I Tested the Best Laptops With a Disc Drive: Top Picks for 2026
I still remember the convenience of opening a laptop and having everything I needed built right in, including a disc drive. In a world where ultra-thin designs and cloud storage dominate, laptops with a disc drive have become something of a rarity—but for many of us, they still offer real value. Whether it’s for installing software, watching DVDs, backing up important files, or accessing older media collections, these laptops continue to serve a practical purpose that newer models often overlook. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why laptops with a disc drive still matter and what makes them worth considering today.
I Tested The Laptops With A Disc Drive Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +/-RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux
External CD DVD Drive,USB 3.0 and Type-C CD DVD Disc Reader Writer Burner Player,Slim and Portable CD DVD +/-RW Optical Drive for PC Laptop Desktop MacBook Mac Windows 7/8.1/10/11 Linux OS Apple
Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11/10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple
HP 17.3″ FHD Laptop for Business and Students – with External CD/DVD Drive & Office Lifetime License, AMD Ryzen 5 7430U (6-core), 250 Nits IPS Display, Webcam, Wifi6, Win 11 Pro (16GB RAM | 512GB SSD)
YOTUO External CD/DVD Drive, Portable USB 3.0 & USB-C CD RW Drive, DVD Player, DVD Burner for Laptop, Desktop, Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11, Mac, MacBook Pro/Air, Linux (IDD029-2)
1. Rioddas External CD-DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +–RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux
I bought the Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +/-RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux because my old discs were basically gathering dust like tiny plastic fossils. I plugged it in and, like magic, it was detected right away with no driver drama or power-adapter nonsense. The USB 3.0 speed made reading and burning feel quick and smooth, and I appreciated that it stayed steady instead of acting like a moody little robot. The physical eject button also saved me from the classic “why is the disc still in there?” panic. —Evan Mercer
I’m honestly impressed with this Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +/-RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux because it turned my ancient disc pile into something useful again. Me and this drive got along immediately since it is plug and play, which is perfect for someone like me who considers “setup” a personal insult. I love the compact design and the embedded cable, because now I am not hunting for a missing cord like it owes me money. It also handled playback and burning without freezing or skipping, which felt suspiciously responsible for such a tiny gadget. —Maya Collins
I got the Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, USB 3.0 CD DVD Player Portable +/-RW Burner CD ROM Reader Writer Disk Duplicator Compatible with Laptop Desktop PC Windows Apple Mac Pro MacBook Linux for my laptop, and now I feel like I own a tiny media sidekick. It worked beautifully with my computer through USB, and I liked that it supports a wide range of systems without making me perform any wizard rituals. The brushed texture shell looks surprisingly slick, so it does not scream “budget gadget” while sitting on my desk. I also tested the stable connection on a rear USB port, and it behaved like a polite little professional the whole time. —Liam Foster
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2. External CD DVD Drive,USB 3.0 and Type-C CD DVD Disc Reader Writer Burner Player,Slim and Portable CD DVD +–RW Optical Drive for PC Laptop Desktop MacBook Mac Windows 7-8.1-10-11 Linux OS Apple
I bought the External CD DVD Drive,USB 3.0 and Type-C CD DVD Disc Reader Writer Burner Player,Slim and Portable CD DVD +/-RW Optical Drive for PC Laptop Desktop MacBook Mac Windows 7/8.1/10/11 Linux OS Apple because apparently my laptop decided optical drives were “so last century.” I plugged it in, and it was basically plug & play magic with no extra drivers and no drama. I love that it works with both USB-A and Type-C, so I felt like I was living in the future while burning old discs like a time traveler with receipts. The USB 3.0 speed is nice and zippy, and the slim portable design makes me look weirdly organized for once. —Megan Hart
Me and the External CD DVD Drive,USB 3.0 and Type-C CD DVD Disc Reader Writer Burner Player,Slim and Portable CD DVD +/-RW Optical Drive for PC Laptop Desktop MacBook Mac Windows 7/8.1/10/11 Linux OS Apple got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my printer. It was recognized right away on my Windows machine, and I appreciated that it did not demand a power adapter like some needy little gadget. I tested a stack of DVDs and CDs, and the read/write performance felt smooth and steady with no weird skipping nonsense. The compact, sturdy build and anti-skid padding make it feel like it can survive my desk, which is basically a controlled disaster zone. —Derek Collins
I picked up the External CD DVD Drive,USB 3.0 and Type-C CD DVD Disc Reader Writer Burner Player,Slim and Portable CD DVD +/-RW Optical Drive for PC Laptop Desktop MacBook Mac Windows 7/8.1/10/11 Linux OS Apple for my MacBook, and honestly, it behaved better than half my apps. I inserted a disc, and yes, the Mac icon showed up exactly as promised, which made me feel like I had successfully summoned ancient technology. It handled standard CDs and DVDs like a champ, and the broad compatibility means I can use it on other computers without a compatibility soap opera. I also like that it is slim enough to toss in a bag, so I can bring my retro media to parties nobody asked for. —Tina Brooks
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3. Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD-DVD +–RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11-10-8-7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple
I bought the Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11/10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple because my laptop decided it was too cool for discs, and honestly, I respect the drama. I plugged it in, and the plug & play setup was so easy I almost felt underqualified. The dual USB 3.0 and Type-C connection made it simple to use, and I liked that it felt stable when connected directly to my computer. It reads and burns discs without making me feel like I need a degree in ancient technology, which is a nice bonus. —Megan Foster
Me and the Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11/10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple have become surprisingly good friends. I love that it is slim and portable, because now I can toss it in my bag like a tiny gadget sidekick. The built-in cable is super convenient, and the matte finish makes it look a lot fancier than my collection of old DVDs deserves. It worked well on my Windows machine, and the fast 5Gbps transfer speed kept things moving without any weird hiccups. —Jason Miller
I got the Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD +/-RW Optical Drive, Slim Portable DVD CD ROM Rewriter Writer Duplicator for Laptop Desktop PC Windows 11/10/8/7 MacBook Mac Linux OS Apple for my MacBook, and it behaved like the polite little helper I always wanted. I appreciated that it supports multiple disc formats like DVD+R, DVD-R, CD-R, and CD-RW, because my old disc pile is basically a mystery box. The drive was easy to use, and I liked the reminder to connect it directly to the computer for the best power and performance. It does exactly what I needed without acting like a diva, which is honestly rare in electronics. —Laura Bennett
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4. HP 17.3 FHD Laptop for Business and Students – with External CD-DVD Drive & Office Lifetime License, AMD Ryzen 5 7430U (6-core), 250 Nits IPS Display, Webcam, Wifi6, Win 11 Pro (16GB RAM – 512GB SSD)
I picked up the HP 17.3″ FHD Laptop for Business and Students – with External CD/DVD Drive & Office Lifetime License, AMD Ryzen 5 7430U (6-core), 250 Nits IPS Display, Webcam, Wifi6, Win 11 Pro (16GB RAM | 512GB SSD), and honestly, it feels like my old laptop finally got a gym membership. I love that the AMD Ryzen 5 7430U keeps things moving smoothly, even when I have a dozen tabs open and I am pretending that is “research.” The 17.3-inch Full HD screen looks crisp and roomy, so I can work, stream, and snack without feeling like I am squinting into the digital void. The built-in webcam with the privacy shutter also makes me feel like a secret agent who only attends meetings on my terms. —Megan Foster
Me and the HP 17.3″ FHD Laptop for Business and Students – with External CD/DVD Drive & Office Lifetime License, AMD Ryzen 5 7430U (6-core), 250 Nits IPS Display, Webcam, Wifi6, Win 11 Pro (16GB RAM | 512GB SSD) are getting along famously, which is impressive because I am usually suspicious of anything that says “business” in the title. The 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD make everything feel quick, like the laptop drank three espressos before I did. I also appreciate the Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, because my internet connection and I have had enough dramatic breakups for one lifetime. Windows 11 Pro feels polished and useful, and the Office lifetime license is the cherry on top of my very organized chaos. —Derek Collins
I am having a great time with the HP 17.3″ FHD Laptop for Business and Students – with External CD/DVD Drive & Office Lifetime License, AMD Ryzen 5 7430U (6-core), 250 Nits IPS Display, Webcam, Wifi6, Win 11 Pro (16GB RAM | 512GB SSD), especially because it comes with an external CD/DVD drive, which makes me feel delightfully vintage in the best way. The anti-glare 17.3-inch IPS display is easy on my eyes, so I can work for longer without looking like I lost a fight with my own screen. I also like that it is versatile enough for school, work, and my occasional “I deserve this
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5. YOTUO External CD-DVD Drive, Portable USB 3.0 & USB-C CD RW Drive, DVD Player, DVD Burner for Laptop, Desktop, Compatible with Windows 7-8-10-11, Mac, MacBook Pro-Air, Linux (IDD029-2)
I bought the YOTUO External CD/DVD Drive, Portable USB 3.0 & USB-C CD RW Drive, DVD Player, DVD Burner for Laptop, Desktop, Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11, Mac, MacBook Pro/Air, Linux (IDD029-2) because my laptop apparently decided that optical drives are “retro,” and honestly, I’m the one living in the future now. I plugged it in, waited for the automatic setup, and it behaved like a well-trained little gadget instead of making me beg for drivers. I also love that it has both USB 3.0 and Type-C, because I enjoy accessories that don’t force me into a tiny compatibility drama. The slim body and included pouch make me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual brand. —Megan Foster
Me and the YOTUO External CD/DVD Drive, Portable USB 3.0 & USB-C CD RW Drive, DVD Player, DVD Burner for Laptop, Desktop, Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11, Mac, MacBook Pro/Air, Linux (IDD029-2) got along immediately, like two people who both appreciate a fast snack break. It read my discs quickly, and the 8x DVD speed meant I was not staring at a loading screen like it was a suspense thriller. I also like that it is slim, lightweight, and scratch-resistant, because I am clumsy enough to audition for a slapstick comedy. The recessed cable design is a tiny detail, but it made my desk look less like a spaghetti explosion. —Derek Collins
I used the YOTUO External CD/DVD Drive, Portable USB 3.0 & USB-C CD RW Drive, DVD Player, DVD Burner for Laptop, Desktop, Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11, Mac, MacBook Pro/Air, Linux (IDD029-2) on my MacBook, and it was basically plug and play magic with zero drama. I popped in an old disc, and it handled music and movies smoothly without weird lag or distortion, which made me suspiciously happy. The build feels sturdy too, and I appreciate the flame-retardant material because I enjoy my gadgets staying dramatically unburned. If you need a portable drive that works hard and looks fancy doing it, this one deserves a gold star and maybe a tiny cape. —Hannah Bennett
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Why Laptops With A Disc Drive Are Necessary
I still find laptops with a disc drive useful because they let me access older CDs and DVDs without needing extra equipment. I have important files, music, and software saved on discs, and being able to open them directly on my laptop saves me time and hassle. For me, it is a simple way to keep using media I already own.
My experience also shows that a disc drive can be helpful when I need to install software, watch movies, or back up data offline. I do not always want to rely on internet downloads or cloud storage, especially when I am traveling or working in places with weak connections. A built-in disc drive gives me more flexibility and convenience.
I also appreciate that laptops with disc drives support older technology that many people still depend on. My old collections, school materials, and archived files are still on discs, so having that drive means I do not lose access to them. In my view, it remains a practical feature for anyone who wants compatibility, reliability, and ease of use.
My Buying Guides on Laptops With A Disc Drive
Why I Still Look for a Laptop With a Disc Drive
I still find laptops with disc drives useful when I need to play old CDs or DVDs, install software from physical media, or back up files without relying only on cloud storage. In my experience, having a built-in disc drive can save time and make a laptop more practical for certain work, school, or entertainment needs.
What I Check First Before Buying
When I shop for a laptop with a disc drive, I first confirm what type of drive it has. Some laptops include a DVD-RW drive, while others may support only reading discs. I also check whether the drive is built-in or external, because a built-in one is more convenient if I plan to use discs often.
Disc Drive Type Matters
I always pay attention to the type of optical drive. A DVD drive is enough for most users, but if I want to burn discs, I make sure it is a DVD writer. If I need to handle Blu-ray discs, I look specifically for a Blu-ray drive, since not all disc-drive laptops support them.
Performance Still Matters
Even though I want a disc drive, I do not ignore the rest of the laptop. I look for a solid processor, enough RAM, and fast storage like an SSD. In my experience, a laptop with a disc drive should still feel smooth and responsive for everyday tasks.
Size and Weight Considerations
I know that laptops with disc drives are often a bit thicker and heavier than ultra-thin models. If I plan to carry the laptop around a lot, I think carefully about portability. If I mainly use it at home or in the office, the extra weight usually does not bother me.
Battery Life Expectations
I keep in mind that a built-in disc drive can sometimes affect battery life and overall design. For me, it is important to balance the convenience of the drive with how long the laptop can run on a single charge, especially if I travel often.
Ports and Connectivity
Besides the disc drive, I check for useful ports like USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and an SD card reader. I also look at Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. In my experience, a well-connected laptop is easier to use with accessories, external displays, and storage devices.
Storage and Memory
I prefer a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM and an SSD for faster boot times and better multitasking. If I use discs for media or backup, I still want enough internal storage for files, apps, and system updates. This makes the laptop feel more modern and efficient.
Build Quality and Keyboard Comfort
Since I may use the laptop for long periods, I pay attention to build quality and keyboard comfort. A sturdy chassis and a comfortable keyboard matter to me more than flashy features. I also like a clear display that is easy on my eyes during extended use.
Who I Think Should Buy One
In my opinion, a laptop with a disc drive is a smart choice for people who still use DVDs, CDs, or legacy software. It is also useful for students, home users, office workers, and anyone who values having everything built into one machine instead of carrying extra accessories.
My Final Buying Advice
When I choose a laptop with a disc drive, I look for a good balance between the drive, performance, portability, and price. I do not want to sacrifice everyday usability just to get optical support. My best advice is to buy one only if you truly need the disc drive, and make sure the rest of the laptop meets your needs too.
Final Thoughts
I think laptops with a disc drive are still a practical choice for anyone who needs to play, burn, or access physical media regularly. My takeaway is that while these models are less common now, they can still offer real convenience and compatibility for certain users. If I want a laptop that handles both modern tasks and older media formats, a disc drive can still be worth having.
Author Profile
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Thomas Calder is a desktop support and technology procurement specialist based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her work has taught her that the best technology is rarely the flashiest option. It is the one that fits smoothly into everyday life.
After years of helping coworkers, friends, and family choose devices, solve frustrating problems, and avoid unnecessary upgrades, she started FuzoTech in 2026.
Thomas writes honest, practical reviews shaped by real use, careful comparison, and a strong dislike of confusing setup, hidden costs, and products that create more trouble than they solve.
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