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 Verbatim External Slimline CD DVD Blu-Ray Writer is a versatile and compact option for those needing a mac-compatible external drive. It excels in compatibility, supporting both Windows (8/10/11) and Mac OS X 10.6 or higher, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The connection is facilitated through USB 3.2 Gen 1, ensuring faster data transfer rates, although it's also compatible with USB 2.0, which is a plus for older systems.

One of the standout features is its slim and lightweight design, housed in an attractive aluminum enclosure, making it highly portable for users on the go. This drive supports a variety of disc formats, including BDXL discs, allowing for storage capacities up to 100GB. The inclusion of a 25GB Blu-ray disc is a nice addition for those ready to start archiving immediately.

The drive offers decent read/write speeds — 6X for Blu-ray, 8X for DVD, and 24X for CD — which should meet the needs of most casual users. However, speed may not satisfy those requiring rapid data processing. The power is conveniently supplied via a USB Y cable or an external power supply, but the need for a dual USB connection might be cumbersome in situations with limited USB ports. Durability is ensured by Verbatim's reputation and the 2-year limited warranty backing the drive. However, the included Nero software is only compatible with Windows, potentially limiting its utility for Mac users looking for integrated software solutions.

In conclusion, this drive is particularly well-suited for users who value portability and broad compatibility, though those relying heavily on Mac-specific software should consider additional tools for full functionality. The balance of features and convenience makes it a solid choice for everyday use.

The Pioneer External Blu-ray Drive BDR-XS07S is a portable and stylish device, designed to cater to Mac users needing an external DVD drive. Its sleek silver finish complements modern computers, making it an attractive addition. With a write speed of 6x and support for various formats including BD, DVD, and M-DISC, it offers solid performance for most standard tasks. The USB Type-C connection allows for compatibility with newer Mac models, while the included USB Type-C cable adds convenience right out of the box.

One of the notable strengths is its support for M-DISC, allowing users to store data long-term. This feature could be especially appealing for those who prioritize data preservation. However, the drive does not support Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, which might be a limitation for users seeking high-definition capabilities.

In terms of portability, the drive is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. While the drive is compatible with a wide range of macOS versions, it lacks bundled software, meaning users need to source their own applications for specific tasks. Additionally, its operation may produce louder sounds if lower-quality discs are used, which could be a concern in quiet environments.