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You do not need a DVD writer simply to read a disc. Choose the replacement according to what is on the disc and what you want to keep: a built-in optical drive or external DVD reader for access, a USB flash drive or external hard drive as the destination for copied files, a disc-image workflow when you must preserve the disc structure, or HandBrake when you want a playable digital video file.
The important distinction is that reading, copying, imaging, and converting are different jobs. A reader can access existing media but cannot create a new disc. Copying data preserves files, an image preserves a disc layout, and HandBrake transcodes video into a new file rather than passing the original video through unchanged.
Choose the alternative by the result you need
Start by identifying the desired outcome before buying hardware or installing software. The same DVD can require a different workflow depending on whether it contains documents, a software installer, photographs, or video intended for a DVD player.
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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →| Goal | Best-fit alternative | What it produces | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open files on an existing disc | Built-in optical drive or external DVD reader | Access to the original files | It reads; it does not burn a replacement disc |
| Move ordinary files to another device | Optical reader plus USB flash drive or external hard drive | Copies of the files in normal folders | The destination’s available space and file-system limits apply |
| Keep the disc’s folders and layout intact | Optical reader plus disc-imaging software | A disc image or copied disc folder | It requires enough storage and software that supports the source format |
| Create a convenient video file | Optical reader plus HandBrake | MP4, MKV, or WebM video | HandBrake transcodes video and does not bypass copy protection |
| Make another physical disc | A drive with writing capability | A new optical disc | A reader-only alternative cannot perform this task |
There is no universally best external model in the available evidence. Compatibility depends on your operating system, USB ports, disc formats, and the manufacturer’s specifications, so treat the table as a task guide rather than a product ranking.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Use a built-in optical drive if your computer already has one
A desktop or older laptop with an optical drive can perform the reading step without any external purchase. Insert the disc, wait for the operating system to mount it, and open it in the file manager. For a data disc, drag or copy the files to a local folder or another connected storage device.
For DVD video, the drive supplies the source to playback software or a converter. Whether a particular computer can play a given disc depends on its hardware, operating-system support, and installed software. The general capability of an optical drive is to play CDs and DVDs and access files on backed-up discs; it does not guarantee that every disc, region, or protection scheme will work.
When the built-in drive is enough
- You only need to read or copy existing discs.
- The drive accepts the physical format you have, such as a standard DVD.
- Your computer has suitable playback or file-access software.
- You do not need to create a new disc afterward.
When you still need another option
Use an external reader when the computer has no optical bay, when its drive is faulty, or when you want to keep the drive available for another machine. If you must write a new disc, a reader-only drive is not a substitute for a writer.
Buy an external DVD reader instead of a writer
An external DVD reader, sometimes described as a DVD-ROM drive, is the closest hardware replacement when the task is simply accessing physical media. It connects over USB and lets the computer read files or supply a DVD source to playback and conversion software. A read-only unit avoids paying for writing hardware you will not use.
Before buying, check the manufacturer’s specifications for all of the following:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Operating-system support: Confirm compatibility with your version of Windows, macOS, Linux, or another operating system.
- Connector: Match the drive’s USB plug to the ports on your computer. A USB-C computer may require an adapter or a different cable if the drive uses USB-A.
- Disc formats: Verify that it reads the type of CD or DVD you own, including recordable or rewritable media where relevant.
- Power: Some portable drives draw power from one USB port; others may need additional power. Check the supplied cable and the computer’s ability to provide it.
- Region and software constraints: Hardware and operating-system behavior can vary by region and disc type. Do not assume that a drive will play every commercial DVD.
No model-level compatibility, speed, or capacity recommendation is established here. Use the manufacturer’s current specification sheet for your exact computer and discs.
Copy ordinary data discs to a new destination
If the disc contains documents, photographs, project files, installers, or other ordinary files, you normally want a file copy rather than a video conversion. Optical media can move files between computers: read the disc, then copy the files to the computer or to a chosen transfer destination.
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USB flash drive
A USB flash drive is a convenient destination for a small or moderate collection. It is easy to connect to a second computer and does not require an optical drive at the receiving end. The available evidence supports flash storage as a practical transfer example, not a particular brand, capacity, speed, or durability winner. Choose a capacity comfortably larger than the data you intend to copy and check that both computers can read the drive’s file system.
External hard drive
An external hard drive is more suitable when the disc collection is large or when you want a local archive in addition to a one-time transfer. It can also hold disc images and converted video files. Storage capacity, interface speed, and backup reliability vary widely; the available sources do not establish a recommended size or model, so calculate your own space requirement from the discs you plan to keep.
File-copy procedure
- Connect the built-in drive or external DVD reader and insert the data disc.
- Open the disc in the operating system’s file manager and inspect the folders before copying.
- Create a clearly named destination folder on the computer, flash drive, or external hard drive.
- Copy the complete set of required files. If the disc contains several top-level folders, preserve that structure unless you have a specific reason to reorganize it.
- Open several copied files from the destination and compare their sizes with the originals. For important archives, perform a second copy or an independent verification before ejecting the source disc.
- Eject the disc safely and label the destination with the disc name and copy date.
This process creates usable files, not a bootable or byte-for-byte duplicate of the disc. If the exact layout matters, use a disc-image workflow instead.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Preserve the disc as a folder or image
There is a meaningful difference between copying the visible files and preserving the disc as an image. A folder copy is convenient for browsing and extracting individual files. A disc image is a single archive representing the disc’s structure and can be mounted later as a virtual disc or used to reproduce the source, depending on the software and media.
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Use an imaging application that supports your disc format and save the result to an internal or external hard drive. The reader supplies the data; the imaging software determines how the image is created. Keep enough free space for the source and for the image file, and avoid storing the only copy on the same physical drive as the original working data.
Image-based backup workflow
- Connect a compatible optical reader and insert the disc.
- Open your disc-imaging application and select the optical drive as the source.
- Choose an image format supported by the application you intend to use for mounting or restoration.
- Select a destination with sufficient free space and give the image a name that identifies the disc.
- Start the image operation and wait for it to finish without disconnecting the drive.
- Mount or inspect the completed image on the computer, if supported, to confirm that it opens and contains the expected folders.
- Keep a second copy when the disc is irreplaceable; an image stored on only one failing drive is not a durable backup.
Imaging preserves more of the original organization than transcoding, but it does not magically repair unreadable sectors or defeat protection. If the reader cannot reliably read the source, the image may be incomplete.
Convert supported DVD video with HandBrake
HandBrake is an open-source video transcoder for Linux, macOS, and Windows. Its documentation lists DVDs and DVD backups among supported sources and identifies MP4, MKV, and WebM as output containers. The result is a newly encoded video file that is easier to store and play on modern devices.
HandBrake is not a DVD writer, disc copier, or bit-for-bit extraction tool. It decodes and re-encodes video, so menus, interactive navigation, original disc layout, and some supplemental material may not carry over. Picture quality, file size, subtitles, chapters, and audio tracks depend on the source and the settings you select.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Why copy the disc to the hard drive first
HandBrake’s source documentation says that in most situations it is better first to copy disc contents to the computer’s hard drive. A local copy avoids repeated reads from a portable optical drive, can improve stability, and gives you a source folder that remains available if the disc is removed. You still need enough local storage for the copied contents and the encoded output.
HandBrake conversion steps
- Install the current HandBrake release for your operating system from its official distribution channel.
- Connect the optical reader and insert the DVD, or copy the disc contents to a local folder first.
- Open HandBrake and choose the optical drive or copied folder as the source.
- Let HandBrake scan the source, then select the title that contains the program you want. A DVD can contain multiple titles, extras, previews, or alternate versions.
- Choose a container such as MP4, MKV, or WebM and select a suitable preset for the device or playback software you plan to use.
- Set the destination filename and location. Make sure the destination has enough free space.
- Review the audio, subtitle, chapter, and picture settings, then start the encode.
- Play the resulting file from start to finish or sample key sections before deleting the source copy.
If you need the original menus or an unchanged archive, stop and create a disc image instead. HandBrake’s output is a convenience copy, not an exact replacement for the disc.
Copy-protection and commercial-DVD limitations
HandBrake explicitly states that it does not defeat or circumvent copy protection and does not work with DRM-protected video. Therefore, do not promise that a commercial DVD will convert, and do not infer support from the fact that an unprotected DVD backup works.
A failed scan, missing title, scrambled output, or refusal to open can result from protection, an unsupported structure, a damaged disc, or a reader problem. The lawful response is to use an authorized unprotected source or the rights holder’s permitted download or streaming option. Do not treat a converter as a method for bypassing a restriction.
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Because no particular computer, operating system, port layout, or region is specified, verify these details for your setup:
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
- Does the computer have a functioning built-in optical drive? If yes, test it with a disc before buying hardware.
- If you need an external unit, does its connector match an available USB port without relying on an unsuitable adapter?
- Does the manufacturer’s specification list your operating system?
- Can the drive read the exact CD or DVD format on your shelf?
- Will the computer provide the required USB power, or is an additional power connection needed?
- For video, do you have playback software for the source and a destination device that supports the chosen HandBrake container?
- For copying, is the destination larger than the data set, and is its file system compatible with both computers?
- For an image, does the imaging application support the source format and provide a way to verify the result?
Common problems and practical fixes
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| The external drive is not detected | Port, cable, power, or operating-system compatibility | Reconnect the cable, try another compatible port, provide the required power, and confirm the manufacturer’s OS requirements. |
| The disc appears blank or will not mount | Unreadable media, unsupported format, damaged surface, or drive limitation | Test another known-good disc, clean the media carefully, and verify that the drive reads that format. |
| Files copy with errors | Scratches, a marginal disc, or an unstable connection | Retry with a different port or reader, copy in smaller groups, and preserve any files that read successfully before attempting recovery. |
| HandBrake cannot scan the source | Unsupported structure, damaged content, or copy protection | Copy the source to the hard drive and rescan. If the disc is protected, HandBrake will not bypass that protection. |
| The converted video has no sound or subtitles | The required track was not selected | Reopen the source, select the desired audio and subtitle tracks, and encode again. |
| The output will not play on a target device | Container, codec, or device compatibility | Choose a preset and container supported by that device, then create a new encode. |
| The image operation stops partway through | Unreadable sectors or insufficient destination space | Check free space, test the disc in another reader, and do not label an interrupted image as a complete backup. |
Which option fits your situation?
You only need to open an old data disc
Use the built-in drive if available; otherwise choose a compatible external DVD reader. Copy the files to the computer or a flash drive and keep the original disc as a secondary copy.
You need to move a collection of documents
Read each disc with an optical drive, then copy the folders to an external hard drive or flash drive sized for the collection. Preserve the original folder names so the transferred archive remains understandable.
You want an archive that can recreate the disc structure
Use an optical reader and disc-imaging software. Store and verify the image on external storage, and keep another copy when the material cannot be replaced.
You want videos for a computer, phone, or media player
Use HandBrake on supported, unprotected sources. Copy the disc contents to the hard drive first when practical, select the correct title and tracks, and test the resulting MP4, MKV, or WebM file.
You must manufacture another physical DVD
A reader-only drive cannot do this. You need hardware with writing capability and software that can author the type of disc you intend to create.
What not to assume
- A USB reader is not automatically compatible with every operating system or port.
- A copied folder is not identical to a disc image.
- HandBrake’s ability to read a DVD backup does not mean it can process every commercial DVD.
- Transcoding does not preserve the original menus and disc navigation.
- A flash drive or external hard drive is a destination, not a replacement for the optical reader needed to read a physical disc.
- No storage capacity, transfer speed, or drive model should be treated as a universal recommendation without checking your collection and hardware.
Bottom line
For simple access, replace an external DVD writer with a built-in optical drive or a compatible external DVD reader. For ordinary data, copy the files to a flash drive or external hard drive. For a structural archive, create and verify a disc image. For supported, unprotected DVD video, use HandBrake to make an MP4, MKV, or WebM file after copying the source to the hard drive when practical. Choose the workflow that matches the result you need, and verify operating-system, port, format, and protection compatibility before assuming a disc will work.
Quick Recap
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