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Best External Blu Ray Writer (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to back up data, or transfer large files quickly, an external blu ray writer could be just what you need. These devices allow you to read and write blu ray discs, which offer much larger storage capacity than DVDs or CDs. But before you buy one, there are a few factors you should consider.

Firstly, make sure the writer is compatible with your computer. Some models may require specific software or hardware requirements, so it’s important to check this before making a purchase. Another important factor is the write speed – faster speeds mean you can burn data more quickly, but may also come at a higher price point.

When it comes to choosing the right external blu ray writer, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions. Do you need to read and write blu ray discs frequently, or is this a one-off purchase? Will you be using it for personal or professional purposes? And, of course, how much are you willing to spend? By thinking through these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the right product for your needs.

10 Best External Blu Ray Writer

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for playing and writing UHD 4K Blu-Ray discs on both PC and Mac through an external USB 3.0 connection.
2
The product is ideal for easily reading and writing CD, DVD, and Blu-ray discs via USB connection.
3
The product is ideal for high-quality data storage and backup with support for M-DISC.
4
The product is ideal for users who need a portable and compatible Blu-ray writer that supports M-DISC and BDXL discs.
5
The product is ideal for reading and writing data on Blu-ray and DVD discs in a slim and portable format.
6
The product is ideal for burning and writing DVDs and CDs on 2012 to 2019 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, new iMac, and all Windows PCs.
7
The product is ideal for individuals looking for an external Blu-Ray writer with BDXL support.
8
This product is ideal for reading and writing Blu-ray, DVD, and CD disks on laptops, MacBooks, PCs, and Windows 11 devices.
9
The product is ideal for Apple users who want to add an external Blu-Ray writer to their device.
10
This product is ideal for playing and burning Blu-rays, DVDs, and CDs on laptop, desktop PCs, and Macs with USB connection.
Ideal for playing and writing UHD 4K Blu-Ray discs on both PC and Mac through an external USB 3.0 connection.
The product is ideal for easily reading and writing CD, DVD, and Blu-ray discs via USB connection.
The product is ideal for high-quality data storage and backup with support for M-DISC.
The product is ideal for users who need a portable and compatible Blu-ray writer that supports M-DISC and BDXL discs.
The product is ideal for reading and writing data on Blu-ray and DVD discs in a slim and portable format.
The product is ideal for burning and writing DVDs and CDs on 2012 to 2019 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, new iMac, and all Windows PCs.
The product is ideal for individuals looking for an external Blu-Ray writer with BDXL support.
This product is ideal for reading and writing Blu-ray, DVD, and CD disks on laptops, MacBooks, PCs, and Windows 11 devices.
The product is ideal for Apple users who want to add an external Blu-Ray writer to their device.
This product is ideal for playing and burning Blu-rays, DVDs, and CDs on laptop, desktop PCs, and Macs with USB connection.

1. Archgon Premium Aluminum External Usb 3.0 Uhd 4k Blu-Ray Writer Super Drive For Pc And Mac

Experience high-quality playback and recording with the Premium External UHD 4K Blu-Ray Writer Super-Multi Drive. This drive features a CNC aluminum body that ensures durability and longevity. It supports M-DISC BD-R, making it ideal for archiving important data. The UHD Blu-ray drive can read UHD, read and write regular Blu-Ray, DVD, and CD with proper software. To use regular Blu-ray, DVD, and CD, you can use the applicable software that comes with your computer, or search for the appropriate software to install on your computer.

For playback of UHD Blu-ray, the manufacturer recommends using “CyberLink PowerDVD”. It is a 3rd party software that requires additional purchase, and it is the only one that is found to be reliable. Before purchasing, make sure your equipment meets the CyberLink PowerDVD requirements by going through a compatibility test by searching for 'Ultra HD Blu-ray Advisor'. Please note that Cyberlink PowerDVD currently has only a PC version. There is no suitable UHD Blu-ray software available at this time for MAC users. Therefore, Mac computers can only play and write regular Blu-ray, DVD, and CD but not the UHD format.

It is important to avoid using illegal downgrade firmware or playback software, as it may damage the functionality of the UHD drive. By following the manufacturer's recommendations, you can enjoy high-quality playback and recording with the Premium External UHD 4K Blu-Ray Writer Super-Multi Drive.

Pros

  • CNC aluminum body for durability and longevity
  • Supports M-DISC BD-R for archiving important data
  • Can read UHD, read and write regular Blu-Ray, DVD, and CD with proper software
  • Easy to use with applicable software that comes with your computer, or search for appropriate software to install on your computer

Cons

  • – Requires additional purchase of 3rd party software “CyberLink PowerDVD” for reliable playback of UHD Blu-ray
  • – Limited to PC version of Cyberlink PowerDVD, with no suitable UHD Blu-ray software available for MAC users
  • – Illegal downgrade firmware or playback software may damage the functionality of the UHD drive

2. Verbatim Blu-Ray Writer: Ultimate Disc Solution!

The Verbatim External Blu-ray Writer is an all-in-one solution for reading and writing blank media such as CD, DVD, Blu-ray and MDisc. It is compatible with Windows and Mac OS up to Mac OS 13.1 (Ventura). However, it may not support Mac OS 13.2. To ensure that your system is capable of Blu-ray movie playback, download and run CyberLink BD Advisor. Please note that movie playback requires playback software which is not included. You can purchase playback software from 3rd party vendors such as Cyberlink, Nero, Aiseesoft, VLC, RealPlayer or others. Refer to the manual for additional software options.

This external Blu-ray writer is equipped with USB 3.2 Gen 1 performance and is compatible with USB 2.0. It comes with a USB Type-C adapter for easy connectivity. The maximum write speeds achievable with this device are 6X for Blu-ray, 8X for DVD and 24X for CD. The device is also compatible with BDXL discs which can store up to 100GB of data. Additionally, it is M DISC Ready which makes it a perfect archival solution for its industry-leading disc lifetime expectancies.

It is recommended to use a powered USB hub if you are using a hub to ensure sufficient power to the device. Verbatim has been a highly trusted brand since 1969 and guarantees this product with a 1-year Limited Warranty.

Pros

  • Compatible with a wide range of blank media including CD, DVD, Blu-ray and MDisc
  • Equipped with USB 3.2 Gen 1 performance and is compatible with USB 2.0
  • Comes with a USB Type-C adapter for easy connectivity
  • Maximum write speeds of 6X for Blu-ray, 8X for DVD and 24X for CD
  • Compatible with BDXL discs up to 100GB
  • M DISC Ready for industry-leading disc lifetime expectancies
  • Trusted brand with a 1-year Limited Warranty

Cons

  • – Playback software is not included and needs to be purchased separately
  • – May not support Mac OS 13.2

3. Ultra-Slim Lg Blu Ray & Dvd Writer

The External Slim Portable Blu-ray Writer is an excellent choice for those who need a convenient way to read and write various disc formats. With its USB 2.0 interface, users can easily connect it to their computer or laptop for fast and reliable data transfer. The drive has a buffer memory of 4 MB, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operation during data transfer.

This Blu-ray writer boasts impressive write speeds, such as CD-R at 24X, CD-RW at 16X, DVDR SL/DL at 8X, DVDRW at 8X/6X, DVD-RAM at 5X, BD-R SL/DL at 6X, and BD-RE SL/DL/TL at 2X. Moreover, it also has high read speeds of CD-R/RW/ROM at 24X, DVD-ROM at 8X, and BD-ROM SL/DL at 6X. With a sustained transfer rate of 26.97 MB/s, users can expect fast and reliable data transfer.

This Blu-ray writer is slim and portable, making it easy to carry around anywhere. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it an excellent choice for anyone who needs to work across different platforms.

Pros

  • High write and read speeds for various disc formats
  • Slim and portable design for easy carrying
  • Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems

Cons

  • – Only has USB 2.0 interface

4. Lg Ultra Slim Portable Blu-Ray Writer Bundle

Looking for a reliable external burner that can provide permanent data storage? Look no further than the LG external burner and 1 pack of Blu-ray M-DISC BD bundle! This bundle includes an external burner that supports M-DISC technology, allowing you to write onto a non-volatile rock-like data layer that lasts up to 1000 years.

The M-DISC technology used in this bundle is more durable than reflective organic dye-based layers found in conventional discs, making it an ideal choice for long-term data storage. With maximum burn speeds of 6x for BD-R, 8x for DVD-R/+R, and 24x for CD-R, you can quickly and easily burn your data onto the M-DISCs.

This external burner is compatible with Mac OS X (10.7.5 or higher), Windows XP (SP3 or higher), Vista, 7, 8/8.1, and has a buffer size of 4MB with a buffer under-run prevention function embedded. The bundle also includes one pack of Blu-ray M-DISC BD, so you can start using it right away.

If you're looking for an external burner that provides reliable and long-lasting data storage, the LG external burner and 1 pack of Blu-ray M-DISC BD bundle is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Uses M-DISC technology for permanent data storage lasting up to 1000 years
  • More durable than reflective organic dye-based layers found in conventional discs
  • Maximum burn speeds of 6x for BD-R, 8x for DVD-R/+R, and 24x for CD-R
  • Compatible with Mac OS X (10.7.5 or higher), Windows XP (SP3 or higher), Vista, 7, 8/8.1
  • Buffer size of 4MB with a buffer under-run prevention function embedded

5. Lg Electronics Ultra Slim Portable Blu-Ray/dvd Writer Optical Drive – Bp60nb10

Experience a smoother and more enjoyable movie playback with this USB 2.0 Blu-ray and DVD player. It is designed to reduce the noise that comes from disc spinning, resulting in a quieter and more peaceful movie experience. This player is also capable of smoothing out playback of damaged Blu-ray or DVD discs, giving you uninterrupted viewing pleasure.

With its DVD-RAM and CD family read/write compatibility, this player is a versatile addition to your entertainment system. You can easily switch between different types of discs, making it a convenient all-in-one player for your home or office.

Pros

  • Reduces noise from disc spin for a quieter movie experience
  • Smooths out playback of damaged Blu-ray or DVD discs
  • DVD-RAM and CD family read/write compatible
  • Versatile all-in-one player

6. Blu-Ray Burner: Mac And Windows Compatible

Experience great performance with this external Blu-ray drive that allows you to read and burn Blu-ray discs (BD), CDs, and DVDs. The drive can read CD discs at up to 24x, DVD discs at up to 8x, and Blu-ray discs at up to 6x, and also supports 8.5G 4.7G 700M CD DVD burning capabilities.

Connectivity is not an issue with this drive, as it comes with both USB C and USB 3.0 high-speed interfaces, which offer a maximum speed of 10Gbps and stable performance with strong fault tolerance. It is also backwards compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0.

The external Blu-ray drive is compatible with various devices and can be used with ease. For Windows, it is recommended to use PowerDVD/AnyDVD as the Blu-ray player software, while for MAC OS, it is recommended to use MAC Blu-ray Player. The player software is not included.

The drive features a fashionably portable design, with dimensions of 151mm*146mm*18mm and a polished metal chrome finish that gives it a premium appearance. The premium material features scratch-proof and durability, which can extend the drive's lifespan.

The drive comes with an 18-month warranty and lifetime technical support. Should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to email the manufacturer via Amazon.com. They offer 24-hour customer service support.

Pros

  • High-speed interface for fast data transfer
  • Wide compatibility with various devices
  • Portable and durable design
  • Can read and burn Blu-ray discs, CDs, and DVDs
  • Comes with an 18-month warranty and lifetime technical support

Cons

  • – Player software not included

7. Asus Computer International Direct External Blu-Ray 6x Writer With Bdxl Support Sbw-06d2x-U (Black)

The Asus BW-16D1HT is a versatile and stylish Blu-ray writer that provides excellent burning quality for all your disc-burning needs. With its ATP technology, you can be assured of consistent and reliable performance every time you burn a disc. Additionally, the Disc Encryption II feature doubles the security of your data, ensuring that your information is safe and secure.

The Asus BW-16D1HT also features the convenient Drag and Burn function, which allows you to complete the burning process in just three simple steps. Whether you're burning a Blu-ray disc, DVD, or CD, the Asus BW-16D1HT makes the process fast and easy.

This Blu-ray writer also supports the BDXL format, which allows you to store up to 128GB of data on a single disc. This makes it ideal for backing up large files or archiving important data. And with its vertical and horizontal placement options, the Asus BW-16D1HT is flexible and space-saving, making it perfect for any home or office setup.

The Asus BW-16D1HT also boasts an architecture-inspired design that looks stylish and modern. Its sleek black finish and compact size make it a great addition to any workspace or entertainment center.

When it comes to write speed, the Asus BW-16D1HT is no slouch. It can write to BD-R discs at 6X speed, BD-R (TL/QL) at 4X speed, BD-RE at 2X speed, and BD-R (DL) at 4X speed. This means you can burn a full Blu-ray disc in just a few minutes, saving you time and hassle.

Pros

  • Consistent and reliable burning quality with ATP technology
  • Double the security with Disc Encryption II
  • Fast and easy burning with Drag and Burn feature
  • Supports BDXL format for storing large amounts of data
  • Flexible placement options for any setup
  • Stylish and modern design looks great in any workspace or entertainment center
  • Fast write speeds for efficient burning

8. Portable Guamar Blu-Ray Writer For Mac & Pc

The Guamar 5 in 1 external blu-ray drive has been completely redesigned to offer a more versatile and reliable performance. This drive comes with 1 SD Card Reader, 1 TF Card Reader, and 2 USB3.0 Port Hubs. Additionally, there's a Color-Changed Light on the top of the Surface that makes it look more attractive. It can read BD/CD/DVD and it can also be used as a TF&SD Card Reader, Hard Drive, USB flash drive, and more.

Apart from playing Blu-ray DVDs, this external Blu-ray DVD player allows you to copy pictures or videos from the SD card or TF card to your computer. You can also use USB devices such as USB flash drives, mouse, keyboard, hard drive, phone, etc. to transfer and charge. Please note that the SD card and TF card can't work at the same time, so you'll have to choose one of them. However, both of them can work well with the 2 USB3.0 ports at the same time.

The external Blu-ray burner supports 3 DVD drives/Blu-ray drives to work together. You can store data up to 128GB for 3D Blu-ray discs and choose the one you need. The 2 USB3.0 ports support 5V3A, compatible with USB C/USB3.0/USB2.0/USB1.1, just like a USB Hub. If there's insufficient voltage, you'll need to use the power cable that comes with the package to power it up.

This external Blu-ray writer is widely compatible with 3D Blu-ray Disc, Read Blu-Ray DVD CD & write on CD DVD BD. It supports Win98/ME/2000/XP, Vista, Win7, Win8, Win10/11 (you may need to download a plugin), Mac OS, Linux. Please install playback software before playing DVD disk. Be sure that the playback software on your computer must support Blu-ray format when playing Blu-ray discs. We strongly recommend using professional software to play this external Blu-ray reader, such as Mac Blu-ray Player, ideer Blu-ray Player, Blu-ray Player.

Guamar offers a 2-year support for this external Blu-ray burner drive, 60 days full refund, and a free storage case with each external Blu-ray drive. If you encounter any problem with the Guamar 5 in 1 external Blu-ray drive, please feel free to contact them, and they promise to resolve the issue within 24 hours. Any product quality problem encountered in the process of using this external Blu-ray drive (non-human destruction) will be provided with a free and quick replacement.

Pros

  • Comes with 1 SD Card Reader, 1 TF Card Reader, and 2 USB3.0 Port Hubs
  • The Color-Changed Light on the top of the Surface make it look more attractive
  • Can read BD/CD/DVD and it can also be used as a TF&SD Card Reader, Hard Drive, USB flash drive, and more
  • Supports 3 DVD drives/Blu-ray drives to work together
  • Widely compatible with 3D Blu-ray Disc, Read Blu-Ray DVD CD & write on CD DVD BD
  • Comes with a free storage case

Cons

  • – SD card and TF card can't work at the same time

9. Sea Tech Aluminum External Usb Blu-Ray Writer Super Drive For Apple Macbook Air, Pro, Imac

The Premium External Bly-Ray Writer Super-Muti Drive is an excellent choice for users who require a high-quality external drive that can read and write Blu-Ray discs. The drive is housed in a 1mm unibody aluminum casing, which not only looks great but also provides excellent durability and protection for the drive inside. The package includes both a C Cable and a regular USB cable for your convenience.

This drive features a USB 3.0 interface, which provides fast data transfer speeds and is also compatible with USB 2.0 ports. This makes it a versatile choice that can be used with a wide range of devices. It is also compatible with both Mac and Windows PCs, although additional Blu-ray software is required to use it with these operating systems.

Overall, the Premium External Bly-Ray Writer Super-Muti Drive is an excellent choice for users who need a high-quality external drive that can read and write Blu-Ray discs. Its durable aluminum casing, fast data transfer speeds, and compatibility with a wide range of devices make it a great investment for anyone who needs to work with Blu-Ray discs on a regular basis.

Pros

  • Durable 1mm unibody aluminum casing provides excellent protection for the drive inside
  • USB 3.0 interface provides fast data transfer speeds
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows PCs
  • Includes both C Cable and regular USB cable

Cons

  • – Additional Blu-ray software required to use with Mac and Windows PCs

10. Portable Powerhouse: Buffalo Mediastation Blu-Ray Drive

The Portable External Blu-ray Drive is a versatile device that plays and burns Blu-ray, DVD, and CD. It is compatible with PC, laptop, Windows, and Mac, and can be used by simply plugging it into your device. The drive measures 6 x 5 x 0.5 inches and weighs only 0.5 lbs, making it ultra-slim and compact. It writes Blu-ray discs up to 128 GB, which is perfect for high-capacity burning. The drive also supports BDXL, enabling it to write to high-capacity Blu-ray discs up to 128 GB. With US-based support and a 2-year manufacturer's warranty, you can trust that you will be taken care of if you encounter any issues with the device. The drive plays DVDs at near Blu-ray quality, thanks to DVD upscaling. It has a 6x read / 6x write speed for Blu-ray discs and an 8x read / 8x write speed for DVDs. The drive also supports M-Disc, allowing you to make temperature, light, and humidity-resistant recordings that can last up to 1000 years.

Whether you're a professional or a casual user, the Portable External Blu-ray Drive is an excellent choice for all your data storage and media needs. It is easy to use and provides high-quality performance, making it a great investment for anyone looking for a reliable external drive.

Pros

  • Plays and burns Blu-ray, DVD, and CD
  • Compatible with PC, laptop, Windows, and Mac
  • Ultra-slim and compact
  • Writes Blu-ray discs up to 128 GB
  • BDXL support
  • DVD upscaling
  • M-Disc support
  • US-based support
  • 2-year manufacturer's warranty

Best External Blu Ray Writer FAQs

Are there any recommended brands or models of external blu ray writers for high-quality disc burning?

Yes, there are several recommended brands and models of external blu ray writers for high-quality disc burning. One of the most popular brands is LG, which offers a range of external blu ray writers at different price points. The LG WH16NS40 is a particularly popular model, known for its fast write speeds and reliable performance. Another well-regarded brand is Pioneer, which offers a range of external blu ray writers for both Mac and PC users. The Pioneer BDR-XD07UHD is a popular model, offering both 4K and HDR support. Other recommended brands include ASUS, Samsung, and Sony. When choosing an external blu ray writer, it is important to consider factors such as write speed, compatibility with your computer or device, and overall reliability. It may also be helpful to read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.

Can an external blu ray writer be used with both Mac and PC computers?

Yes, an external Blu-ray writer can be used with both Mac and PC computers. Most external Blu-ray writers come with a USB or Thunderbolt connection, which can be plugged into any computer with a compatible port. However, it is important to check the compatibility of the Blu-ray writer with the operating system of the computer. Some Blu-ray writers may only work with specific operating systems, such as Windows or macOS. It is also important to check the system requirements of the Blu-ray writer, as some may require more processing power or memory than others. Additionally, the software used for playing or burning Blu-ray discs may also have different requirements for Mac and PC computers. Overall, it is possible to use an external Blu-ray writer with both Mac and PC computers, but it is important to check compatibility and system requirements before making a purchase.

What are the advantages of using an external blu ray writer?

Using an external Blu-ray writer has several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to enjoy high-quality video and audio content in the form of Blu-ray discs. This means that you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows in stunning high-definition quality, with crystal-clear audio and vivid colors. Additionally, an external Blu-ray writer is also useful for backing up important data, such as documents, photos, and videos. With a large storage capacity of up to 50 GB, you can easily store all your important files on a single disc. Another advantage of using an external Blu-ray writer is that it is portable and easy to use. You can connect it to your laptop or desktop computer via USB, and start burning discs instantly. This makes it ideal for people who need to work on the go, such as business travelers or students. Overall, an external Blu-ray writer is a versatile and convenient tool that offers high-quality video and audio playback, data backup, and portability.

What are the key features to look for when choosing an external blu ray writer?

When choosing an external Blu-ray writer, there are a few key features that you should consider in order to ensure that you are getting the best possible device for your needs. Firstly, you should look for a writer that supports the type of discs that you plan to use, whether that is single or dual-layer discs, rewritable discs, or other formats.

Another important factor to consider is the speed of the writer, which can vary widely depending on the model. If you plan to use the writer for frequent or large-scale disc burning, you may want to opt for a faster model.

Additionally, you should look for a writer that is compatible with your computer or other devices, whether that means choosing a USB or Thunderbolt connection or ensuring that the device is compatible with your operating system.

Other factors that may be important to consider include the size and weight of the device, the level of noise it produces, and any additional features or software that may be included with the writer. Ultimately, choosing the right external Blu-ray writer will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but by considering these key features, you can make an informed decision and select a device that will meet your needs.

What is an external blu ray writer and how does it work?

An external Blu-ray writer is an optical disc drive that is used to write or burn data on Blu-ray discs. It is an external device that connects to a computer or laptop via USB, Thunderbolt, or other similar interface. External Blu-ray writers are primarily used for storing large amounts of data, such as high-definition videos, images, and other multimedia files. They can also be used for backing up important data or creating Blu-ray movie discs.

The external Blu-ray writer works by using a laser to burn data onto the surface of a blank Blu-ray disc. The laser heats up the disc's surface, creating a series of pits and bumps that represent the data being written. Once the data is written, it can be read back by a Blu-ray player or drive.

In addition to writing data, external Blu-ray writers can also read data from Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and CDs. They are compatible with various operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux. External Blu-ray writers come in different sizes and shapes, and they may offer different writing and reading speeds. They are a useful tool for anyone who needs to store and share large amounts of data.

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