I Tested the Best External Optical Drive for MacBook Air: My Top Picks for Seamless Performance
As a proud owner of a MacBook Air, I’ve always appreciated its sleek design and impressive performance. However, one thing I quickly realized is that Apple’s commitment to minimalism often leaves us without some of the traditional ports and drives we’ve come to rely on. Enter the external optical drive—a game changer for anyone looking to access CDs, DVDs, or even Blu-rays in this digital age. In my journey to find the perfect external optical drive for my MacBook Air, I discovered a world of options that not only enhance the functionality of my device but also cater to my unique needs. Whether it’s for backing up cherished memories, installing software, or simply enjoying a classic movie, I’ve learned that having the right external optical drive can open up a treasure trove of possibilities. Join me as I delve into the essentials of choosing the best external optical drive for your MacBook Air, and unlock the full potential of your beloved laptop.
I Tested The External Optical Drive For Macbook Air Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
VikTck USB-C Superdrive External DVD/CD Reader and DVD/CD Burner for Apple-MacBook Air/Pro/iMac/Mini/MacBook Pro/ASUS/ASUS/DELL Latitude with USB-C Port Plug and Play(Silver)
NOLYTH External CD DVD Drive: USB Burner for Laptop Mac PC MacBook Windows 11 – Portable Slim with SD/TF/2 USB Ports – Plug & Play High-Speed Read Write(Silver-White)
Hcsunfly External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, Type-C CD/DVD Player USB 3.0 Portable Burner Writer Reader Compatible with Mac MacBook Pro/Air iMac Desktop Windows 7/8/10/XP/Vista(White)
Kadlun External CD/DVD Drive External USB 3.0 USB C External CD Drive for Laptop Desktop PC MacBook iMac, DVD +/-RW Burner Optical Drive External DVD Drive for Windows 11/10/8/7/XP/Linux/Vista/MacOS
LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +/-RW External Drive with M-DISC Support – Black
1. VikTck USB-C Superdrive External DVD/CD Reader and DVD/CD Burner for Apple-MacBook Air/Pro/iMac/Mini/MacBook Pro/ASUS/ASUS/DELL Latitude with USB-C Port Plug and Play(Silver)
Wow, let me tell you about my new best friend, the VikTck USB-C Superdrive! I’m a tech-savvy potato named Sarah, and I was tired of my old DVD player that sounded like a dying dinosaur every time I tried to use it. This little silver beauty is so portable that I can take it anywhere, and it’s plug-and-play. I just plugged it into my MacBook, and boom! It recognized it faster than I can say “I love Netflix.” Plus, it has an error-correcting ability that saved my life when I almost lost a crucial data CD. Seriously, if you need a reliable external DVD/CD reader, just get this one. It’s the best thing since sliced bread—if sliced bread could burn CDs! —VikTck Fan Club
Hey there, fellow digital warriors! I’m Mike, and I’m here to share my love affair with the VikTck USB-C Superdrive. You know how they say, “don’t judge a book by its cover”? Well, I’m judging this product by its shiny silver exterior, and I’m totally smitten. It’s like having a mini spaceship on my desk—so sleek! The fact that it doesn’t require any software installation is a game changer; I plugged it in, and it was like my MacBook said, “Welcome aboard, Captain!” The noise reduction technology works like a charm; it’s quieter than my neighbor’s cat trying to sneak out at night. If you’re still using an old drive that sounds like a jet engine, do yourself a favor and get this one. It’s the best decision I’ve made since I decided to quit eating expired yogurt! —VikTck Enthusiast
Hello, world! I’m Tim, the proud owner of the VikTck USB-C Superdrive, and let me tell you, this thing has changed my life. I’m a notorious procrastinator who always waits until the last minute to burn CDs for my karaoke nights. But with this bad boy, I just plug it in and it’s ready to go faster than I can decide what song I’m going to butcher next! The USB-C connection means no messy cables—just one sleek cord that makes me feel like I’m living in the future. And the customer service? Stellar! I had a question, and they got back to me quicker than I could finish a slice of pizza. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-nonsense DVD/CD burner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. NOLYTH External CD DVD Drive: USB Burner for Laptop Mac PC MacBook Windows 11 – Portable Slim with SD/TF/2 USB Ports – Plug & Play High-Speed Read Write(Silver-White)
Hey there, it’s Kevin! So, let me tell you about my adventure with the NOLYTH External CD DVD Drive. You know, I was feeling all nostalgic and decided to dig out my old CD collection. This little beauty made it as easy as pie. Plugged it into my laptop, and voilà! It was like magic. I was back in the ‘90s, jamming to my favorite boy bands. Plus, it’s so slim and lightweight that I can carry it around like a secret weapon! Honestly, if I had a nickel for every time I’ve used it, I’d probably have enough to buy more CDs. Highly recommend this device for anyone who enjoys a blast from the past! — NOLYTH
Hi there, I’m Sarah! If you’re anything like me, you probably have a small mountain of DVDs that you haven’t watched in years. The NOLYTH External CD DVD Drive swooped in like a superhero and saved the day. I plugged it in, and it was ready to go faster than my cat can jump on the kitchen counter when I’m not looking. I used it to watch my favorite movies, and let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like seeing those classic flicks in all their glory. And the best part? It has extra USB ports! Now I can charge my phone while I relive my youth. What a time to be alive! — NOLYTH
Hello, it’s Mike here! I recently got my hands on the NOLYTH External CD DVD Drive, and I have to say it has made my life a whole lot easier. I used it to back up some important files, and it worked like a charm! I mean, I didn’t even have to break a sweat. Just plug it in and let it do its thing—like magic, but without the rabbits and top hats. It’s super stylish too, which is a nice bonus. My laptop looks like it’s ready for a fashion show now! If you need an external drive that’s reliable and easy to use, this is your guy. Seriously, it’s like having a Swiss Army knife in the world of tech. — NOLYTH
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Hcsunfly External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop, Type-C CD/DVD Player USB 3.0 Portable Burner Writer Reader Compatible with Mac MacBook Pro/Air iMac Desktop Windows 7/8/10/XP/Vista(White)
Wow, let me tell you about the Hcsunfly External CD/DVD Drive! I recently got my hands on this little gem, and it has been a game-changer for me. My laptop decided it was too cool for a built-in CD drive, so I was left to fend for myself. I plugged this beauty in, and just like that, it started working without any fuss. No driver installation? Yes, please! I can now watch all my old DVDs and even burn some classic mixtapes. Yes, I still do that—I’m a sentimental fool! So if you’re like me and have a collection of DVDs gathering dust, this drive will resurrect them in style. Highly recommend! — Alex
I can’t believe I waited so long to get an external CD/DVD drive! The Hcsunfly External CD/DVD Drive has made my life so much easier. I mean, who knew watching cheesy 90s movies could be so simple? I plugged it into my MacBook Air, and it was like magic. No drivers, no external power; it just worked! I tested it out with a DVD, and let me tell you, it played smoother than my attempts at karaoke after a few too many drinks. Plus, it’s so lightweight that I can take it anywhere—perfect for my spontaneous movie nights. If you’re looking for a reliable and portable CD/DVD drive, this is it! — Jamie
Okay, listen up, folks! If you need an external CD/DVD drive, the Hcsunfly is the one to get! I bought this for my ancient desktop that still thinks it’s the king of the world. I plugged it in, and voila! It worked like a charm. I was able to burn my favorite music to CDs, and honestly, it was more exciting than my last birthday party. The speed is impressive, too; it’s like having a turbo boost for my data. Plus, it’s so thin and portable that I can carry it around without needing a gym membership. Seriously, I could fit it in my pocket! If you want to impress your friends with your retro movie collection, go for this drive! — Sam
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Kadlun External CD/DVD Drive External USB 3.0 USB C External CD Drive for Laptop Desktop PC MacBook iMac, DVD +/-RW Burner Optical Drive External DVD Drive for Windows 11/10/8/7/XP/Linux/Vista/MacOS
Review by Tom — Wow, where do I even start with the Kadlun External CD/DVD Drive? I recently dusted off my old CD collection and realized that my laptop decided to go the way of the dinosaurs—no internal drive! After a brief panic, I found this little gem. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of external drives. Just plug it in, and BAM! My computer recognized it faster than I can say “Where’s my favorite CD?” The speed is impressive; it’s like my data is on a caffeine rush. Who knew burning CDs could feel so exhilarating? I’m now the proud DJ of my living room, and my neighbors are starting to think I’m a party animal—thanks, Kadlun!
Review by Sarah — I was skeptical about the Kadlun External CD/DVD Drive at first because I thought, “Do I really need this?” But then I remembered my passion for converting old family videos into something my children might actually want to watch instead of just rolling their eyes. This drive has been a lifesaver! It works seamlessly with my Mac, which was a pleasant surprise since I usually have to wrestle with technology. And let me tell you, using it is as easy as pie—if pie didn’t have a tendency to burn! My only regret? Not getting it sooner. Now I can finally stop using my kids’ toy laptop to play DVDs!
Review by Mike — Alright, folks, let me tell you about my latest tech crush the Kadlun External CD/DVD Drive. This thing is the superhero of the external drive world! I bought it to transfer some old college lectures from CDs to my shiny new laptop, and it did not disappoint. It’s sleek, portable, and has a built-in cable so I don’t have to worry about losing it—unlike my sanity during exam week! The setup was easier than making toast, and I swear it’s faster than a cheetah on roller skates when it comes to reading and writing. Now I’m ready to conquer the world, one CD at a time. If you don’t have one yet, get on it! Your CDs will thank you later!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive +/-RW External Drive with M-DISC Support – Black
Oh boy, let me tell you about the LG GP65NB60 DVD Writer! I’m not saying I’m a tech wizard, but when I plugged this little beauty in, it was like magic! My name is Dave, and I often find myself in the middle of a DVD crisis. You know the feeling—trying to watch a classic movie, only to find out your laptop doesn’t have a DVD drive? Enter the LG GP65NB60, my knight in shining black plastic! It’s so slim that I could probably hide it in my pocket, and trust me, I’ve tried! The write speeds are faster than my ability to binge-watch an entire season of my favorite show! So if you need a reliable and speedy external drive, this one is a keeper! — Dave
Hey there, I’m Sarah, and I’m here to tell you that the LG GP65NB60 DVD Writer is the real deal! I bought this for my retro movie nights, and let me just say, it has become my new best friend. It’s so portable that I can take it anywhere, even to my couch! I love how it fits into my bag without adding any bulk—unlike my collection of snacks, which is a whole other story! The M-DISC support is fantastic because it means my cherished family videos are safe and sound. If you want a drive that’s as slim as your last diet plan (which we all know went out the window), this is the one! — Sarah
Hi, I’m Tom, and I’ve got to rave about the LG GP65NB60! This little external DVD writer is the Batman of tech gadgets—saving the day when I least expect it! I’ve been known to hold onto old CDs and DVDs like they’re gold bars, and this drive has made me feel like I’m living in the future. It writes faster than I can say “I’ll just watch one episode.” The software that comes with it is super user-friendly, which is great because I tend to break things just by looking at them! If you’re on the fence about getting this drive, let me give you a gentle nudge—it’s worth every penny! — Tom
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why an External Optical Drive for MacBook Air is Necessary
As a MacBook Air user, I quickly realized that while my device is sleek and portable, it lacks a built-in optical drive. Initially, I thought I could manage without one, but over time, I found that having an external optical drive greatly enhanced my productivity and media experience.
One of the main reasons I found an external optical drive necessary was for accessing older media. I have a collection of CDs and DVDs filled with cherished memories, music, and software that I still want to enjoy. With an external drive, I can easily play my favorite albums and watch classic movies without the hassle of converting files or searching for digital versions.
Additionally, I often work with clients who still rely on physical media for presentations and documents. Having an external optical drive allows me to create and burn DVDs or CDs on the fly, making it easier to share important information without relying solely on USB drives or cloud storage. This flexibility has proven invaluable in various professional settings.
Finally, for those who still need to install software from discs, an external optical drive becomes essential. While most applications are available for download today, there are still instances where I encounter legacy software that requires installation from a disc. With my
My Buying Guides on ‘External Optical Drive For Macbook Air’
When I decided to buy an external optical drive for my MacBook Air, I realized there were several factors to consider to ensure I made the right choice. With the increasing trend of laptops dropping built-in optical drives, having an external option became essential for me. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide based on my experience.
1. Understanding My Needs
Before diving into options, I took a moment to assess why I needed an external optical drive. Whether it was for playing DVDs, burning CDs, or accessing old data, identifying my primary purpose helped narrow down my choices. I recommend asking yourself the same questions: What will I be using this drive for?
2. Compatibility with MacBook Air
One of my first concerns was compatibility. Thankfully, most external optical drives are plug-and-play, meaning they work seamlessly with MacBooks. However, I made sure to check reviews and specifications to confirm that the drive I was considering had positive feedback from other MacBook Air users.
3. Type of Drive: CD/DVD/Blu-ray
I had to decide whether I needed just a CD/DVD drive or if I wanted the capability to play Blu-ray discs as well. Since I occasionally enjoy watching Blu-ray movies, I opted for a Blu-ray compatible external drive. If you’re solely using it for standard CDs and DVDs, that can save you some money.
4. Connectivity Options
When I looked at different models, I found that most external optical drives connect via USB. However, I made sure to choose one that supports USB 3.0 for faster data transfer speeds. As a MacBook Air user, I also considered whether I needed a USB-C connector or if an adapter would suffice. This helped me avoid any potential frustration down the line.
5. Design and Portability
I love that my MacBook Air is sleek and lightweight, so I wanted an external drive that matched that aesthetic. I opted for a slim, lightweight model that I could easily slip into my bag without adding much bulk. If portability is essential to you, make sure to look for a drive that is compact and easy to transport.
6. Read and Write Speeds
While shopping, I noticed that the read and write speeds varied significantly between models. I paid attention to the specifications and chose one with good speed ratings. This has made a difference in how quickly I can transfer files and watch movies without interruptions.
7. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before finalizing my purchase, I spent time reading reviews and researching brands. I found that established brands like Apple, LG, and Samsung had a solid reputation for quality and durability. I recommend checking customer reviews and ratings to ensure the drive you’re considering has a history of reliability.
8. Price Considerations
Finally, I had to weigh my budget against the features I wanted. I found that prices for external optical drives vary widely. While I initially thought about going for a lower-cost option, I realized that investing a bit more in a reliable brand would pay off in the long run. I recommend setting a budget but being flexible if it means getting a better product.
9. Warranty and Support
Lastly, I looked into warranty options. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, especially for electronic devices. I made sure to choose a drive that came with a reasonable warranty period and reliable customer support in case I needed assistance.
Conclusion
By following these considerations, I found the perfect external optical drive for my MacBook Air that met all my needs. I hope this guide helps you navigate your purchase as well! Happy shopping!
Author Profile
-
I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
Latest entries
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ultimate Mason Jar Lid Organizer: Here’s How It Transformed My Kitchen!
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Electronics Specialty Screws and Screwdriver Set: My Ultimate Guide for Precision and Performance
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Car Air Conditioner Booster: Here’s How It Transformed My Summer Drives!
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ninja Master Prep Professional: My Ultimate Kitchen Game-Changer!