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10 Best External Cd Player For Mac 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive with 16x Writing Speed and USB 3.0 for Both Mac/PC Optical Drive BW-16D1X-U

The ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive BW-16D1X-U is a solid choice for Mac users looking for an external CD player. Its primary strength lies in its impressive 16x writing speed, making it one of the faster options available. This drive also supports BDXL, allowing for storage capacities of up to 128 GB, which can be particularly beneficial for users who need to store large files or backups. The USB 3.0 connection ensures compatibility with both Mac and Windows systems, offering versatility for different users.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,384
Compatibility
Read and Write Speed
Supported Formats

Most important from
2253 reviews

Compatibility
Compatible with Mac OS for burning files, ripping CDs, and watching DVDs, although additional software is needed for Blu-ray movie playback.
Read and Write Speed
The ASUS drive outperformed an LG model in speed tests, significantly reducing the time taken to rip CDs and DVDs.
Supported Formats
The drive handles various Blu-ray media types, including 100GB M-Discs and 25GB rewritable discs, without errors.
Build Quality
The drive performed flawlessly for archiving large family video projects, with a straightforward setup and solid build quality.
#2
9.8 score

Portable External USB DVD Drive Compatible for Microsoft Windows 11/10/8.1 etc, Mac OS, Dell,Acer, ASUS, Apple, Samsung, Lenovo Laptop PC Desktop, CD/DVD-RW Drive, CD-RW Rewriter

This Portable External USB DVD Drive is a versatile option compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including various versions of Windows, Linux, and Mac OS, making it suitable for many users. It is designed to be plug-and-play, meaning no additional drivers or external power sources are required, which simplifies setup and use. The device is lightweight and compact with an embedded cable design, making it highly portable and convenient for users on the go.

Rating
9.8
Compatibility
Supported Formats
Build Quality

Most important from
66 reviews

Compatibility
While the external optical drive works well, the included DVD player software is outdated and not supported for Windows 10 or 11.
Supported Formats
To play DVDs, additional DVD player software needs to be downloaded.
Build Quality
The drive is immediately operable and plays CDs without any issues.
#3
9.6 score

Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XD08B USB 3.2 Gen1 (USB Type-C) / 2.0 Slim Portable BD/DVD/CD Writer, black

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XD08B serves as a versatile and user-friendly option for Mac users needing an external CD/DVD/Blu-ray player. It boasts extensive compatibility with a wide range of macOS versions, ensuring that it can work seamlessly with most Mac systems. The drive connects via USB 3.2 Gen 1 and includes a Type-C conversion cable, making it easy to connect to newer Mac models that primarily use USB-C. This connection type offers faster data transfer rates, enhancing performance when reading or writing discs.

Rating
9.6
Compatibility
Connection Type
Read and Write Speed

Most important from
299 reviews

Compatibility
Couldn't be simpler to use; just plug into an open USB port, and you're ready to watch regular DVD or Blu-ray movies and shows.
Connection Type
Couldn't be simpler to use; just plug into an open USB port, and you're ready to watch regular DVD or Blu-ray movies and shows.
Read and Write Speed
It's quick to recognize whatever disk is inserted, allowing movies and shows to play without any lag or playback issues.
Supported Formats
Couldn't be simpler to use; just plug into an open USB port, and you're ready to watch regular DVD or Blu-ray movies and shows.
Portability
Lightweight and very portable, making it great for mobile use with a laptop.
Build Quality
The unit functioned flawlessly right out of the box. The drive is functional, sleek, durable, and better, stronger, faster than previous drives.

Top 10 Best External Cd Player For Mac 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9  score

ASUS Powerful Blu-ray Drive with 16x Writing Speed and USB 3.0 for Both Mac/PC Optical Drive BW-16D1X-U

Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.6+, Windows
Connection Type: USB 3.0
Read and Write Speed: 16x
Supported Formats: BDXL
Portability: 9.5x2.5x6.5 inches, 2.6 pounds
Power Source: Separate power source required

Chosen by 1384 this week

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Portable External USB DVD Drive Compatible for Microsoft Windows 11/10/8.1 etc, Mac OS, Dell,Acer, ASUS, Apple, Samsung, Lenovo Laptop PC Desktop, CD/DVD-RW Drive, CD-RW Rewriter

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, Mac OS
Connection Type: USB
Read and Write Speed: Read: 8x DVD, 24x CD
Supported Formats: DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-R, CD-RW
Portability: Lightweight, compact, embedded cable
Power Source: USB port
Build Quality: Premium wire drawing material

Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XD08B USB 3.2 Gen1 (USB Type-C) / 2.0 Slim Portable BD/DVD/CD Writer, black

Compatibility: Windows 11, 10, 8.1, macOS 10.11+
Connection Type: USB 3.2 Gen 1, Type-C cable
Read and Write Speed: max 6X
Supported Formats: BD, DVD, CD
Portability: 230 grams, size of CD case
Power Source: USB
Build Quality: robust, sleek black finish

tengertang USB-c Super External Drive, Portable External CD/DVD-rw Writer/Player/Burner for The Latest MacBook/asus/asus/dell Latitude/MacBook Pro (Silver)

Compatibility: macOS, Linux, Windows XP, Vista, 8, 2000, 98, 10
Connection Type: USB, USB-C
Read and Write Speed: 24x CDs, 8x DVDs
Supported Formats: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-RW, DVD-RAM
Portability: Portable
Build Quality: Noise Reduction, Impact Resistance
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Buying Guide for the Best External Cd Player For Mac

Choosing an external CD player for your Mac involves understanding your needs and the specifications that will ensure compatibility and performance. Whether you need it for music, software installation, or data transfer, knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the external CD player will work with your Mac. This is crucial because not all CD players are designed to be compatible with macOS. Look for CD players that explicitly state they are compatible with Mac. This ensures that you won't face issues with drivers or software recognition.
Connection TypeConnection type is how the CD player connects to your Mac, typically via USB. USB 3.0 is faster and more efficient than USB 2.0, but USB-C is becoming more common and is often preferred for newer Mac models. Choose a connection type that matches your Mac's available ports for seamless integration.
Read/Write SpeedRead/write speed indicates how quickly the CD player can read data from or write data to a CD. Higher speeds mean faster data transfer, which is important if you plan to use the CD player frequently or for large files. Speeds are usually measured in 'x' (e.g., 24x). For general use, a moderate speed (e.g., 24x) is sufficient, but for heavy use, higher speeds (e.g., 48x) are better.
PortabilityPortability refers to the size and weight of the CD player. If you need to carry it around or use it in different locations, a lightweight and compact model is ideal. For home or office use where it will stay in one place, portability may be less of a concern.
Power SourcePower source can be either through your Mac's USB port or an external power adapter. USB-powered CD players are more convenient and portable, while externally powered ones might offer more stable performance. Choose based on your preference for convenience versus performance stability.
DurabilityDurability is about how well the CD player is built and how long it will last. Look for models with good reviews on build quality and longevity. If you plan to use the CD player frequently, investing in a durable model will save you from future replacements.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can include things like Blu-ray compatibility, multi-format support, or bundled software. These features can enhance the functionality of the CD player. Consider what extra features might be useful for your specific needs, such as watching Blu-ray movies or using different types of discs.

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