Verbatim Slimline
Score: 79/100
Rioddas 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 Rioddas external CD/DVD drive provides USB-3.0 connectivity, 24× CD and 8× DVD speeds, and a compact lightweight design with an embedded cable and Type-C adapter. It omits M-DISC support, offers no warranty, and the cable can be tight, which may affect reliability. It targets budget-conscious laptop owners and Linux enthusiasts needing basic optical functionality.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 xbest | 24 xbest | |
8 xbest | 8 xbest | |
— | 24 xbest | |
— | 8 xbest | |
— | 2 MBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 218 g | 199 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 16 mmbest | 25.4 mm |
2 yearsbest | — |
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(2) | ||
Supported Media | CD/DVD/M-Disc | CD-ROM, CD-R/RW, CD+R/RW, DVD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, dual-layer DVD±R DL |
M‑DISC Support | true | false |
Power(1) | ||
Power Source | USB 2.0 | USB-powered |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 218 g | 199 g |
Thickness (mm) | 16 mm | 25.4 mm |
Form Factor | Slimline | Portable |
General(1) | ||
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, Mac | Windows, Linux, macOS |
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”
“It works good!”
No professional reviews from major tech sites were found. A single non‑professional YouTube reviewer confirmed the device is detected as a USB 3.0 drive on Ubuntu, operates the tray correctly, and successfully burns and plays DVDs, recommending it for its price and basic functionality.
Everyday users praise the drive's easy Linux compatibility, straightforward plug-and-play setup, and reliable basic DVD playback and burning. The most common complaint is a tight USB cable fit, and a few users note the lack of Blu-ray support as a limitation.
