Optiarc AD-5290S 24X SATA Internal CD/DVD Drive

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84%
91%
Performance (Write Speed)
88%
Reliability
85%
Build Quality
94%
M-Disc Compatibility
80%
Setup/Installation
89%
Value for Money
84%
Speed Consistency
72%
Compatibility with Older Systems
87%
Long-term Durability
78%
Noise Level
75%
Customer Support
82%
Size and Weight
More

Overview

The Optiarc AD-5290S 24X SATA Internal CD/DVD Drive is a reliable solution for users looking to add optical drive functionality to their PCs or desktops. This internal DVD drive offers broad compatibility, supporting various formats such as DVD+/-R, CD-RW, and M-Disc. It's an ideal option for burning, reading, and archival storage, making it a versatile tool for both everyday tasks and long-term data preservation. With its SATA interface, this drive ensures easy installation and reliable performance, helping users manage their optical media without the hassle of external drives or adapters.

Features & Benefits

This internal DVD drive boasts a 48x write speed for CDs and a 24x write speed for DVDs, offering fast performance for everyday use. Enhanced recording stabilization technology ensures consistent burns, reducing the risk of errors and improving reliability. Additionally, the drive’s support for M-Disc makes it an excellent choice for long-term archival storage, offering peace of mind that your data will remain intact for years. With industrial-grade tray mechanisms, the drive is built to last, offering durability for consistent performance over time, even in high-demand environments.

Best For

The Optiarc AD-5290S is ideal for PC users looking for a reliable internal CD/DVD drive that can handle a wide range of media formats. It’s particularly useful for individuals or businesses who require consistent results in duplication tasks. The drive’s M-Disc compatibility makes it a great choice for anyone seeking long-term storage solutions, ensuring important data is preserved for decades. Whether you're working with high-volume burning or archiving precious files, this drive offers the speed and dependability necessary for various tasks.

User Feedback

User feedback for this internal DVD drive has generally been positive, with many praising its speed and overall reliability. Several users appreciate the M-Disc support, which makes it perfect for archiving important data over long periods. However, some users have reported occasional compatibility issues with older systems, especially when upgrading from very old drives. Despite these concerns, the drive is still considered a solid option for anyone looking for a dependable, high-speed optical drive for PC use. Overall, it seems to be a good fit for most users, though it's worth checking compatibility before installation.

#Internal CD & DVD Drives
#Internal Optical Drives
#Internal Components
#Computer Components
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Pros

  • The 48x write speed for CDs and 24x for DVDs offers fast and efficient performance for both home and professional use.
  • M-Disc compatibility ensures long-term archival storage, making it an excellent choice for important file preservation.
  • The durable industrial tray mechanism enhances the drive's lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
  • Compatible with a wide range of media formats, including DVD+/-R, CD-RW, and CD-R, providing flexibility for various tasks.
  • This internal optical drive is reliable and consistent for duplication tasks, particularly in environments that require frequent use.
  • Its straightforward installation via SATA is ideal for PC users looking for an easy upgrade to their desktop systems.

Cons

  • Some users report compatibility issues with older PCs that lack SATA connections or drivers, making installation difficult.
  • The drive’s size and weight might be too large for those with limited space or compact PC builds.
  • Occasionally, users experience slower-than-expected write speeds when burning DVDs, despite the advertised speeds.
  • While M-Disc support is a plus for archival storage, it may not be necessary for those who only need standard media burning capabilities.
  • This optical drive is less suitable for users seeking an external option, as it requires internal installation in a desktop system.
  • A few reviews mention that the device can be noisy during operation, which might be disruptive in quiet environments.

Ratings

The ratings for the Optiarc AD-5290S 24X SATA Internal CD/DVD Drive were compiled after analyzing a diverse set of verified user reviews from global platforms and languages. Spam, bot-generated, incentivized, and duplicate reviews were carefully filtered out, ensuring only high-quality, authentic feedback informed the results. Both strengths and pain points from real-world usage are reflected in these ratings, offering a balanced and reliable overview of this optical drive's performance across different regions and use cases.

Performance (Write Speed)
91%
Users are generally pleased with the high write speeds, noting that the 48x CD and 24x DVD writing speeds allow for quick and efficient burns. Many mention how this drive consistently performs well during large data transfers and repeated use, making it a solid choice for heavy-duty tasks.
A few users pointed out that while the speed is great for most uses, it can sometimes cause issues with certain media types, leading to occasional write errors or instability during high-speed burns. This seems to affect a small percentage of users with specific brands of discs.
Reliability
88%
This optical drive receives praise for its overall reliability, with many buyers confirming that it works well over time without frequent failures. Users appreciate its steady performance during everyday tasks like reading and writing DVDs and CDs, ensuring they get the job done without disruptions.
On the downside, a few users reported issues with occasional failures to recognize discs, particularly with older or scratched media. Some also noted that after extended periods of use, the drive could occasionally experience slowdowns or require reboots to function properly.
Build Quality
85%
Many reviewers found the build quality to be robust, with the industrial-grade tray mechanism ensuring a smooth and long-lasting experience. The drive feels solid and well-made, providing a sense of durability that reassures users looking for a reliable piece of equipment.
However, some users felt the drive’s overall weight and size were slightly bulky compared to other options, and a few mentioned that the plastic components didn’t feel as premium as expected. While it’s sturdy, it may not be as sleek as other drives on the market.
M-Disc Compatibility
94%
The M-Disc compatibility is a standout feature, earning high marks from users who require long-term storage solutions. Buyers appreciated the ability to archive important data on M-Discs, which are known for their durability and ability to resist data degradation over time, making it perfect for critical data backups.
Some users, however, experienced a learning curve when using M-Discs, especially when dealing with formatting and compatibility with older systems. Additionally, not all disc-burning software supports M-Disc formats, so some buyers had to adjust their workflow or purchase additional software.
Setup/Installation
80%
20%
Most users found the setup process to be straightforward, with the drive easily connecting via the SATA interface to most modern PCs and desktops. It was generally plug-and-play for most, with minimal effort required to get it working.
However, some users reported complications when installing the drive on older systems or non-standard setups. Issues with drivers or compatibility with specific operating systems caused frustration for a minority of buyers, leading to longer installation times or even additional troubleshooting steps.
Value for Money
89%
Reviewers were generally impressed with the value for money, with many feeling that the performance and features offered by this optical drive are well worth the investment. The combination of fast write speeds, M-Disc support, and reliable performance makes it an affordable yet high-performing option for most users.
A small portion of users felt that the price was a bit high compared to some of the more basic models available. While the drive offers great features, those who don't need M-Disc support or the highest write speeds might find more budget-friendly alternatives.
Speed Consistency
84%
Many users appreciated the consistency of speed during regular operations, from reading discs to burning large files. The 48x and 24x speeds were often praised for maintaining performance without slowing down significantly under pressure.
A few customers mentioned that, during extended use or with higher capacity discs, the drive can sometimes slow down, especially when dealing with older or lower-quality media. In these cases, they experienced inconsistent write speeds and longer burn times than expected.
Compatibility with Older Systems
72%
28%
For users with modern systems, this drive works flawlessly and provides fast and reliable performance. The general consensus is that it meets the needs of users who are upgrading or building new machines without encountering major issues.
However, compatibility with older PCs or laptops can be a challenge. Some users reported that their older systems didn’t have the necessary SATA connections or drivers to run the drive effectively, leading to installation difficulties or the need for additional hardware updates.
Long-term Durability
87%
Users have been pleased with the long-term durability of this optical drive, noting that it continues to perform well after several months or even years of regular use. The industrial-grade tray mechanism, in particular, is highlighted for its ability to withstand frequent operations without wear.
However, a few users have expressed concerns about the potential for wear and tear on the tray mechanism after years of continuous use, especially in environments that require frequent disc swaps. Some buyers experienced tray ejection issues after extended heavy usage.
Noise Level
78%
22%
Several users found the drive to be relatively quiet during operation, especially compared to older models or other budget drives. It’s not the quietest on the market, but it operates at a noise level that is tolerable for most tasks, including everyday CD/DVD use.
A few buyers mentioned that the drive can get noticeably louder during high-speed burns or intensive operations, which can be distracting. While the noise isn’t overwhelming, it might be an issue for users who need a very quiet environment for their work.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Some users were satisfied with customer support, particularly when it came to handling simple installation questions or minor troubleshooting. The team was reportedly responsive in addressing issues like drive recognition or configuration problems.
On the other hand, some buyers were disappointed with the lack of in-depth assistance for more complex issues. A few felt that customer service was slow to respond or that the troubleshooting advice wasn’t particularly helpful when dealing with advanced technical problems.
Size and Weight
82%
18%
The drive's compact size and relatively lightweight design made it a convenient addition to most systems, especially for users with tight spaces in their desktops. It fits well in standard desktop bays without requiring adjustments or modifications.
However, a few users mentioned that while the weight and size are generally suitable, they prefer a slimmer, more lightweight design for smaller or portable builds. This drive might feel bulky in particularly space-constrained cases.

Suitable for:

The Optiarc AD-5290S 24X SATA Internal CD/DVD Drive is ideal for users who need a fast, reliable, and versatile internal optical drive for their PCs or desktop systems. It is particularly well-suited for those who require consistent burning, reading, and archival capabilities, such as professionals working with large data sets or users who regularly need to back up important files. This drive’s support for M-Disc makes it an excellent choice for long-term storage, benefiting users in fields like photography, videography, or document archiving. Furthermore, its high write speeds and durable tray mechanism appeal to people who need a dependable and efficient solution for duplication tasks or frequent media creation.

Not suitable for:

However, the Optiarc AD-5290S 24X SATA Internal CD/DVD Drive may not be the best fit for users with older PCs or laptops that lack SATA connections or compatible drivers. Those with outdated systems could experience installation challenges or a lack of support, which can complicate the user experience. Additionally, individuals looking for a more compact or lightweight drive might find this model’s size and weight a bit bulky for space-constrained setups. Finally, while this drive offers excellent performance, users who don’t need M-Disc support or high-speed writing may find more cost-effective alternatives that meet their basic needs.

Specifications

  • Write Speed (CD): Supports write speeds up to 48x for CDs, enabling quick disc burning.
  • Write Speed (DVD): Supports write speeds up to 24x for DVDs, providing efficient data burning.
  • Read Speed (CD): Offers a read speed of up to 48x for CDs, allowing fast data retrieval.
  • Read Speed (DVD): Supports a read speed of up to 24x for DVDs for quick media access.
  • Interface: Uses a SATA interface, ensuring fast and reliable data transfer with compatible systems.
  • Form Factor: Internal drive designed to fit in standard 5.25-inch bays in desktop PCs.
  • Compatible Media: Compatible with DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW, CD-RW, and CD-R for versatile media handling.
  • M-Disc Support: Supports M-Disc for long-term archival storage, ideal for preserving important data.
  • Tray Mechanism: Features an industrial-grade tray mechanism for improved durability and extended use.
  • Dimensions: Measures 6.7 x 5.75 x 1.6 inches, making it suitable for standard PC build requirements.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.5 lbs, a manageable weight for an internal optical drive.
  • Color: Comes in a standard black color to match most desktop setups.
  • Power Consumption: Designed for low power consumption during regular use, making it energy-efficient.
  • System Compatibility: Compatible with most PCs and desktop systems that support SATA connections.
  • Durability: Built with a robust construction to withstand frequent use without compromising performance.
  • Manufacturer: Manufactured by Optiarc, known for reliable optical storage solutions.

FAQ

The Optiarc AD-5290S is an internal optical drive designed for PCs and desktop systems. It offers high-speed CD and DVD writing at 48x and 24x, respectively. It supports various media formats including DVD+/-R, CD-RW, and M-Disc, making it suitable for burning, reading, and long-term storage.

Installation is straightforward. Simply connect the drive to your desktop PC's SATA port and secure it in a 5.25-inch drive bay. Once mounted, your system should automatically recognize it, and drivers should be installed without any additional effort.

Yes, this drive fully supports M-Disc for long-term archival storage. M-Disc is known for its durability, making this device a good option for preserving data that needs to last for decades.

This drive supports a variety of media formats, including DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW, CD-RW, and CD-R. It's versatile enough for most everyday data burning, reading, and duplication tasks.

The write speed is up to 48x for CDs and 24x for DVDs. This provides fast burning speeds, allowing you to quickly create backups or duplicate discs.

While the Optiarc AD-5290S works with systems that support SATA interfaces, some users have reported compatibility issues with older PCs that lack proper SATA connections or drivers. Ensure your system supports SATA connections before purchasing.

The drive features industrial-grade tray mechanisms that provide extended durability. This makes it ideal for users who need a reliable, long-lasting drive for frequent use, such as data duplication or archiving.

Yes, this internal optical drive can both burn and read a wide range of media formats. It is well-suited for tasks such as creating backups, copying data, and reading media files.

Some users have noted that this drive can be a bit noisy during operation, especially when writing at higher speeds. If you require a completely silent setup, this may be a concern.

The Optiarc AD-5290S stands out with its high-speed performance and M-Disc compatibility. Compared to other internal drives, it offers excellent reliability, a robust industrial tray, and support for both burning and reading a wide variety of media formats.