
HP
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The HP USB External DVDRW Drive is a slim, bus‑powered optical drive that adds CD/DVD read/write capability to computers lacking internal drives. It offers plug‑and‑play operation, dual‑layer DVD support, and broad compatibility across Windows, macOS, Chrome OS and Linux.
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Current
$49.99
Average
$49.99
Lowest
$49.99
Highest
$49.99
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From Expert Reviews
Praised by Experts
Criticized by Experts
From User Reviews
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Best For
Students, professionals, and IT administrators who need occasional CD/DVD reading or burning on laptops without internal drives; travelers and remote workers needing a lightweight, USB‑powered solution; Mac and ultrabook owners lacking an optical drive; users who require legacy OS support for software installation or archival tasks.
Not Ideal For
Power‑hungry users who rely on low‑current USB ports without a hub, users demanding high‑speed DVD writing for large media transfers, and those who need a native USB‑C connection without adapters.
Expert Opinion
Professional reviewers highlight the HP drive’s reputation for reliability, its truly plug‑and‑play simplicity, and its broad compatibility with both modern and legacy operating systems. While they note the DVD write speed isn’t cutting‑edge, they consider it more than adequate for occasional use and recommend it as a trusted, must‑have accessory for business and IT environments.
What Users Say
Everyday users consistently praise the drive’s ease of use, compact form factor, and dependable disc burning, especially on Mac and Windows 11 systems. Common complaints revolve around insufficient power from low‑current USB ports, occasional detection glitches after sleep, audible noise during burns, and the short USB‑A cable.
Common Complaints
Insufficient power from some USB ports. Drive not detected after sleep/wake cycles. Audible noise during burning. Short USB‑A cable and lack of USB‑C
What People Are Saying
“Works perfectly with my new MacBook Air — installed Windows drivers in seconds.”
“Takes up almost no space and burns DVDs reliably.”
How It Compares
vs. LG GP65NB60
Advantages
Disadvantages
Choose HP for superior portability and warranty; LG is comparable if thickness isn’t a concern.
vs. ASUS SDRW-08D2S-U
Advantages
Disadvantages
HP is better for users needing legacy OS support and ultra‑compact design; ASUS is a solid alternative if those factors are less critical.
vs. Samsung SE-208GB
Advantages
Disadvantages
HP is the preferred choice for durability and portability; Samsung offers similar performance but with a shorter warranty.