Verbatim Slimline
Score: 79/100
Laurensory External DVD Drive
Score: 69/100Rankings
The Verbatim Slimline CD/DVD Drive is an ultra-portable external optical drive offering M-Disc support and fast 24× CD/8× DVD write speeds. Its cheap plastic housing and noisy operation, plus the need for two USB ports for power, limit its premium feel. Ideal for laptop users needing occasional disc access and archival capability.
The Laurensory External DVD Drive offers fast USB 3.0 connectivity and dual USB-A/C ports, delivering solid CD/DVD speeds. Its larger size and limited compatibility with newer devices are notable trade-offs. Ideal for users who need a portable optical drive for laptops or desktops without built-in burners.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 xbest | 24 xbest | |
8 xbest | 8 xbest | |
— | 24 xbest | |
— | 8 xbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 218 gbest | 385.6 g |
| ↓ lower better | 16 mmbest | 27.9 mm |
2 yearsbest | 1 years |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Interface | USB 2.0 | USB 3.0 |
USB Standard | USB 2.0 | USB 3.0 |
Features(1) | ||
Supported Media | CD/DVD/M-Disc | CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD-R DL, VCD-ROM |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 218 g | 385.6 g |
Thickness (mm) | 16 mm | 27.9 mm |
General(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 2 years | 1 years |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, Mac | Windows 98/SE/ME/2000/2003/XP/Vista/7/8/10; Mac OS 8.6-10.14; Linux (limited) |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Verbatim Slimline CD/DVD Writer for its ultra-portable form factor, true plug-and-play operation, and support for M-Disc archival media, describing it as a reliable, budget-friendly solution for occasional optical disc tasks. The main criticisms focus on audible noise, a cheap-looking plastic chassis, occasional mechanical quirks, and the absence of integrated DVD playback software.
Everyday users overwhelmingly value the drive's simplicity, portability, and driver-free setup, often highlighting its usefulness for backing up legacy media and occasional disc burning. Recurring complaints center on noise, a flimsy feel, occasional tray or cable issues, and the need for extra software to play DVD movies.
“Works great, simple to use, no drivers required, good solid construction, slim for portability”
“Great for MacBooks, no drops or errors”
