My laptop doesn't have a built-in disc drive, and I'd like to play DVDs and Blu-ray discs on it. I'm considering an external USB drive, but many products have poor or confusing reviews—especially because the listings often focus on burning discs rather than simply reading them. What should I look for, and are there reliable options at a reasonable price?
4 Answers
Also keep the playback software and copy protection in mind. DVDs are usually straightforward, but commercial Blu-ray playback can require compatible software, licensing, and sometimes the right hardware support across the drive, computer, and display. USB 3.0 is preferable for Blu-ray, although the drive should still be clearly labeled for Blu-ray reading rather than just DVD writing.
Used hardware can be a good middle ground. You can look for a used internal Blu-ray reader and put it in a compatible USB enclosure. That can cost less than a new external drive, but you’ll need to verify that the enclosure supports the drive and that the drive actually reads Blu-ray discs.
Blu-ray is a different situation. Make sure the listing explicitly says that the drive reads Blu-ray discs—many cheap external drives only support CDs and DVDs even when the product description is unclear. A name-brand Blu-ray drive is safer, though prices are often around $50–$100 or more. Models from Pioneer, ASUS, or Buffalo are worth researching.
For standard DVDs, almost any decent external USB DVD reader or writer should work. You don’t need an expensive model just to watch DVDs; many inexpensive drives in the $10–$30 range are perfectly adequate. Make sure your laptop has the right USB connection, or use a USB-C adapter if necessary.
That’s helpful—especially the reminder to verify Blu-ray support, since several listings I found were vague about it.