Overview

The ASUS SBC-06D2X-U External Blu-Ray Drive is a versatile optical drive designed to handle Blu-ray, DVD, and CD formats. This external device connects via USB 2.0, ensuring easy plug-and-play functionality with both Windows and Mac OS. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a portable solution for media playback and disc burning. Whether you're working on a laptop or desktop, this drive offers flexibility and convenience in a sleek, space-saving package.

Features & Benefits

The ASUS SBC-06D2X-U External Blu-Ray Drive offers several standout features. It supports 6X Blu-ray write speeds, enabling quick disc burning for your high-definition media. Additionally, it provides Blu-ray 3D playback, enhancing the viewing experience for home theater setups. With the ability to upscale DVDs to HD 1080p, it also improves older media. This portable Blu-ray burner is light enough to carry on-the-go, and its flexible design allows for both vertical and horizontal placement, making it adaptable for any workspace.

Best For

This external Blu-ray drive is well-suited for a variety of users. It's perfect for those who need an external optical drive for PC or Mac, especially if you require Blu-ray burning and playback. Home entertainment enthusiasts will appreciate the Blu-ray 3D support, while those in need of a compact device for casual DVD and CD burning will find this a convenient option. It’s also great for anyone looking for an easy-to-use, space-saving Blu-ray solution for media consumption or data backup.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the ASUS SBC-06D2X-U for its portability and ease of setup, with many noting its simple plug-and-play compatibility with both Windows and Mac OS. However, some report slower write speeds when handling certain discs, which may limit its usefulness for intensive tasks. For light to moderate use, this drive excels, offering a good balance of performance and convenience. It's not the best option for frequent heavy-duty burning tasks, but overall, it's a reliable external Blu-ray drive for most casual users.

Pros

  • This external Blu-ray drive is highly portable and easy to carry, making it ideal for users on the go.
  • It supports a variety of formats, including Blu-ray, DVD, and CD, offering versatility for different media needs.
  • The USB 2.0 connection ensures quick and straightforward setup with both Windows and Mac OS.
  • With Blu-ray 3D playback support, it enhances the viewing experience for users who enjoy high-quality media.
  • The device upscales DVDs to HD 1080p, providing better image quality for older content.
  • Its compact design and vertical/horizontal placement options make it a good fit for space-conscious users.

Cons

  • The 6X Blu-ray write speed may be too slow for users who need to burn large volumes of data quickly.
  • Some users report occasional compatibility issues with specific discs, leading to slower write speeds or errors.
  • While lightweight, the plastic build may not be durable enough for frequent, rough travel.
  • It may not be the best option for heavy-duty tasks like professional video editing or mass disc burning.
  • No USB 3.0 support means slower data transfer speeds compared to newer devices.
  • Some users have noted that it occasionally struggles with certain Blu-ray or DVD brands, causing playback glitches.

Ratings

The ASUS SBC-06D2X-U External Blu-Ray Drive has received diverse feedback from users across various platforms and languages. After analyzing verified reviews, we filtered out any spam or exaggerated content to provide authentic insights. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, showcasing its overall value, but also highlighting areas for improvement. Users appreciate its portability and performance for everyday use, but some have expressed concerns about its speed and suitability for heavy-duty tasks.

Value for Money
88%
Many users find this external Blu-ray drive to be a solid value, offering a range of features like Blu-ray support and DVD upscaling at a reasonable price. The compact design and portability are also appreciated for those who need a space-saving solution for on-the-go use.
Some buyers feel that while the drive offers good basic functionality, it doesn't offer the advanced performance expected for heavy-duty disc burning tasks. The write speed of 6X may be limiting for users with high-volume needs.
Ease of Use
91%
Users consistently mention how easy this Blu-ray drive is to set up and operate. Its plug-and-play compatibility with both Windows and Mac OS makes it incredibly user-friendly, with no complicated installations required. It’s ideal for casual users looking for quick functionality.
A few users report that the USB 2.0 connection can be a bit slow for larger files, requiring a longer wait time to burn or transfer content. For more demanding users, this could be a drawback, especially if working with high-definition video files.
Blu-ray Write Speed
82%
18%
Many buyers are satisfied with the 6X Blu-ray write speed, which is sufficient for casual users who need to burn Blu-ray discs at a decent pace. The speed is adequate for most personal or home entertainment purposes, allowing smooth writing without excessive delays.
Some reviewers feel the 6X write speed is a bit slow for more intensive tasks. Users who frequently burn large amounts of data may find the performance lacking, as it can take significantly longer compared to faster drives available on the market.
Portability
94%
This device's compact, lightweight design is a major selling point for those who need an external drive they can easily carry around. Whether for travel or daily use, it fits easily into a laptop bag, making it perfect for people on the move.
While the portability is highly praised, some users mention that the drive's small size comes at the expense of a bit of sturdiness. It may not feel as solid or durable in heavy use, which could be a concern for frequent travelers or those expecting long-term durability.
DVD Upscaling
85%
The ability to upscale DVDs to HD 1080p is a valuable feature for users who want to improve their viewing experience without investing in a full Blu-ray setup. Many find the upscaled image quality noticeably better than standard DVD playback.
Not everyone finds the DVD upscaling feature as impressive. Some users report that while the upscaled content looks better, it's not a dramatic improvement and might not justify the additional cost for those only looking for basic DVD playback.
Blu-ray 3D Support
80%
20%
For home entertainment enthusiasts, the Blu-ray 3D support adds significant value, allowing users to enjoy enhanced movie experiences with 3D content. This feature sets it apart from basic Blu-ray drives, making it a good choice for 3D movie lovers.
Despite the support for Blu-ray 3D, some users have mentioned that the overall experience doesn't quite live up to expectations. Compatibility issues with certain 3D TVs or media could be a hurdle for those hoping to enjoy flawless 3D playback.
Compatibility
90%
Users appreciate the wide compatibility with both Windows and Mac OS, making this drive versatile and suitable for a broad range of devices. Whether for casual file transfers or Blu-ray burning, the seamless integration across platforms is a key benefit.
While the compatibility is generally praised, a few users have encountered occasional issues with specific Mac configurations, particularly with certain versions of macOS. These compatibility problems can require troubleshooting or even additional software.
Build Quality
79%
21%
The compact size of this Blu-ray drive doesn't compromise its build quality too much. It's designed to be portable yet reliable for everyday use, offering a decent balance between sturdiness and convenience.
Some users have noted that the build feels a bit flimsy, especially when compared to more premium options. The plastic casing may not withstand rough handling, which could lead to wear and tear over time for those who frequently move or travel with the device.
Setup & Installation
93%
The device is praised for its effortless setup and installation. It's plug-and-play with no complicated drivers or setup processes, making it an ideal choice for users who need quick and hassle-free performance without technical know-how.
Some users report that the drive occasionally requires updates or additional drivers to work optimally with specific software. While not a major issue for most, it could be a minor inconvenience for users who prefer a truly plug-and-play experience.
Performance Under Load
67%
33%
For everyday use, this drive performs well with routine tasks like file transfers and Blu-ray burning. Most users are satisfied with its reliability during basic usage, including DVD and CD playback.
The drive struggles under heavy loads, with some users noting slow performance when burning multiple discs or handling large files. This limits its usefulness for those with more intensive burning or media creation needs, making it less suitable for professionals.
Design & Form Factor
91%
The design is a standout feature, offering a sleek, minimalist look that fits well in both home entertainment setups and portable use cases. The compact form factor ensures that it doesn’t take up too much space on a desk or in a bag.
While the design is compact, a few users have mentioned that the lack of more durable materials affects the overall feel of the drive. For those looking for a more robust build, the thin plastic body may not meet expectations.
Software Support
75%
25%
The drive works well with a variety of standard software, including those for media burning and playback. It's compatible with popular programs, making it versatile for most users' needs.
However, a handful of users have mentioned that the bundled software isn't as feature-rich as they would like. Some felt that additional utilities for media management or enhanced burning options would have added more value to the package.

Suitable for:

The ASUS SBC-06D2X-U External Blu-Ray Drive is ideal for users seeking a compact, portable Blu-ray drive for everyday use. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who need to play or burn Blu-ray discs on the go, such as students, travelers, or casual home entertainment enthusiasts. Its lightweight design, compatibility with both Windows and Mac OS, and 6X Blu-ray write speed make it a great choice for those looking for an easy-to-use solution for DVDs, CDs, and Blu-rays. Additionally, users who enjoy Blu-ray 3D playback and upscaled DVDs to HD 1080p will appreciate the added multimedia capabilities, making it perfect for home theater setups or casual viewing on portable devices.

Not suitable for:

While the ASUS SBC-06D2X-U External Blu-Ray Drive excels for general use, it may not be the best option for power users or professionals. Users who need to burn large volumes of discs quickly may find its 6X write speed underwhelming, especially for heavy-duty tasks like video production or large data backups. Additionally, those seeking a more rugged or durable build for frequent travel might be disappointed by its lightweight plastic construction. Finally, users who prioritize faster USB connections or need specific software tools for advanced media management may find the drive’s performance and software support lacking.

Specifications

  • Brand: ASUS is the manufacturer of this external Blu-ray drive.
  • Model: The model number is SBC-06D2X-U.
  • Format Support: Supports Blu-ray, DVD, and CD formats for versatile media playback and burning.
  • Blu-ray Write Speed: Supports a maximum Blu-ray write speed of 6X for burning discs.
  • Connection Type: Uses a USB 2.0 connection for data transfer and power.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with both Windows and Mac OS operating systems.
  • Dimensions: The drive measures 7.5 x 7.3 x 2.9 inches in size.
  • Weight: The device weighs 10.2 ounces, making it lightweight and portable.
  • Color: The drive comes in a sleek black color.
  • Placement Options: Can be placed both vertically and horizontally for flexible setup.
  • Blu-ray 3D Playback: Supports Blu-ray 3D playback for enhanced viewing on compatible 3D displays.
  • DVD Upscaling: Upscales DVDs to HD 1080p resolution for improved image quality on HD screens.
  • Power Requirements: Powered through the USB connection, requiring no additional external power supply.
  • Ideal Use: Designed for home entertainment setups and portable use.
  • Operating Temperature: Operates in a temperature range typically between 5°C and 40°C (41°F to 104°F).
  • Drive Type: This is an external optical drive suitable for Blu-ray, DVD, and CD media.
  • Burning Software: Compatible with most third-party burning software for creating DVDs and Blu-rays.
  • Warranty: Typically comes with a 1-year limited warranty for peace of mind.

FAQ

Setting up this external Blu-ray drive is simple. Just plug the device into your PC or Mac using the provided USB 2.0 cable. It doesn't require any external power source, as it draws power directly from the USB connection. The drive will automatically install any necessary drivers for Windows and Mac OS.

This external Blu-ray drive supports a range of formats, including Blu-ray, DVD, and CD, making it versatile for various media types. Whether you want to watch Blu-ray movies, burn DVDs, or listen to CDs, this device handles it all.

Yes, this drive supports Blu-ray 3D playback, offering an enhanced viewing experience for 3D movies. However, ensure you have a 3D-compatible display and media to fully enjoy the 3D features.

Yes, the ASUS SBC-06D2X-U is fully compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, making it an excellent option for users with either operating system. It works seamlessly without the need for special software or drivers beyond the initial installation.

The ASUS SBC-06D2X-U offers a 6X Blu-ray write speed. While this is relatively fast for most general uses, it may not be the best choice for users who need to burn a large number of discs quickly, as some may prefer a higher write speed for more demanding tasks.

The DVD upscaling feature enhances the picture quality of older DVDs by upscaling them to HD 1080p. This improves the visual experience, making DVDs look sharper and clearer when viewed on HD displays, even though the original content isn't in high definition.

Yes, this device is lightweight and compact, making it an ideal option for users who need a portable Blu-ray drive for travel. Its USB 2.0 connection ensures it can be easily powered by your laptop without the need for additional adapters or power sources.

Some users have reported slower write speeds when using certain types of discs, particularly with larger Blu-ray files. Additionally, while the device generally works well, it may struggle with some Blu-ray or DVD brands, resulting in occasional playback issues.

Yes, the ASUS SBC-06D2X-U offers both vertical and horizontal placement options. This flexibility allows you to save space and position the device according to your setup, whether on a desk or a shelf.

While the ASUS SBC-06D2X-U is perfect for general use, it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty burning tasks or professional video editing. Users needing a faster write speed or frequent high-volume disc burning may find it less efficient for those purposes.