10 Best Mac Compatible External Dvd Drives 2025 in the United States

The BUFFALO 6X Portable Blu-ray Drive is a versatile external drive compatible with both Mac and Windows computers. It connects via USB 3.2 (Gen 1) Type-A and includes a Type-C adapter, offering flexible connectivity options. The drive supports Blu-ray, DVD, and CD formats, with read/write speeds of 6x for Blu-ray and 8x for DVDs, making it suitable for various media tasks.

Its compact size (5.8 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches) and lightweight design (15.2 ounces) make it highly portable, ideal for users who need an external drive on the go. The drive is powered through the USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power source, which adds to its convenience. Made in Japan, the drive promises durability and quality, further supported by its TAA compliance and a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.

However, it's worth noting that the CyberLink Media Suite for playback and burning is specifically for PC users, which might limit some functionalities for Mac users. Additionally, the price point might be higher due to its Blu-ray capabilities and build quality. This drive also supports M-DISC for long-lasting recordings, which is a significant advantage for those needing reliable data storage. This drive is a strong choice for users looking for a portable, high-quality external Blu-ray drive compatible with both Mac and Windows.

The OWC Mercury Pro 16X Blu-ray and DVD drive is a solid choice for anyone needing an external optical drive, especially for Mac users. It's compatible with both macOS and Windows, which makes it versatile for different users. One of its standout features is the aluminum housing, which not only gives it a sleek appearance but also adds to its durability. Its USB 3.0 connection ensures fast data transfer rates, with a writing speed of up to 48X for CDs and decent speeds for DVDs and Blu-rays as well.

What sets this drive apart is its support for M-DISC technology, making it a great option for long-term data storage. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize the longevity of their data. The drive’s relatively lightweight and portable design also means it can be easily transported, making it a good choice for users on the go.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While it’s generally user-friendly, those not familiar with external drives might need to read the user manual for initial setup. Additionally, being a desktop drive, it does require an external power source, which might not appeal to those looking for a completely portable solution. Its physical size could be a bit bulky for some users compared to slim, ultra-portable alternatives. The OWC Mercury Pro is ideal for Mac users needing a reliable, stylish external drive that offers impressive read/write speeds and long-term storage options. It might be best suited for those who value durability and performance over extreme portability.

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XS07UHD offers a robust solution for Mac users looking for a versatile external DVD drive. It excels in compatibility, supporting a wide range of macOS versions right from El Capitan to the latest ones. This ensures it meets the needs of those with various Mac setups. Its connection type is modern, utilizing USB 3.2 Gen 1 and a USB Type-C connector, making it a good fit for both older and newer Mac models that favor Type-C. With a 6x write speed, it is suitable for everyday disc-burning tasks, although not the fastest available. It includes M-DISC support, which is beneficial for long-term data storage, adding to its usefulness as a reliable data preservation tool.

In terms of size and portability, the drive is compact and lightweight at just 9.9 ounces, and it can be mounted vertically, saving desk space, which is a plus for those with limited work areas. The inclusion of a slot loading mechanism is praised for its dustproof capabilities and quiet operation, enhancing its appeal for those who value a tidy workspace and noise control. A matte-black rubber-coated finish gives it a sleek look, although the rubber coating might attract dust over time.

The drive is bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from the USB port, which is convenient as it doesn't require an additional power source. However, this might slightly limit performance if used with older USB ports. While the product is well-regarded, with a customer rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, some users might find the need to update firmware occasionally a bit of a hassle.

For those prioritizing durability, the drive's design and the warranty update are reassuring, though it's wise to verify the warranty terms in the provided user manual. The drive's inclusion of Cyberlink software is an added bonus, particularly for users needing software support for media tasks. This product is ideal for Mac users seeking a compact, versatile Blu-ray drive with modern connectivity and reliable performance for everyday use.