Overview

The Umaniy External CD/DVD Drive 8-in-1 is a compact and versatile solution for users who need to read, write, and back up data from CDs and DVDs. This external DVD drive offers a seamless experience with its plug-and-play functionality, making it ideal for users of various operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its lightweight design ensures portability, so it can be easily carried for travel or work. With the capability to handle multiple disc formats, it's a handy tool for anyone who still relies on physical media for media playback or data storage.

Features & Benefits

This external CD/DVD burner boasts fast USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity, ensuring quick data transfer speeds for burning and reading discs. It features multiple ports, including SD/TF card slots and USB-A and USB-C ports, allowing for a wide range of connectivity options. The device supports a variety of disc formats such as CD-RW, DVD-RW, and DVD-ROM, providing flexibility for different user needs. With its driver-free installation, setting up this drive is a hassle-free experience, making it suitable for both novice and experienced users.

Best For

This external DVD drive is perfect for users who need a reliable, portable solution for laptops or desktops that lack built-in drives. It’s especially useful for those who want to burn or back up data without the complexity of external storage devices. Ideal for traveling professionals or anyone who needs a compact solution, this drive is easy to carry in a bag or briefcase. Additionally, those looking for versatile connectivity options, including USB-C and SD card slots, will appreciate the drive's range of features.

User Feedback

Overall, users appreciate the Umaniy External CD/DVD Drive 8-in-1 for its ease of use and fast performance. Many users find that it works well for both media playback and file burning, particularly for those still using physical media. However, there are some minor complaints about compatibility with Windows 11 media players, with a few users mentioning issues with playback. Despite this, the drive's reliability and simplicity make it a solid choice for many looking for an affordable external drive.

Pros

  • This external DVD drive is easy to set up with a plug-and-play design that requires no additional drivers.
  • The compact and lightweight build makes it perfect for travelers and those needing portability.
  • Users appreciate the fast data transfer speeds thanks to USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity.
  • Multiple connectivity options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, enhance versatility across different devices.
  • It supports various disc formats like CD-RW, DVD-RW, and DVD-ROM, making it highly functional.
  • Works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac, allowing broad compatibility with different operating systems.

Cons

  • A few users reported compatibility issues with Windows 11, especially with media players.
  • The device’s build quality could be better for users expecting more rugged durability for frequent use.
  • Some reviewers noted that the drive’s speed might not be sufficient for handling very large files in professional settings.
  • The included software lacks advanced features, which may be disappointing for users seeking more control over disc management.
  • The 8-in-1 functionality may not fully meet the needs of those who require specialized or high-performance disc functions.
  • Although compact, the device’s design may feel a bit flimsy for users who prioritize robust hardware.

Ratings

After analyzing user feedback from multiple platforms and countries, the Umaniy External CD/DVD Drive 8-in-1 has received mostly positive reviews. The ratings reflect a variety of real-world experiences, highlighting both the device's strengths and some minor drawbacks. Our AI model filtered out any spam, off-topic, and incentivized feedback to ensure that only genuine, high-quality reviews contributed to the results. The product’s performance, portability, and ease of use are especially appreciated, while a few users reported issues with Windows 11 compatibility.

Performance
88%
Many users are impressed by the fast reading and writing speeds of this external DVD drive, especially when working with large files. The high-speed USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity ensure smooth data transfer, which is especially appreciated for those who need efficient performance in their daily tasks. Whether for media playback or file burning, it delivers reliable results.
Some users have expressed frustration with inconsistent performance when using certain older discs or when working with larger files. While generally fast, a few buyers found that the drive occasionally struggles with specific formats or requires multiple attempts to burn DVDs successfully, which may be a hassle for some.
Ease of Setup
92%
One of the standout features of this device is its plug-and-play setup, which users consistently praise for its simplicity. No need for extra drivers or software means that even those with minimal technical experience can start using it quickly. The easy installation process is a major plus for people who need a hassle-free solution for adding a CD/DVD drive to their setup.
A few users noted that while the device works seamlessly on most operating systems, there were occasional issues with specific versions of Windows 11. Some buyers reported minor complications during the installation process, especially when the system didn’t automatically recognize the drive, requiring manual driver installation.
Portability
90%
The lightweight and compact design of this external DVD drive makes it an excellent choice for frequent travelers or mobile workers. It’s easy to pack in a bag and take anywhere, without adding much bulk or weight. Users find it convenient to carry around, whether they're working from a café, traveling for business, or just need a portable solution for data management on the go.
While generally compact, some users mentioned that the drive’s size might be a bit larger than some other ultra-portable options on the market. For those who are looking for a nearly weightless solution for travel, this device might feel slightly bulkier, especially when packed alongside other tech accessories.
Value for Money
91%
The overall value for the price is one of the top-rated aspects of this drive. Users feel they’re getting multiple functions—burning, reading, and backup—along with good build quality and fast connectivity, all at an affordable price. Many buyers consider it a great investment for anyone who frequently needs a versatile, reliable external CD/DVD drive.
A few customers expressed concerns that while the device offers solid value, the price might feel a bit steep compared to basic external drives. For some, the added functionalities (like the SD/TF card reader) weren’t as useful, making them question whether they truly needed the extra features at this price point.
Build Quality
84%
Most users report that the drive has a sturdy feel with a solid construction, making it dependable for regular use. The smooth, sleek design fits well into a variety of workspaces, and it doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap. Users appreciate that it looks and feels premium despite its affordable price point.
However, some buyers pointed out that the plastic casing feels a bit lightweight and susceptible to scratches or damage. While functional, a few users feel that the build quality could be improved to provide a more robust, long-lasting experience, particularly if the device is frequently handled during travel.
Connectivity Options
86%
The variety of ports, including USB-A and USB-C connections, makes this device very versatile for a wide range of laptops and desktops. Users appreciate the added SD/TF card slots for extra convenience, allowing them to transfer data between devices without additional accessories. The dual USB-A and USB-C support is a plus for users with varying port requirements.
A few users wished the drive included more than just the standard cables provided, especially for those who need additional adapters for specific setups. There were occasional mentions of confusion when using older devices that only support USB-A, requiring users to find compatible cables separately.
Compatibility with Windows 11
62%
38%
On most systems, this drive functions as expected, and many users with Windows 10 or earlier report no issues. The device is plug-and-play, which means that it generally works well with older versions of Windows. When it does work, users have no complaints about compatibility.
A significant number of reviews highlighted compatibility issues with Windows 11. Users reported that, although the drive works on most systems, Windows 11 sometimes doesn’t automatically recognize it, requiring manual intervention. This inconsistency has led some buyers to feel frustrated and led to lower overall satisfaction for users running Windows 11.
Customer Support
76%
24%
Many users have found the customer support for this external drive to be responsive and willing to help with setup issues or troubleshooting. When issues arose, they found the support team to be polite and eager to resolve problems. The quick response times have been a positive aspect for many buyers.
However, there were a few reports that users had trouble reaching customer support in a timely manner. Some buyers experienced delays in getting responses or found the provided solutions to be somewhat generic, leading to frustration, especially when dealing with more technical issues.
Durability
78%
22%
The drive's overall durability is decent for the price, with users noting that it holds up well during normal use. The compact design is solid, and it can handle occasional bumps and knocks during travel without significant issues. Most buyers felt confident using it day-to-day without worrying about it breaking easily.
On the flip side, some users have pointed out concerns with the device’s long-term durability. A few customers have reported issues with the drive failing after several months of use, with problems such as overheating or read/write failures appearing over time, especially when used heavily for data transfers or media burning.
Disc Reading Speed
80%
20%
The drive delivers good reading speeds for most types of media, especially for regular tasks like accessing files and watching DVDs. Many users have reported that it provides a reliable and fast reading experience for both data discs and media playback, which suits most users' needs.
A few users were disappointed with the slower speeds when reading certain types of discs, especially older or scratched CDs. Some noted that while the reading speed is generally acceptable, it doesn’t always live up to expectations when it comes to media-heavy tasks or more demanding uses.
Software Installation
93%
Users rave about the simplicity of the installation process, as no additional software is required. It works seamlessly out of the box, making it perfect for those who don’t want to deal with complicated software setups. This ease of use stands out, especially for non-tech-savvy buyers.
Some buyers wished there were more software features or utilities included with the drive, such as disc-burning software or additional tools for media management. While the plug-and-play setup is convenient, a few users feel that more robust software options would enhance the overall experience.
Card Slot Functionality
85%
The SD/TF card slots are a valuable addition, allowing for easy file transfers between devices without the need for extra cables or adapters. This feature is especially appreciated by users who need to transfer data from their cameras, smartphones, or other devices frequently.
Some users have noted that the card reader can be a bit slow at times, particularly when transferring large files. A few buyers also mentioned compatibility issues with certain types of cards, which could be inconvenient for those who rely on the card slots for regular data management.

Suitable for:

The Umaniy External CD/DVD Drive 8-in-1 is ideal for users seeking a reliable, portable solution for data backup, media burning, and disc reading. Its plug-and-play setup ensures it’s easy to use, making it a good choice for individuals with limited technical knowledge, such as students or casual home users. Frequent travelers, like business professionals or remote workers, will also benefit from its lightweight, compact design, which fits easily into bags for on-the-go use. Additionally, those with older laptops or desktops that lack built-in drives will appreciate the versatile connectivity options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, ensuring compatibility across different devices and operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Not suitable for:

While this external DVD drive offers great versatility and portability, it may not be the best choice for users running Windows 11, as some have reported compatibility issues with the operating system. Users who need extremely fast data transfer speeds for large-scale projects, such as video editors or professionals working with heavy files, might find this drive’s read/write speeds limiting. Similarly, individuals who require a highly durable, robust build for frequent use in harsh environments may not find this device up to par, as some users have noted that the construction could be more rugged. Those expecting top-tier software tools for disc management might also be disappointed by the lack of additional features beyond basic functionality.

Specifications

  • Connectivity: Supports both USB 3.0 and USB-C for fast data transfer.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
  • Dimensions: Measures 5.91 x 5.91 x 0.79 inches, compact and portable.
  • Weight: Weighs just 10 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Writing Speed: Supports a maximum write speed of 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs.
  • Reading Speed: Maximum read speed of 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs.
  • Card Slots: Equipped with SD/TF card reader slots for easy file transfers.
  • Ports: Includes 2 USB-A ports (2.0/3.0) and 2 USB-C ports (5 Gbps).
  • Plug-and-Play: No drivers needed, providing a simple plug-and-play setup.
  • Disc Formats: Supports CD-RW, DVD-RW, and DVD-ROM formats for burning and reading.
  • Power Source: Powered through USB connection; no external power adapter required.
  • Data Backup: Supports efficient data backup alongside media playback and file burning.
  • Form Factor: Slim and compact form factor ideal for travel and storage.
  • USB Speed: USB-C ports offer high-speed data transfer up to 5 Gbps.
  • Use Cases: Ideal for users without built-in CD/DVD drives in their laptops or desktops.
  • Windows 11 Compatibility: Some users report occasional issues with Windows 11 media players.
  • Burning Capability: Supports reliable CD and DVD burning for data storage and media creation.
  • System Requirements: Requires a computer with a USB-A or USB-C port for connection.
  • Material: Built with durable plastic casing to withstand daily use.

FAQ

Setting up this external DVD drive is simple. Just plug it into your laptop or desktop via USB-A or USB-C, and it will automatically be recognized without needing any drivers. You can start using it right away for burning, reading, or backing up data.

Yes, this device is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. Whether you’re on a Windows laptop or a Macbook, you can use it without worrying about compatibility, making it a versatile option for a range of users.

Absolutely! This external CD/DVD drive supports both media playback and file burning. You can use it to watch DVDs, listen to CDs, or load other media onto your computer, making it an all-in-one solution for multimedia tasks.

The drive supports multiple disc formats, including CD-RW, DVD-RW, and DVD-ROM. This makes it a great choice for a variety of media storage needs, whether you’re burning data, creating music CDs, or backing up files.

This device offers fast data transfer speeds with both USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity. It supports up to 24x CD write speed and 8x DVD write speed, so you can quickly burn and read large files, making it efficient for everyday use.

No, this external DVD drive is plug-and-play, which means it doesn’t require any additional software or drivers. Once connected, it will work seamlessly with your computer’s built-in software for disc burning and file management.

Yes, this drive is ideal for both laptops and desktops, especially those without built-in CD/DVD drives. Its portable and lightweight design makes it a perfect travel companion for users on the go or those who need an external option.

A few users have reported occasional compatibility issues with media players on Windows 11. While most functions work smoothly, you may need to troubleshoot or use alternative software if you encounter playback issues.

This drive is very portable due to its compact and lightweight design. It weighs just 10 ounces and has small dimensions, making it easy to carry around in a laptop bag or backpack, perfect for travelers or mobile workers.

Yes, the Umaniy External CD/DVD Drive 8-in-1 features built-in SD/TF card slots, allowing you to easily transfer files from memory cards. This added functionality makes it a versatile tool for photographers or anyone needing quick file transfers from external media.