HP F6V97AA
Score: 86/100
Unitek T037A
Score: 87/100Rankings
A 5-in-1 USB 3.0 external CD/DVD drive that adds a hub and SD reader, built with recycled materials and fast transfer rates, but limited device compatibility and modest build quality.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 625 MB/sbest | |
8 Xbest | 8 Xbest | |
8 Xbest | 8 Xbest | |
24 Xbest | 24 Xbest | |
24 Xbest | 24 Xbest | |
24 monthsbest | 24 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 200 gbest | 380 g |
1 ports | 4 portsbest |
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 | CD±R/RW, DVD±R/RW, DVD‑RAM, CD‑ROM, VCD, SVCD |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11, Server 2003, Server 2008; macOS 10.0+, Chrome OS, Linux | Windows 11/10/8/7/XP/Vista, Linux, macOS 10.6 or later |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 200 g | 380 g |
Form Factor | Slim external | Portable |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | USB Type‑A cable, Quick start guide, Warranty card | USB‑A to micro‑B power cable (30 cm), USB‑A to USB‑C cable, Built‑in cable storage compartment (integrated) |
Power & Energy(1) | ||
Power Source | Bus-powered | USB‑powered |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Interface Type | USB 2.0 | USB 3.0 |
USB Ports (ports) | 1 ports | 4 ports |
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 note the Unitek T037A stands out for its 5-in-1 design, dual USB-A/USB-C connectivity and true plug-and-play experience, earning it the Amazon's Choice label.
Everyday users praise the drive's effortless setup, compact form factor, and the extra USB ports and SD slot that alleviate port scarcity on modern laptops.
“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.”
