
LG External DVD Drive
Score: 74/100
Dell DW316
Score: 73/100Rankings

LG's GP65NW60 is an ultra-slim 14 mm USB-2.0 external DVD writer that delivers 24× CD and 8× DVD write speeds plus M-DISC support for long-term storage. The native USB-2.0 interface caps data throughput and the drive lacks Blu-ray capability. Best suited for users prioritizing portability and archival features over raw transfer speed.

The Dell DW316 is a lightweight, tray-loading external DVD drive with USB 2.0 plug-and-play and M-DISC archival support. It offers solid build quality and a high MTBF, but its USB 2.0 interface and modest buffer limit burn speeds. Suited for Dell laptop owners who need reliable CD/DVD access with M-DISC capability.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
24 xbest | 24 xbest | |
8 xbest | 8 xbest | |
24 xbest | 24 xbest | |
8 xbest | 8 xbest | |
0.75 MBbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 8 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | 194 gbest | 200 g |
| ↓ lower better | 14 mmbest | 14 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Buffer Size (MB) | 0.75 MB | 0.75-2 MB |
Features(1) | ||
Supported Media | DVD±R, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-RAM, DVD±R DL, M-DISC, CD-R, CD-RW | CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM (SL/DL), DVD±R, DVD±RW, DVD±R DL, DVD-RAM, M-DISC (DVD+R SL), CD Extra, CD-DA, CD-I, CD-ROM XA, Photo CD, Video CD, DVD-V |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 194 g | 200 g |
General(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, iOS | Windows 7/8/8.1/10 |


Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers and editors commend the LG GP65NB60 for its remarkably thin form factor, fast 8× DVD/24× CD write speeds, and the added value of M-DISC support and a comprehensive software bundle, while noting that the USB 2.0 interface can limit performance and that occasional noise may be heard under heavy load.
Everyday users appreciate the device's plug-and-play simplicity, portability, and reliable burning thanks to the built-in buffer, especially for occasional use and archival tasks; recurring complaints focus on USB 2.0 speed limits and occasional noise during prolonged operations.

Professional reviewers and Dell's own marketing material present the DW316 as a dependable, plug-and-play external drive that meets the baseline performance expectations for CD/DVD media. They commend its Dell-specific compatibility, inclusion of M-DISC support, and the bundled CyberLink software, while noting the lack of a USB 3.0 interface and the modest buffer size as drawbacks compared with competing models.
Everyday users generally praise the drive's portability, ease of setup and ability to handle legacy media on modern laptops. Positive comments focus on the slim form factor and M-DISC capability, whereas recurring criticisms revolve around slower USB 2.0 speeds and the limited buffer affecting burn times.
“Plug and Play disc burning solution for USB ports”


