 Gbps data‑transfer rate paired with 24× CD write speed and 8× DVD write speed, all while weighing just 0.562 lb (255 g). Its chassis measures 140 mm deep, 150 mm high and 18 mm wide, making it slim enough to slip into a laptop bag.

Compared with the ten other drives in this roundup, the Alxum is lighter than the Asus ZenDrive (≈0.75 lb) and Roofull model (≈0.66 lb) but a bit heavier than the Origbelie option (≈0.46 lb). Its price of $41.94 sits above many budget‑oriented peers, though it matches the common 5 Gbps transfer speed found in PeroBuno, BPAKDU, Roofull, Ziweo and Origbelie. In terms of connectivity, Alxum offers three USB 2.0 ports, one USB 3.0 port and a USB‑C port, plus SD and micro‑SD slots. That’s fewer high‑speed ports than PeroBuno, which provides two USB‑C 3.0, two USB‑A 3.0 and one USB‑A 2.0, but the integrated hub still covers most on‑the‑go needs.

Professional reviewers praise the drive’s “excellent choice for multiple device connectivity on the go,” noting the smooth plug‑and‑play experience across Windows 11/10/8/7/2000/XP, Linux and macOS 10. Everyday users echo this sentiment, saying the hub eliminates the need for separate adapters when transferring photos from cameras. Users report that the drive sometimes needs an external power cable on low‑power USB ports, and its incompatibility with Chromebooks or Windows Surface devices limits its appeal for those platforms.

Beyond burning, the Alxum includes a SATA 2.5″ interface for direct drive connections, a micro‑SD card slot, an SD slot, and a USB‑powered design that avoids a separate wall adapter in most scenarios. The mutual recording feature (SATA‑to‑CD and SD‑to‑CD) adds a niche but handy way to copy media without a computer.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The Jknjx External DVD Drive offers USB‑C and USB‑A connectivity, a built‑in 4‑port hub, and card readers for $12.99, but its modest 3.9‑star rating and heavier body may limit appeal for power users.

The drive’s standout feature is its integrated USB‑C/Type‑A cable, eliminating the need for a separate adapter, and it pushes data at 5 Gbps. It measures 1.0 in in height and 6.5 in square in length and width, while weighing 0.7 lbs. The unit also includes four USB ports and two TF/SD card slots, letting you attach peripherals without reaching for extra hubs.

At $12.99, it lands on the cheaper side of the eleven‑product roundup. Compared with the Alronly model, which weighs 0.55 pounds, the Jknjx is a bit heavier, and it also tips the scales against the ultra‑light Yotuo (0.0661386786 pounds) and Origbelie (0.455915957816 pounds). It’s slightly lighter than the Wbacon drive (357 g) but comparable to Roofull’s 0.661386786 pounds. Where it shines is the number of USB ports – four in total – a higher count than many peers that list fewer or unspecified ports. The integrated cable also gives it an edge over fixed‑cable models like Ziweo.

User feedback highlights the plug‑and‑play convenience of the bus‑powered design and the usefulness of the built‑in hub and card readers. Reviewers appreciate that the design doesn't require an external power brick, but they also note the 3.9/5‑star rating and 140 reviews suggest mixed satisfaction. The listed CD read speed of 24× and DVD write speed of 8× prove adequate for occasional burning but may feel slow for high‑volume tasks.

Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance