HP F6V97AA
Score: 86/100
Asus ZenDrive V1M
Score: 81/100Rankings
The HP USB External DVDRW Drive is a compact, bus-powered optical drive that offers reliable CD/DVD read/write capability across a wide range of operating systems. Its ultra-slim design and 2-year warranty make it a solid choice for travelers and professionals who need occasional optical media access.
The ASUS ZenDrive V1M is a slim, USB-C external DVD-RW drive aimed at ultrabook users, featuring M-DISC archival support and an integrated cable for hassle-free portability, while delivering dependable CD/DVD performance.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 625 MB/sbest | |
8 Xbest | 8 Xbest | |
8 Xbest | 8 Xbest | |
24 Xbest | 24 Xbest | |
24 Xbest | 24 Xbest | |
24 monthsbest | 12 months | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 10 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | 200 gbest | 255 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(2) | ||
Supported Disc Formats | CD‑ROM, CD‑R, CD‑RW, DVD‑ROM, DVD±R, DVD±RW | DVD+R, DVD‑R, DVD+RW, DVD‑RW, DVD+R DL, DVD‑R DL, CD‑R, CD‑RW |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11, Server 2003, Server 2008; macOS 10.0+, Chrome OS, Linux | Windows, macOS |
General(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 24 months | 12 months |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 200 g | 255 g |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | USB Type‑A cable, Quick start guide, Warranty card | Built-in 24 cm USB‑C cable, CyberLink Power2Go 8, CyberLink PowerBackup 2.6, Nero BackItUp, E‑Green |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Interface Type | USB 2.0 | USB‑C 3.0 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
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, and the short USB-A cable.
Professional editors commend the ZenDrive V1M for its sleek design, built-in cable storage and rare M-DISC support, positioning it as a thoughtful accessory for modern ultrabooks.
Everyday users appreciate the drive's portability, integrated cable and reliable CD/DVD operation on Windows, though many note the short cable length and occasional macOS compatibility hiccups.
“Works perfectly with my new MacBook Air - installed Windows drivers in seconds.”
“Takes up almost no space and burns DVDs reliably.”
“Plug-and-play made it easy to install legacy software on a modern laptop.”
