Despite the fact that today USB flash drives are still in first place, optical drives are far from the last in necessity. Various information, audio, video recordings– many are sold on disks, which is why CD and DVD drives are necessary.
Why are they needed if everything can be downloaded on the Internet?
1. Many games or programs are released on licensed discs, and many games, for example, will refuse and will not work at all without the presence licensed disk in the drive.
2. Many people may want to write or rewrite information onto a disk; in the end, they may want to install some program, but its distribution package is located only on the disk.
3. If there is very little space left on the hard drive, you can free it up by burning everything to CDs, but you can’t write a lot of information on USB-Flash drives.
4. Installing Windows, fixing errors or cleaning it from viruses is quite problematic without a disk drive. Of course, you can write the system to a USB flash drive, however licensed Windows will still be on disk.
Therefore, the disk drive is still a necessary part of the computer. There's enough good online store, where you can buy good disk drives at a fairly reasonable price.
What types of disk drives are there?
Current disk drives can write and read information from any CD and DVD discs. Many have technology for recording pictures on top part disk. Some can read and write Blue-Ray discs.
When choosing a drive, you need to focus on its writing speed. Angry CD-R recordings the optimal speed will be 40-48x, for CD-RW – 20-24x. For recording DVD-R and DVD+R, the maximum speed is 16x, and for DVD-RW – 6-8x.
It is important to pay attention to which connector the drive has. IDE - the connector is already outdated, and if you chose it, then check whether the same one is available on motherboard. SATA – this connector is used in almost all computers. Therefore, it is best to use the second one.
And the last criterion for choosing an optical drive is the manufacturer itself. The undisputed leader here due to quality and reliability is Plextor. LG, Samsung and Transcend also produce equally high-quality products with good price ranges.
When choosing a drive, you need to decide for yourself exactly what disk formats you will have to work with. speeds are traditionally calculated in “X”. 1x for CDs is the speed of reading Audio CDs at first optical drives. It is equal to 150 kB/s. For DVD 1x –1.385 MB/s. That is 9 times more. Plus, DVD spins at 1x speed, 3 times faster than CD. So it turns out that at 16x the DVD rotates the same way as a CD at 48x.
CD-ROM– purchased discs with programs, videos, music. Capacity – 700 MB. Used for read only. Maximum speed readings – 56 x. Typical – 40 x, 48 x, 52 x. Quite often, manufacturers limit themselves to 40 x (6 MB/s), since with a further increase in speed, the noise during drive operation increases significantly.
CD-R– write-once discs. Capacity – 700 MB. Reading speed is the same as CD-ROM. When recording, the most commonly used speeds are 40x and 48x. The whole process lasts less than 3-4 minutes. But intermediate values are also possible: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 32 x. At 1x speed, writing 700 MB of data takes 1 hour 20 minutes (remember the “80 minutes” designation on the disk?).
CD-RW– discs that support rewriting. Capacity – 700 MB. Resource – 1000 rewrites. Reading speed rarely exceeds 40x. Can also be 32x and 24x. Recording is a little more difficult. Unfortunately, there are no CD-RW discs that can be written over a wide range of speeds. Media are divided into 4 types: CD-RW (1-4x), Hi-Speed CD-RW (HS, 4-12x), Ultra Hi-Speed (UHS, 12-24x) and Ultra Hi-Speed+ (UHS+, 24- 32x). UHS disks are the most widespread. Modern drives support rewriting at a maximum speed of 24x or 32x, while they are backward compatible with slower discs.
DVD-ROM– purchased disks with a capacity of 4.7 GB (single-layer) or 8.5 GB (double-layer). Used for read only. Note that these “gigabytes” are not simple, they have 1 KB = 1000 bytes, and 1 MB = 1000 KB. As a result, the real disk size available for reading is 4.377 GB for a single-layer disk and 7.916 GB for a double-layer disk.
DVD-R and DVD+R– write-once disks with a capacity of 4.7 GB. The division into “+” and “-” has remained since the format war. But all modern drives support both positive and negative blanks.
In fast drives, the maximum reading speed corresponds to DVD-ROM - 16x. In older models it can be 12x, 10x and even 8x. The maximum recording speed is 16x, the minimum recording time is 6.5 minutes. But you can do it slower: 1, 2, 4, 8x. Recording at 1x speed takes approximately 56 minutes.
DVD-R DL and DVD+R DL– two-layer write-once discs with a capacity of 8.5 GB. This is perhaps the latest of the DVD formats. A further step of progress is the transition to Blu-ray and HD-DVD. The read speed of dual-layer discs is limited to 8x. Some drives will not accelerate faster than 4-6x. Reading speeds today have reached 8x for DVD+R DL and 4x for DVD-R DL. In general, the maximum for two-layer formats is 8x.
DVD-RW and DVD+RW– discs that support rewriting. Capacity – 4.7 GB. Reading speed is usually 6-8x. DVD+RW recording reaches 8x speed, DVD-RW – 6x.
DVD-RAM– rewritable discs that can be written and read from simultaneously. Capacity – 4.7 GB. Available in two types - with and without a protective cartridge. The presence of a cartridge significantly increases the disk resource. Relatively expensive.
You should not chase the maximum speeds for reading CDs. The time gain is small, but the drive noise and disk wear are noticeable. It makes sense to stay at 40-48x. In the case of DVD, the recording speed of dual-layer discs is not the main thing. How often will you write them down? In addition, high-speed blanks are expensive and almost never appear on sale. DVD-RAM support is needed quite rarely, mainly in the presence of household DVD recorders that use this format. DVD-RAM with a cartridge is used only for storing archives important information. If desired, DVD-RAM can be safely abandoned.
By purchasing an external drive for a laptop, the user gets the opportunity to read and write information from external media such as CD, DVD and even Blu-Ray.
And although using USB flash drives and even flash cards for the same purposes is not only more convenient and simpler, but sometimes faster, purchasing such a gadget may become a necessity.
And if for desktop computer It’s more profitable to buy built-in drives (the operating speed of which is also higher), but for a laptop and, especially, a netbook, only a model with external placement is suitable.
The need to purchase an external drive
A few years ago, most users of desktop and mobile PCs did not even think about the need to separately purchase an external drive. The devices were already built into the computer design - moreover, most often recording and operating at maximum speed.
However, over time, the need for disk drives gradually decreased, and manufacturers stopped including them as standard features of their products. They stopped installing them on laptops even earlier, giving preference to built-in card readers, and on netbooks there was no disc playback at all.
However, there can be many reasons to use a disk drive:
- viewing good movie, especially in Blu-Ray quality (which is not easy to find on the Internet and, especially, to download if the Internet speed leaves much to be desired);
- viewing an old video (school graduation, children's party, wedding) stored on the disk;
- launching a program or game that can only be played from the disc. And if the majority gaming applications can be found on the network already hacked - although this is not entirely legal, serious software (for example, mapping or intended for working with graphics) may not be there.
Rice. 1. External drive on a laptop.
Another reason to purchase a disk drive may be to replace the already worn-out one built into the laptop. As a rule, repairing or replacing this internal part of a mobile PC will allow you to use it on several computers at once.
They are also much less noisy and do not freeze as often compared to those installed on standard laptops. Some models can play Blu-Ray discs (an option not found on any standard laptop). And finally, stylish and attractive to look at external device will allow you to add variety to the interior of the user's desktop.
Features of choice
When choosing a suitable drive, there is practically no point in paying attention to the read and write speed - they are almost the same for all models - up to 10800 Kb/s for DVDs, up to 3600 Kb/s for CDs..
The only thing that may differ is the ability to play discs of a relatively new format (Blu-Ray). Devices that allow you to work with such media are much more expensive and are not needed by every user. Although a promising recording format large quantity data onto standard-sized media is now becoming popular - although mainly for storing movies with high resolution.
Reading and writing CDs and DVDs
The average cost of equipment capable of working only with CDs and DVDs does not exceed 2–2.5 thousand rubles. But that's all modern models capable of both reading and writing appropriate types of media at the maximum available speed. The only model that goes beyond the budget segment is designed specifically to work with Apple devices.
Apple SuperDrive MD564ZM/A
The 64ZM/A is a unique-looking external drive designed to fit any Apple computer. Moreover, the compact and light-weight gadget is specially adapted to work with models MacBook Pro, Mac Mini and MacBook Air, which can be easily connected using a USB interface.
Technical specifications:
- read and write speed for DVD: 8x and 6x for DVD-RW, 8x and 8x for rewritable DVDs;
- read and write speed for CD: 24x and 24x;
- cost: from 6000 rub.
Rice. 2. Model 64ZM/A with a classic apple on the body.
ASUS SDRW-08D2S-U Lite USB 2.0
Elegant design external drive ASUS SDRW-08D2S-U Lite allows it to look good on both home and office desks. At the same time, the gadget can protect recorded data with a password and create hidden directories on the disk.
In order to simplify its setup when connecting for the first time, you should use the included disk with software and instructions.
Device parameters:
- work with DVD: reading 8x, writing from 6x to 8x;
- work with CD: 24x for both reading and writing;
- prices: from 2400 rub.
Rice. 3. External drive SDRW-08D2S-U from Asus.
ASUS SDRW-08U5S-U Ultra Drive
The SDRW-08U5S-U drive from Asus easily connects to computers and laptops with any modern operating system. Among its advantages are its minimal thickness (13 mm) and a support built into the body.
The latter makes it possible to install the drive in a vertical position - this way it takes up less space and looks even more stylish. The drive protects information written to discs using an encryption function, consumes minimal power and automatically goes into sleep mode.
Device parameters:
- disk reading speed: CD – 24x, DVD – 8x;
- disk recording speed: CD – 24x, DVD – 8x;
- prices: from 2200 rub.
Rice. 4. One more Asus model, but with the possibility of vertical installation.
Transcend DVD±RW TS8XDVDS-W USB 2.0 External Ultra Slim
The TS8XDVDS-W USB 2.0 model is lightweight and comes with special Media Suite 10 software, making it easier to record multimedia files.
Other advantages of an external drive include the ability to record double-layer discs, information protection, and rubber feet that prevent it from sliding on the surface. And among the shortcomings, only one can be noted - the white body quickly becomes dirty even with simple dust. Although it is also easy to wash.
Specifications:
- maximum CD reading or writing speed: 24x;
- reading and DVD recording: 8th speed;
- prices: from 1800 rub.
Rice. 5. Portable budget gadget from Transcend.
LG GP70NS50
A portable device from the LG brand takes up minimal space both on the table and in the bag where it is carried. It also supports work with M-DISC technology, which improves the quality of information recording. The gadget connects not only to laptops, but also to TVs, desktop PCs and even photo frames, working from the USB input.
In addition, the GP70NS50 comes with Jamless Play technology, which prevents video playback from stopping even if the disc has scratches or other damage. And the disc reading speed is controlled by a special Silent Play function. With its help, the noise from the drive is also minimal.
Device parameters:
- prices: from 2700 rub.;
- reading: CD – 24x, DVD-R – 8x;
- recording: CD – 24 speed, DVD – 8 speed;
- dubbing: CD – 16x, DVD – 6x.
Rice. 6. Model LG GP70NS50 – high functionality and stylish design.
Drives for reading and writing Blu-Ray
While external CD/DVD drives are sufficient for most users, only models designed to read Blu-Ray discs are suitable for watching modern high-definition movies. Their cost is higher, although not much. And, if desired, you can select options without recording media - only for reading multimedia files.
ASUS SBC-06D2X-U
The appearance of the ASUS SBC-06D2X-U model is complemented by an excellent opportunity to save space by installing the drive vertically. The glossy surface of the case is easy to clean from dirt.
And the price is quite affordable for a device that can play not only CDs and DVDs, but also Blu-Ray. The disadvantage of the drive is the inability to record discs in the new format. Although for those users who are going to use Blu-Ray only to watch movies, this option is quite suitable.
Main characteristics of the model:
- speed of working with CDs: 24x for writing and reading;
- working with DVD: 6–8x for writing, 8x for reading;
- Blu-Ray reading speed: 6x;
- cost: from 6000 rub.
Rice. 7. A Blu-Ray disc reader is a good option for movie buffs.
Verbatim External Slimline USB 3.0 Blu-ray Write
The design of the External Slimline USB 3.0 Blu-ray Write model from the Verbatim brand resembles the surface of a wooden table. Although in fact the device is made of aluminum and is quite resistant to external influences. At the same time, it can also burn Blu-Ray discs, takes up minimal space and only works from USB port, without requiring additional power.
The device is equipped with special software from Nero, designed to improve the efficiency of recording media, and is compatible with discs up to 100 GB (BDXL).
Technical specifications:
- CD writing and reading speed: 24x;
- DVD writing and reading speed: 5–8x and 8x;
- Blu-Ray writing and reading speed: 6x;
- cost: from 7500 rub.
Rice. 8. Slimline USB 3.0 Blu-Ray Write drive with a wood-grain design.
Asus Blu-ray USB 3.0
The large dimensions of the BW-12D1S-U/BLK/G/AS model are fully compensated by its capabilities. Among them:
- High speed reading and writing data using USB interface 3.0. Unlike most other models, this one is capable of burning Blu-Ray discs at 12x, DVDs at 16x, and CDs at 40x;
- Possibility of vertical installation;
- Includes special licensed software Cyberlink PowerDVD 10 for converting 2D videos into 3D images.
Main characteristics:
- work with DVD: writing from 5x (for DVD-RAM) to 8x, reading - 8x;
- work with CD: reading and writing at 24x speed;
- Blu-Ray disc recording: from 2nd to 12th speed;
- Blu-Ray disc reading: 8x;
- cost: 9000 rub.
Rice. 9. Model BW-12D1S-U/BLK/G/AS – spectacular appearance, high speed.
LG BP50NB40
Among the advantages of the LG BP50NB40 model is its relatively low cost, comparable to the parameters of some models that can only read the Blu-Ray format. Meanwhile, the device can record these discs, although at a lower speed compared to other drives. The second advantage is the size of the gadget, which is not much larger than the dimensions of the disks themselves.
Device parameters:
- speed formula for CD: 24/24;
- DVD formula: 5/8;
- formula for Blu-Ray format: 2/6;
- prices: from 6000 rub.
Rice. 10. LG BP50NB40, one of the most compact drives for reading Blu-Ray discs.
3 Q 3 QODD- T101 BR- W.B.02
The ASUS BW-12D1S-U device is designed for reading and writing CD and DVD discs. However, when working with the more modern Blu-Ray format, only playback is possible. However, for a model with such a price this is not a disadvantage.
Technical data of the device:
- reading and writing CDs: up to 24x;
- DVD reading and writing: up to 8x;
- reading Blu-Ray format: up to 8x;
- drive price: from 3700 rub.
conclusions
Availability of external drive – best option for a laptop owner who wants to watch a movie from the original media or run an application (most often a game) that works only from the disk.
For most other tasks, it's best to use faster, smaller, and more reliable USB drives. Moreover, their price is significantly lower compared to external optical drives, and the volume of transferred data is comparable to that of Blu-Ray drives.
Transcend external DVD drive review
External drive for laptop: features, popular models