Overview

The Cloudtale Blu-Ray External 3D Drive is a versatile and portable device designed for reading and writing Blu-ray discs. Offering compatibility across multiple platforms, this external drive supports Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Equipped with both USB 3.0 and Type-C connectivity, it ensures fast data transfer without compromising on performance. Its lightweight aluminum design makes it an ideal solution for users seeking a reliable Blu-ray drive that is easy to carry on the go.

Features & Benefits

This external Blu-ray player boasts an impressive range of features. It supports 3D Blu-ray playback and writing, making it an excellent choice for high-definition media enthusiasts. With a maximum write speed of 24x and a read speed of up to 8x, it offers fast and efficient performance. The USB-powered functionality eliminates the need for an external power source, adding to its portability. Furthermore, its broad compatibility with both laptops and desktops makes it suitable for a variety of devices.

Best For

The external Blu-ray drive is perfect for users who need reliable media playback or burning. Its compact size and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for travelers and mobile users who require a portable solution. It also works well for those with older systems that lack built-in Blu-ray drives, such as Windows XP or macOS machines. If you're looking for a versatile, high-performance Blu-ray drive for both reading and writing, this product fits the bill.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the Cloudtale Blu-Ray External 3D Drive for its fast data transfer and user-friendly operation. Its portability and slim profile have earned praise, especially among those who need a compact drive for on-the-go use. However, there have been some complaints about compatibility issues with certain software, causing frustration for a few users. Overall, the feedback highlights its value for both personal and professional use, though some improvements in software compatibility could enhance the experience.

Pros

  • This portable Blu-ray drive offers fast data transfer with USB 3.0 and Type-C connectivity.
  • It is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for travel or mobile use.
  • USB-powered functionality eliminates the need for an external power supply, adding to its convenience.
  • The drive supports 3D Blu-ray playback and writing, making it a great choice for high-definition media.
  • It works with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Users appreciate the sleek aluminum design, which ensures durability without adding bulk.

Cons

  • Some users report compatibility issues with certain software or operating systems.
  • The read speed of 8x may feel slow for users working with large files or needing faster performance.
  • It may not be the best option for users who require more robust software for Blu-ray burning or playback.
  • The device's compact design, while portable, could be prone to wear and tear with heavy use.
  • Users with older hardware may experience difficulties with connecting the device if USB 3.0 or Type-C is not supported.
  • A few users noted that it can occasionally be slow when burning multiple Blu-rays in succession.

Ratings

The ratings for the Cloudtale Blu-Ray External 3D Drive were compiled by RR-AI after analyzing verified user feedback from multiple countries and platforms, filtering out low-quality, spam, and incentivized reviews. The scores reflect both the strengths and weaknesses of this external Blu-ray drive, providing a balanced view from real users. Insights were gathered across various languages, offering a broad perspective on its performance, design, and usability.

Performance
85%
Users appreciate the fast read and write speeds of this Blu-ray drive, which make it ideal for both media playback and burning Blu-ray discs. The drive handles high-definition content smoothly, and the 24x write speed ensures efficient data transfer for large files.
Some users mention that the drive occasionally struggles with certain 3D Blu-ray content, leading to buffering or occasional playback issues. A few also note that the maximum read speed of 8x can feel slower than expected for quick access to files.
Build Quality
88%
The slim, aluminum design of the external drive is both lightweight and durable. Its sleek build ensures easy transport and gives it a premium feel, which many users find attractive for both personal and professional use.
While the design is generally well-regarded, a few users report that the aluminum can feel a bit fragile, especially when handled roughly. Some also point out that the drive is prone to showing fingerprints, which can affect its appearance over time.
Portability
90%
The compact size and lightweight build make this external Blu-ray drive an excellent choice for those who need a portable solution. It easily fits into most laptop bags or travel cases, making it convenient for travelers or remote workers.
A small number of users have mentioned that the drive’s portability comes at the cost of having a slightly flimsy feel when not in use. Some also noted that the thin design could lead to discomfort when used for extended periods without a stable surface.
Ease of Use
80%
20%
The setup process is straightforward, and the device requires no external power source, making it incredibly easy to use. Plug-and-play functionality on most systems ensures users can quickly start using the drive for their media tasks.
A few users experienced compatibility issues when trying to use the drive with older operating systems or certain software. These occasional glitches with setup or recognition can cause some frustration, particularly for non-tech-savvy users.
Compatibility with Devices
87%
This Blu-ray drive is compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops and desktops across multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, and Linux). Many users appreciate the flexibility it offers, especially for those with older computers without built-in Blu-ray drives.
Some users found that the drive struggles with specific hardware combinations or less common OS versions, which may cause issues with recognition or functionality. These compatibility problems are particularly notable on some Linux distributions and older Windows setups.
Speed (Read/Write)
82%
18%
The drive offers solid read and write speeds, especially considering its compact form factor. The 24x write speed is suitable for most media tasks, allowing users to burn high-definition movies and files with relative speed.
A number of users found the read speed to be somewhat underwhelming, with the 8x maximum speed feeling slow when accessing larger files or seeking faster performance. Some wished for higher speeds to meet more demanding tasks.
Power Consumption
94%
One of the standout features is its USB-powered functionality. This eliminates the need for an external power adapter, which is especially appreciated by users who need a portable, hassle-free solution while traveling or working remotely.
Although the USB-powered aspect is generally praised, a small minority of users have reported that the drive occasionally experiences power-related issues when connected to lower-power USB ports, leading to inconsistent performance.
Software Support
70%
30%
The Blu-ray drive is compatible with a variety of software, making it useful for both simple file transfers and more advanced Blu-ray burning tasks. Many users find that it integrates well with popular media players and burning software.
However, some users found that the included software is limited, and certain advanced features require third-party programs. This lack of comprehensive, included software for Blu-ray burning and playback can be a turn-off for some users.
Price vs. Features
90%
Given its robust features, including 3D Blu-ray playback, fast write speeds, and broad OS compatibility, this external Blu-ray drive provides excellent value for the price. Many users feel they are getting a high-quality device at a reasonable cost.
While the price is generally considered fair, some buyers noted that similar drives can be found at lower prices without some of the advanced features. In some cases, buyers may find other options that meet their needs for less money.
Design & Aesthetics
85%
The sleek, modern design of this Blu-ray drive adds a touch of elegance to any desktop or workspace. The slim profile and aluminum build contribute to its appealing aesthetics, which many users appreciate.
However, a few users mentioned that the minimalistic design, while attractive, can sometimes make the drive feel less robust. Some also find the lack of design variety (such as color options) limiting compared to other drives on the market.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Customers report that support is responsive and usually quick to resolve basic technical issues, offering useful guidance for setup and troubleshooting. Many users find the email support team to be friendly and willing to help.
On the downside, some users have pointed out that customer support can be difficult to reach during peak times, and response times may be slower than expected. A few also mentioned that follow-up support on more complex issues could be improved.
Reliability
83%
This Blu-ray drive has proven to be reliable over time for most users. It consistently delivers good performance for everyday use, whether for watching movies or burning high-quality discs. Many users report no major issues after extended usage.
Despite its overall reliability, some users have experienced occasional hiccups in performance, especially when using the drive on older systems or with certain media types. A few users also encountered problems with reading discs after prolonged use.

Suitable for:

The Cloudtale Blu-Ray External 3D Drive is ideal for users who need a reliable, portable optical drive for reading and writing Blu-ray discs. It's especially suited for those with older computers or laptops lacking built-in Blu-ray drives, such as students or professionals working on legacy systems. The device’s USB-powered design and compact, lightweight form make it an excellent choice for travelers who require a portable solution for media playback or burning. Users who frequently work with high-definition content, including 3D Blu-rays, will appreciate the fast writing speeds and ease of use, making this drive a valuable tool for content creators, movie enthusiasts, and those handling large media files regularly.

Not suitable for:

This Blu-ray drive may not be the best fit for users requiring extremely high-speed performance for large-scale, professional media workflows. While it offers solid speeds, the 8x read speed may feel slow for users needing faster data transfer, such as video editors or those working with large files in a time-sensitive environment. Additionally, individuals with specific software or system configurations may encounter compatibility issues, particularly with older OS versions or certain software suites. Those seeking a more robust or feature-packed software package for Blu-ray burning or playback might find the included options insufficient for their needs.

Specifications

  • Brand: Cloudtale is the manufacturer of this external Blu-ray drive.
  • Product Type: This is an external Blu-ray drive designed for reading and writing Blu-ray discs.
  • Interface: The device connects via USB 3.0 and Type-C ports for fast data transfer.
  • Write Speed: The drive offers a maximum write speed of 24x for Blu-ray discs.
  • Read Speed: The drive provides a maximum read speed of 8x for Blu-ray discs.
  • Power Source: The Blu-ray drive is powered via USB, requiring no external power adapter.
  • Operating System Compatibility: It is compatible with Windows XP/7/8/10, macOS, and Linux systems.
  • Design: The device features a slim and portable aluminum design for easy transport.
  • Dimensions: The external Blu-ray drive measures 5.15 x 5.59 x 0.67 inches.
  • Weight: The drive weighs 12.8 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Special Features: It supports 3D Blu-ray playback and writing for high-definition content.
  • Material: The drive is built with an aluminum casing for durability and heat dissipation.
  • USB Connectivity: This Blu-ray drive supports both USB 3.0 and Type-C for versatile connectivity.
  • Portability: Its compact size and lightweight build make it ideal for travel and mobile use.
  • Compatibility with Devices: It is compatible with both laptops and desktops, offering flexibility for various setups.
  • Storage Media: This drive supports Blu-ray, DVD, and CD discs for both reading and writing.
  • First Available: The device was first made available on August 23, 2019.
  • Special Software: Additional software may be required for full Blu-ray playback or burning functionality.
  • Best Sellers Rank: It ranks #169 in the External Blu-ray Drives category on popular marketplaces.

FAQ

The Cloudtale Blu-Ray External 3D Drive stands out due to its support for 3D Blu-ray playback and writing, making it an excellent choice for high-definition media. It’s also USB-powered, meaning you don’t need an external power supply, which adds to its convenience and portability.

Setting up the external Blu-ray drive is simple. Just plug it into a USB 3.0 or Type-C port on your laptop or desktop, and the system should automatically detect it. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, so you don’t need additional software for basic operation.

Yes, this device supports both 3D Blu-ray playback and writing, allowing you to create and enjoy high-definition 3D content. However, you’ll need a compatible 3D player or display to fully experience the 3D effects.

Yes, the Cloudtale Blu-Ray External 3D Drive is compatible with Mac systems, including macOS 10.7 and later. Simply plug it into a USB 3.0 or Type-C port, and you should be able to use it for both playback and burning Blu-ray discs.

Yes, the Blu-ray drive is compatible with Linux systems. However, you may need to install additional software, like VLC or other Blu-ray player applications, to enjoy playback, as not all Linux distributions natively support Blu-ray content.

This external Blu-ray drive offers fast write speeds of up to 24x and read speeds of up to 8x. While the read speed might feel a bit slower for some, the write speed ensures quick burning of Blu-ray discs for media storage or backup.

No, the drive is USB-powered, meaning it draws all the power it needs directly from your computer’s USB port. This eliminates the need for an additional power adapter, making it more portable and easier to use on the go.

The Cloudtale Blu-Ray External 3D Drive is designed with a sleek and durable aluminum casing, which provides a good level of protection against everyday wear and tear. While it's lightweight and compact, it’s still sturdy enough to be a reliable companion for travel, though some users recommend storing it in a padded case for added protection.

If you're using an older system without a USB 3.0 or Type-C port, you might experience issues with compatibility. In this case, using a USB-to-USB 3.0 adapter or upgrading your system might be necessary to fully utilize the drive’s capabilities.

Some users have reported occasional compatibility issues with certain software, particularly older or less common applications for Blu-ray burning or playback. It's a good idea to ensure you have the latest software updates or try alternative programs like VLC for playback.