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For most Mac owners, buy the ASUS ZenDrive U9M. It is portable, bus-powered, works with both USB-C and USB-A, writes DVDs at up to 8× and CDs at up to 24×, supports M-DISC DVD media, and is listed by ASUS at $39.99. It is a more convenient current choice than Apple’s SuperDrive for USB-C-only MacBooks because you do not need a separate adapter.
Choose the LG GP65NB60 if price matters most, the OWC Mercury Pro for frequent burning and a permanent desk setup, or the Verbatim 98938 if you want a lightweight M-DISC-oriented drive with a USB-C adapter included. Apple’s USB SuperDrive still works for ordinary CD/DVD tasks, but Apple no longer sells it directly, so it is best treated as a legacy or used-market option.
Quick comparison
These recommendations are for external CD/DVD drives used with a Mac in the United States. Prices and stock change, so treat the figures below as prices observed during research rather than permanent list prices. “Mac compatible” also needs careful interpretation: Apple documents external optical-drive functionality in current macOS, but most manufacturers do not explicitly certify every drive for macOS Tahoe 26.
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| Drive | Best for | Connection and power | Writing capability | Mac-support evidence | Main drawback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ZenDrive U9M | Most Mac owners | USB-C and USB-A; bus-powered | Up to 8× DVD and 24× CD; dual-layer DVD and M-DISC DVD | ASUS lists Mac OS X 10.6 and later; Apple documents external optical drives in macOS 26 | USB 2.0 and no model-specific Tahoe 26 certification found |
| LG GP65NB60 | Lowest-cost reputable option | USB-A; bus-powered | Up to 8× DVD and 24× CD; DVD±R DL, DVD-RAM and M-DISC | LG and retailers list Mac compatibility | USB-C Mac users need an adapter or dock; cable bundle varies by seller |
| Apple USB SuperDrive | Existing owners or Apple-focused buyers | Fixed USB-A cable; bus-powered | CD/DVD reading and writing, including common dual-layer DVD media | Apple documents its use with compatible Macs | No longer sold directly by Apple; USB-C adapter required on current MacBooks |
| OWC Mercury Pro | Frequent burning and desktop use | USB 3; external power supply | Configuration-dependent: 24× DVD burner, 16× Blu-ray burner, or enclosure without a mechanism | OWC sells Mac-oriented configurations; verify the selected mechanism | Large, less portable and more expensive |
| Verbatim 98938 | Lightweight M-DISC setup | USB-powered; USB-A-to-USB-C adapter included | Up to 8× DVD and 24× CD; M-DISC DVD | Verbatim lists Mac support, but not explicit Tahoe 26 certification | Bundled Nero software is Windows-only |
The rankings are editorial recommendations based on connectivity, current availability, published format support, power design, portability and price—not independent laboratory reliability or speed tests.
Best overall: ASUS ZenDrive U9M
The ASUS ZenDrive U9M SDRW-08U9M-U is the easiest recommendation for a current Mac because it addresses the most common compatibility problem: the missing USB-A port on modern MacBooks. ASUS supplies USB-C and USB-A connectivity, so the same drive can connect directly to a current MacBook or to an older Mac with USB-A.
It is bus-powered, so there is no separate AC adapter to carry. ASUS lists maximum speeds of up to 8× for standard DVD±R writing and 24× for CD writing. The actual result depends on the disc, media quality, optical mechanism and whether the drive slows down to handle errors. The interface label alone does not make a drive faster.
#1 Best Overall
- 【PLUG & PLAY – EASY CONNECTION】 Simply connect the Amicool External DVD Drive to your computer’s USB or Type-C port, and it will usually be detected right away without the need for extra drivers. For stable operation and sufficient power, we recommend connecting it directly to a USB port on your computer (for desktops, use a rear motherboard port) and avoiding USB hubs or extension cables. This user-friendly design ensures quick setup for both beginners and professionals.
- 【FAST & STABLE DATA TRANSMISSION】 Featuring dual interfaces (USB 3.0 and Type-C), this optical drive supports data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps. To ensure a reliable connection, please connect it directly to your computer. The drive supports multiple disc formats such as DVD+R, DVD-R, CD-R, and CD-RW. Please note: It does NOT support DVD-RAM, Blu-ray (BD) discs, or certain proprietary formats. Maximum DVD read speed is 8x, and maximum CD read/write speed is 24x.
- 【UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY】 Compatible with Windows 11 / 10 / 8.1 / 7, Linux, and all macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon) for MacBook Air/Pro, iMac, Mac mini; NOT for iPad/iPhone/Apple TV/ChromeOS; for Mac, insert disc FIRST, connect directly to USB port (use a POWERED USB‑C hub for M1/M2/M3 to avoid insufficient power), and open media with VLC Player (Apple DVD Player not supported). Works with most computers from brands like Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, Acer, and Samsung. 👉 Important: Designed specifically for computers. It is NOT compatible with TVs, tablets, game consoles (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox), car stereos, or standalone Blu-ray players.
- 【SLIM & PORTABLE DESIGN – BUILT-IN CABLE, READY TO GO】With an integrated cable design, slim body, and stylish matte finish, this lightweight CD/DVD drive is both durable and portable. Easily slip it into your laptop bag or backpack and use it anytime, anywhere—perfect for business, travel, or home use
- 【MULTIFUNCTIONAL & RELIABLE OPERATION】 Equipped with intelligent error correction and anti-shock technology, this drive supports reading, writing, and burning discs. If the drive is not recognized or a disc cannot be read, try restarting your computer or testing with a different, standard CD-R or DVD-R disc. The pop-up button and built-in cable design offer convenience and portability. For desktop PCs, connecting to a rear USB port is recommended for optimal power and performance.
The U9M supports common CD and DVD read/write formats, dual-layer DVD media and M-DISC DVD. ASUS lists up to 6× for some dual-layer DVD writing and up to 4× for DVD+R M-DISC writing, so “8× DVD” should not be read as a speed guarantee for every type of blank disc.
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Why it is the default pick
- It avoids buying a separate USB-C adapter for a USB-C-only MacBook.
- It works with both newer and older Macs.
- It reads and writes ordinary CDs and DVDs and supports dual-layer DVD media.
- It is compact and needs no separate power brick.
- It supports M-DISC DVD for readers who want that medium.
The main compromise is the slim, portable USB 2.0 design. It is appropriate for occasional imports, DVD playback, software installation and small burns, but a full-size powered drive is a better physical fit for a large disc library or continuous desktop use.
Best budget choice: LG GP65NB60
The LG GP65NB60 is the best low-cost choice when you already have a USB-A adapter, dock or Mac with a USB-A port. Best Buy listed it at $28.99 during research. It supports standard CD formats, DVD±R/RW, dual-layer DVD±R, DVD-RAM, DVD-ROM and DVD-Video; the retailer also lists M-DISC support.
LG publishes maximum write speeds of up to 8× for DVD and 24× for CD. Like the ASUS, it is a USB 2.0 slim drive. That is not automatically a problem for optical media: an ordinary DVD writer’s mechanical and media limits are generally more important than the headline USB generation.
The important catch is connectivity. The GP65NB60 uses USB-A, and the exact cable or adapter included can vary by seller. A current MacBook Air or MacBook Pro generally has USB-C/Thunderbolt ports rather than USB-A, so budget for a reliable USB-A-to-USB-C adapter if you do not already own one.
Buy this model when you want a branded, inexpensive CD/DVD writer and do not mind the adapter. If the price difference between this drive and the USB-C/USB-A ASUS is small, the ASUS is the more convenient purchase for most MacBook owners.
Best Apple-branded option: Apple USB SuperDrive
The Apple USB SuperDrive remains a simple way to read and write CDs and DVDs, and Apple’s support documentation explains how to use it with Macs introduced in 2008 or later that do not have an internal optical drive. Its slot-loading design is compact and familiar to longtime Mac users.
However, it should not be presented as the default new-product recommendation in 2026. Apple’s former SuperDrive product page now redirects to its general storage category and says the product is no longer available on Apple.com. Remaining new-old stock, refurbished units and used drives may still be available through other sellers, but prices can be inflated because of the Apple logo and discontinued status.
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It makes sense to buy a used or remaining SuperDrive when it is cheaper than a current USB-C-capable alternative, the seller accepts returns, and the drive has been tested with both a CD and a DVD. Ask whether the drive successfully reads a commercial disc and burns a blank one. Do not pay more for it than a current drive with equivalent capabilities simply because it is Apple-branded.
Best for a desk and frequent burning: OWC Mercury Pro
The OWC Mercury Pro is the better fit when the drive will stay on a desk, handle repeated burns, or serve a larger archive. It uses a full-size enclosure, USB 3 and an external power supply rather than relying on a slim laptop mechanism drawing power from one USB port.
OWC sells the Mercury Pro in multiple configurations. Depending on the option selected, it can contain a 24× DVD burner, a 16× Blu-ray burner, or no optical mechanism so the buyer can choose one. The optical format support, maximum speeds and M-DISC capability therefore depend on the exact configuration. Do not treat “Mercury Pro” as one fixed drive with one universal specification.
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Rank #2
- Plug & Play. Easy to use, powered by USB port. No external driver or power adapter needed. Simply plug it into your USB port for automatic detection. For optimal performance on desktop computers, connect directly to a high-power USB port on the back of the motherboard. This hassle-free solution requires no technical setup, and if the drive isn't immediately recognized, trying a different USB port typically resolves most connection issues
- High Speed & Reliable Performance. Compatible with USB 3.0 (backwards compatible with USB 2.0), this drive delivers fast data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps. Engineered with strong fault tolerance, it minimizes freezing, skipping, and errors during disc playback or burning. The stable performance ensures smooth, reliable operation and reduces the risk of defective performance
- Intelligent Tech & Stable Connection. Features a physical eject button that safely releases discs even when your computer fails to recognize the drive—eliminating the common frustration of stuck media. Enhanced with copper mesh technology, this external component ensures consistently stable data transmission during all your reading and writing tasks
- Trendy & Practical Design. Features a brushed texture shell for modern visual and tactile appeal. The innovative embedded cable design keeps your USB cable securely stored and always accessible, eliminating worries about misplacement. This compact, all-in-one solution is perfectly suited for easy transport and organized storage
- Wide Compatibility. This external USB CD/DVD drive works with Windows 11/10/8.1/7/Vista/XP, Linux, and macOS 10.16+ (MacBook Pro/Air, iMac, Mac mini). Compatible with most laptops/desktops (HP, Dell, Lenovo, ASUS, Samsung). For optimal performance on desktops, connect to rear USB ports. Supported formats include CD-ROM/R/RW, DVD-ROM/R±RW/R±DL, and VCD. IMPORTANT: Not compatible with ChromeOS, smartphones, tablets, TVs, projectors, vehicles, or Blu-ray/4K discs. Please verify your device type before purchasing
The external power supply is useful for a permanent setup and can avoid the power instability that sometimes affects bus-powered slim drives connected through hubs. The trade-off is size, price and portability. This is a fit-based recommendation for a desktop workflow, not a claim that OWC has been independently proven more reliable than every slim drive.
If you choose the Blu-ray configuration, remember that the hardware is only one part of commercial movie playback. Blu-ray playback software and copy-protection support must be checked separately.
Best lightweight M-DISC-oriented alternative: Verbatim 98938
The Verbatim External Slimline CD/DVD Writer, model 98938, is a useful alternative to the ASUS. It weighs 12 ounces, is USB-powered, supports up to 8× DVD and 24× CD writing, and includes a USB-A-to-USB-C adapter. That makes it more convenient for a USB-C Mac than a USB-A-only budget drive.
Verbatim lists M-DISC support and a two-year limited warranty. It is a reasonable choice for a reader who specifically wants a portable drive for M-DISC DVD projects, provided the current US price and stock are competitive with the ASUS.
Do not buy it because of the bundled Nero software if you use a Mac. Verbatim states that the included Nero software is Windows-only. macOS Finder and Music can handle ordinary data-disc burning, audio-CD burning and CD importing without that package.
Choose the drive by the disc work you need to do
| Your task | What you need | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Read files from CDs or DVDs | Any reputable external CD/DVD drive | Connector, power and return policy |
| Burn files | CD/DVD writer | CD-R/RW and DVD±R/RW support |
| Burn larger DVD projects | DVD writer with dual-layer support | DVD±R DL support and compatible blank media |
| Import music CDs | CD-capable drive plus Music or ripping software | Disc condition and error-correction or verification options |
| Watch DVD movies | DVD reader plus DVD playback software | Region code, disc format and copy protection |
| Burn standard audio CDs | CD writer plus Music or another authoring app | Choose Audio CD, not merely Data CD |
| Archive to M-DISC | Writer and compatible M-DISC media | Verify the burn and keep additional backups |
| Read or burn Blu-ray | Blu-ray-capable drive | Do not buy a DVD-only model; separately check software |
USB-C, USB-A, hubs and power
Current MacBook Air models list two Thunderbolt 4/USB-C ports and no USB-A port. Current MacBook Pro models use USB-C/Thunderbolt ports, with some newer configurations using Thunderbolt 5. An iMac, Mac mini or Mac Studio may offer a different mix of ports depending on its model and year, so check the exact Mac rather than assuming all Macs have the same connectors. Apple’s MacBook Air specifications and MacBook Pro specifications show the current laptop port layouts.
Before ordering, check what is actually in the box:
- A native USB-C cable or USB-C connector.
- A USB-A cable.
- A USB-A-to-USB-C adapter.
- A Y-cable that requires two USB ports for additional power.
- An AC power supply.
A drive with a USB-C adapter included is not exactly the same as a drive designed around a native USB-C cable. Both can be useful, but the distinction matters when comparing portability and cable reliability.
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Connect a slim drive directly to the Mac first. A monitor hub, unpowered hub or dock may not provide stable power for every optical drive. Apple specifically warns that the SuperDrive may fail to respond through an external display or hub and recommends a direct connection. If a bus-powered drive repeatedly spins up and disconnects, try another cable and port, a powered hub, or a desktop drive with its own power supply.
Do not overpay for USB 3 on a DVD drive
Many portable DVD writers advertise speeds around 8× for DVD and 24× for CD. ASUS, LG and Verbatim publish figures in that range. USB 3 can matter more for a Blu-ray writer, a full-size desktop unit or repeated large transfers, but it does not automatically make a slim 8× DVD mechanism faster.
Optical speed is affected by the drive mechanism, the media’s rated speed, disc quality, scratches, error correction and the software’s burn strategy. A USB 2.0 drive can be entirely adequate for ordinary CD/DVD work. Conversely, a USB 3 label does not establish better mechanics, firmware or reliability.
Tray-loading versus slot-loading
Slot-loading drives, such as Apple’s SuperDrive, have a clean, Apple-like appearance and take less space on a desk. They can be less convenient with unusual discs, labels, adapters or damaged media.
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Neither loading style should be called universally more reliable without independent comparative testing. Choose based on the discs you use and whether portability or a stable desk setup matters more.
Rank #3
- 【Plug & Play】This ORIGBELIE external CD DVD drive is powered by USB port, no additional drivers and power supply required! Just plug the USB type-A or type-C connector on the data cable to your computer and the CD burner will be detected by computer automatically, you can then use the corresponding software to read and write the discs with no complex settings. As for Mac system, please note that the computer will not display the device icon until the disc is placed and read successfully.
- 【High-Speed】The external DVD drive supports USB 3.0 high speed data transmission and is backward compatible with USB 2.0 / 1.1. It delivers max 8x DVD read/write speeds and max 24x CD read/write speeds, provides faster data transfer rates of up to 5 Gbps (625MB/S) without lag or distortion, get more done in less time! It also boasts strong error correction capability, noise reduction, shock resistance and low power consumption.
- 【Wide Compatibility】- This external cd drive supports various devices. It's compatible with Windows 11/ 10 / 8 / 7 / XP / 98 / SE / ME / 2000, Vista 7 / 8, Linux, Mac OS 10.6 or above such as Apple MacBook Air, iMac, Mac Mini and MacBook Pro. For desktops, please connect the DVD burner to the back USB port of the motherboard to avoid power shortage. (Not support for Cars, TV, Tablet, Phones, iPads, PS4/5, Xbox, Switch, Projectors, Chromebook, Surface (some models), Ubuntu system and blu ray disk)
- 【All Kinds of Disc】This CD player for laptop support read and write various formats discs, e.g. CD±R/RW, CD-ROM, DVD±R/RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, VCD e SVCD. The CD drive also can be used to listen to music, watch movies, data backup, burn files, install software, operating systems or games. If the CDs or DVDs can't be read by computer, use the charging cable included in the packge to connect to 5V charger or power bank to get extra power, that's because some computer doesn't have enough power to support the operation of the USB DVD drive external.
- 【Ultra Slim and Portable】Measuring just 13mm in thickness and weighing only 0.2 kg, the ORIGBELIE external optical drive is extremely slim and portable, taking up minimal space in travelling bag while on-the-go. Integrated data cable design, no need to worry about cable missing. What's more, its durable construction and anti-skid bottom ensure stable operation.
CD, DVD and M-DISC format support
“CD/DVD drive” is not one complete specification. Confirm the formats you actually need:
- CD-ROM, CD-R and CD-RW for reading commercial CDs, burning recordable CDs and rewriting CD-RW media.
- DVD-ROM for reading commercial or pressed DVDs.
- DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW for common recordable and rewritable DVD media.
- DVD±R DL for dual-layer DVDs, which hold more data than single-layer discs.
- DVD-RAM if you have legacy media that uses that format.
- M-DISC DVD if you plan to write to that archival-oriented medium.
The LG GP65NB60 has one of the broadest published format lists among these picks, including dual-layer DVD, DVD-RAM, DVD-Video and M-DISC. ASUS lists broad CD/DVD support, dual-layer DVD and M-DISC DVD, but write speeds vary by medium.
What M-DISC does—and does not—do
ASUS, LG, Verbatim and OWC market M-DISC support, although OWC support depends on the selected Mercury Pro mechanism. M-DISC is an archival-oriented recording medium, and manufacturers or the format’s marketing may describe extremely long projected lifetimes under stated conditions.
That claim applies to the medium and recording conditions—not automatically to every disc you burn. M-DISC cannot protect data from fire, theft, flood, accidental deletion, a failed optical drive or an archive that was never verified. For important data, burn the disc, verify that it can be read, keep at least one additional copy, and store copies in separate locations.
Blu-ray is a separate buying category
A standard DVD drive cannot read Blu-ray. Apple’s DVD Player also does not play Blu-ray discs. If Blu-ray matters, skip the standard DVD ranking and buy a Blu-ray-capable model.
One example is Verbatim’s external all-in-one optical writer, which supports CD, DVD, Blu-ray and BDXL over USB 3.2 Gen 1. Verbatim says movie playback software is not included. OWC offers a 16× Blu-ray Mercury Pro configuration.
Reading or burning Blu-ray data is mainly a hardware and media question. Playing commercial Blu-ray movies is also a software and copy-protection question. Pioneer’s BDR-XD08B page lists compatibility through macOS Sequoia 15, but does not list macOS Tahoe 26; do not treat that page as proof of Tahoe compatibility.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to use an external optical drive on macOS Tahoe 26
Apple documents Macs using external optical drives to play and burn CDs and DVDs. Its current DVD Player documentation includes a macOS Tahoe 26 guide version. That confirms Apple’s operating-system functionality, but it does not mean every manufacturer has published a model-specific Tahoe certification.
1. Connect and verify the drive
- Connect the drive directly to the Mac, preferably without a monitor hub or unpowered hub for the first test.
- Insert a known-good commercial CD or DVD.
- If macOS does not show the disc, open Apple menu > System Settings > General > About > System Report.
- Select Disc Burning in the hardware section to see whether macOS detects the drive and which burning capabilities it reports.
On older macOS releases, System Report may be reached through Apple menu > About This Mac > System Report.
2. Burn a data CD or DVD in Finder
- Insert a blank disc.
- When macOS asks what to do, choose Open Finder.
- Open the mounted blank disc in Finder.
- Drag files and folders into the disc window.
- Choose File > Burn to Disc and follow the prompts.
Finder can create discs readable on Windows and other computers. To burn a disk image, Control-click the .dmg file and choose Burn to Disc. To erase a rewritable disc, Control-click the optical drive in Finder and choose Erase Rewritable Disc.
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- Open Music.
- Choose Music > Settings > General.
- Set When a CD is inserted to Show CD, Play CD, Import CD, Import CD and Eject or Ask to Import CD.
- Insert the audio CD. If it does not appear automatically, select it under Devices.
- Click Import CD.
- Use Music > Settings > Files > Import Settings to choose the encoding format.
- Enable Use error correction when reading Audio CDs if the disc is scratched or the resulting file contains clicks or pops.
Music normally imports CDs as AAC unless you change the import setting. When the Mac is connected to the internet, Music can retrieve track names; otherwise an unidentified disc may appear as “Track 01,” “Track 02” and so on.
4. Burn a standard audio CD
- Create a playlist in Music.
- Insert a blank disc.
- Select the playlist.
- Choose File > Burn Playlist to Disc.
- Select Audio CD, MP3 CD or Data CD or DVD.
- For an audio CD, choose the recording speed, gap between songs, Sound Check and CD Text options where available.
- Click Burn.
A standard audio CD is not the same as a data disc containing music files. Choose Audio CD when the disc needs to play in a traditional CD player. Apple notes that protected or unauthorized songs may prevent the Burn Playlist to Disc command from appearing.
5. Play a DVD movie
Insert a DVD and open Apple’s DVD Player. Apple supports DVD playback through an external DVD drive, but there are important limits:
- DVD Player does not play Blu-ray.
- Some video content burned to DVD-RW may not be recognized.
- Region-coded DVDs must match the drive’s region.
- Apple says the drive region can be changed only five times, including the original setting. After the fifth change, it is permanently set to the last selected region.
- A copy-protected DVD folder copied to the Mac cannot simply be opened in DVD Player as an ordinary file folder.
VLC for macOS is another option for ordinary DVD and audio-CD playback and provides separate Intel and Apple-silicon downloads. Encrypted or region-restricted DVD behavior depends on the drive, firmware and software environment; installing VLC should not be treated as a guarantee that every protected disc will play.
Rank #4
- 13mm for ultra slim and light
- Mac/PC Support
- Includes USB 2. 0 and Type-C cables
- Nero BackItUp function for Android Devices
- DISC Encryption II for password-controls and hidden-file functionality
CD ripping: ordinary imports versus secure archival copies
For normal listening, Music is sufficient. For a lossless archive, FLAC files, AccurateRip verification or detailed extraction logs, consider a dedicated CD-ripping application such as X Lossless Decoder. XLD describes itself as a macOS lossless decoder and CD ripper with AccurateRip support and multiple output formats. Check its current release and macOS requirements at publication because those can change independently of the optical drive.
A drive does not automatically produce better rips because it advertises a higher CD speed. Secure-ripping results depend on the disc’s condition, the drive’s read behavior, the correct offset and error handling, the software’s verification process and the particular pressing or mastering of the CD.
Troubleshooting an external Mac optical drive
The Mac does not recognize the drive
- Disconnect it from a monitor hub or unpowered hub and connect it directly to the Mac.
- Try another USB port.
- Try another cable or USB-C adapter.
- Insert a known-good commercial CD or DVD rather than testing only with a blank disc.
- Check Apple menu > System Settings > General > About > System Report > Disc Burning.
- If the drive spins up and disconnects, try a powered hub or a desktop drive with its own AC supply.
- Restart the Mac and test again.
Burning fails
- Try higher-quality blank media and confirm that the disc type matches the drive.
- Check that the drive supports dual-layer writing if you are using DVD±R DL.
- Make sure the USB connection remains stable throughout the burn.
- Close any application that has the disc open.
- Keep enough free space on the Mac. Apple says burning can temporarily require approximately 700 MB for a CD, 4 GB for a single-layer DVD and 8 GB for a dual-layer DVD.
A DVD ejects immediately
Check for a region mismatch, a drive that has already used its five region changes, a damaged or scratched disc, an unsupported DVD-RW video structure or copy-protected content being opened as an ordinary folder. Try a different commercial DVD to distinguish a drive problem from a problem with the original disc.
The disc will not eject
- Quit the app currently using the disc.
- Select the disc in Finder and choose File > Eject.
- Click the eject button next to the disc in Finder’s sidebar.
- Restart the Mac if necessary.
- For an emergency eject, Apple documents holding the mouse or trackpad button while restarting in some situations.
When not to buy a new drive
You already have an Apple SuperDrive
Keep it if it works and you have the necessary USB-A adapter. There is no need to replace a functioning drive merely because newer models exist.
You can use another computer
If a friend’s or family member’s computer already has an optical drive, copying the files to a USB drive or network location may be cheaper than buying hardware for a one-time task. Older Apple documentation described CD/DVD sharing between Macs, but that is not the primary 2026 recommendation without verifying support on both computers.
You need a large disc library or frequent ripping
A full-size internal SATA optical drive in a suitable USB enclosure can be appropriate for a large library, repeated ripping and frequent burning. It is less portable and requires more care when choosing the mechanism, enclosure, power supply and macOS compatibility. The OWC Mercury Pro is the clearest mainstream desktop-style option in this guide.
You are tempted by a generic drive labeled USB 3.0
A generic drive may work, but “USB 3.0” alone does not establish Mac compatibility, stable power behavior, correct dual-layer support, good firmware, reliable performance with scratched discs or a useful return policy. Established brands are easier to verify, although many budget products use similar slim optical mechanisms.
Why this ranking differs from older buying guides
Older recommendation lists often place Apple’s SuperDrive first without noting that Apple no longer sells it directly. For example, iMore’s article is titled for 2026 but says it was last updated July 9, 2024. Its discussion of adapters is useful, but it does not resolve the SuperDrive’s current Apple availability or provide a current macOS 26 model-certification check.
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The practical buying errors to avoid are more important than a long list of nearly identical drives: do not confuse USB 3 with a faster optical mechanism, do not count Windows-only bundled software as Mac functionality, do not mix Blu-ray and DVD-only products, and do not treat retailer ratings as controlled reliability tests.
Final buying decision
- Buy the ASUS ZenDrive U9M for the best balance of USB-C convenience, USB-A flexibility, portability, published support and price.
- Buy the LG GP65NB60 if you want the cheapest reputable CD/DVD writer and already have a USB-A adapter or dock.
- Buy or keep the Apple USB SuperDrive only when you specifically want Apple’s slot-loading accessory or find a tested unit at a sensible price.
- Buy the OWC Mercury Pro for a powered desk setup, frequent burning or a selected Blu-ray configuration.
- Buy the Verbatim 98938 if its included USB-C adapter, two-year warranty and M-DISC support make it a better deal than the ASUS.
- Buy a Blu-ray drive instead if your discs are Blu-ray; no standard DVD drive can substitute for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will any external DVD drive work with a USB-C MacBook?
Most established external CD/DVD drives can handle ordinary Finder and Music tasks once physically connected, but the connector and power arrangement still matter. A USB-A-only drive requires an adapter or dock. A native USB-C model, such as the ASUS ZenDrive U9M, is simpler. If a slim drive disconnects, connect it directly or use a powered hub.
Can a CD/DVD drive play Blu-ray movies?
No. A standard DVD drive cannot read Blu-ray, and Apple’s DVD Player does not play Blu-ray discs. Buy Blu-ray-capable hardware and separately verify playback software and copy-protection support.
Is Apple’s USB SuperDrive still worth buying?
It can be worthwhile if you already own one or find a tested used or remaining-stock unit at a low price. Apple no longer sells it directly, it uses USB-A, and current USB-C MacBooks need an adapter. It is not the best default new-product recommendation in 2026.
Do I need special software to burn CDs and DVDs on a Mac?
Not for ordinary tasks. Finder can burn data CDs and DVDs, while Music can import audio CDs and burn audio CDs, MP3 CDs and data discs. Third-party software becomes more relevant for secure verified ripping, unusual authoring tasks, encrypted movie playback or Blu-ray movies.
The Bottom Line
The ASUS ZenDrive U9M is the best all-purpose external CD/DVD drive for most Mac owners in 2026. Its USB-C and USB-A flexibility avoids the most common adapter problem while retaining portability and standard CD/DVD writing. Pick the LG GP65NB60 for the lowest cost, the OWC Mercury Pro for powered desktop use, and the Verbatim 98938 for a lightweight M-DISC-oriented setup. Apple’s SuperDrive remains usable, but its discontinued direct-sale status makes it a legacy option rather than the automatic best buy.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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