My desktop disc drive has started shaking the table. Should I stop using it?

I’d stop using it for now, especially if the vibration is strong or comes with grinding, rattling, or a burning smell. A disc spinning unevenly can put extra strain on the drive, and there’s no real benefit to letting it keep going while you troubleshoot.

With the computer off, eject the disc and check that it isn’t cracked, dirty, or visibly warped. If the shaking happens with more than one disc, the drive itself or how it’s mounted becomes more likely.

Check the simple physical stuff first. If you’re comfortable opening the case, shut the computer down and unplug it, then see whether the drive is firmly secured and whether any mounting screws or vibration-dampening pieces are missing or loose. A loose drive can make normal spin noise much worse.

If it still vibrates when mounted securely with different discs, I’d treat the drive as failing and replace it rather than trying to use it through the noise.

Some vibration while a disc spins is normal. Shaking the table is not something I’d call ordinary, particularly if it started suddenly and happens across multiple discs. It could be a problem with the drive’s spindle or another internal part, though you can’t confirm that from the sound alone.

If you need the drive, a replacement is usually the straightforward fix. Otherwise, you can leave it disconnected or remove it and use an external drive when needed.