Best external DVD/CD reader

[strawbale]

Looking for a reliable and robust external DVD/CD reader, to replace the dying internal ones of my 2 Mac Minis (2007 on 10.6.8) and MBP 17" (2007 on 10.11.6). Would also be used with my new Mac Mini (2018).
Shape & size not important, reliability & robustness is, with fast speeds as a bonus (but not essential).
Purpose: adding CDs to my iTunes libraries, watching DVDs, installing occasional programmes

Any suggestions much appreciated!

 

[weaztek]

I picked up the LG 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD+/-RW External Drive GP60NS50 for about $30. It's really not robust though. You have to take care opening the drawer and putting the disc onto the spindle.

I'd say get it and be careful of it in use. Then if it breaks in a year or two get another one (or two) for $30 and you'll still be cheaper than buying a metal one.

It does work on my 2018 Mini even under 10.15 Catalina.

 

[Super Spartan]

Looking for a reliable and robust external DVD/CD reader, to replace the dying internal ones of my 2 Mac Minis (2007 on 10.6.8) and MBP 17" (2007 on 10.11.6). Would also be used with my new Mac Mini (2018).
Shape & size not important, reliability & robustness is, with fast speeds as a bonus (but not essential).
Purpose: adding CDs to my iTunes libraries, watching DVDs, installing occasional programmes

Any suggestions much appreciated!

I use this one: Pioneer BDR-XD05B . 6x Slim Portable USB 3.0 BD/DVD/CD Burner. Supports BDXL™ format

 

[TheIntruder]

If reliability and robustness are important, one is better off getting a full-sized drive instead of a slim drive. That was true back when discs were much more commonly used, and I don't think things have changed.

What has changed is that 5.25" enclosures with modern interfaces are much less common, so between the cost of the bare drive and the enclosure, one could afford to buy two or three slim drives even if they expire.

But for a heavy user, it may be worth the cost.

 

[strawbale]

I use this one: Pioneer BDR-XD05B . 6x Slim Portable USB 3.0 BD/DVD/CD Burner. Supports BDXL™ format

I saw in the specs "OS X 10.6 - 10.12", but see you're on Catalina, so fine up to 10.15 ?

 

[Super Spartan]

I saw in the specs "OS X 10.6 - 10.12", but see you're on Catalina, so fine up to 10.15 ?

Yup

 

[tibas92013]

Over the last six(6) years I have bought two(2) External Apple Superdrive(s) in which I have "burned" over five hundred(500) copies of my original DVD Movie Library using the excellent "MAC DVD Ripper Pro" software. Both of these were connected via USB to my MM(Late 2012) and MM 2014.
These also "burn" CDs;so,One happy Apple-Camper here!