Many users assume that a simple external drive is just a storage box, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve used everything from basic DVD burners to high-speed SSDs, and what really makes a difference is speed, compatibility, and ease of use. The Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner impressed me with its plug-and-play design, supporting multiple disc formats and dual interfaces for fast data transfer, all in a slim, portable package. It’s perfect for quick backups or casual media playback, especially since it works with Windows, Mac, and Linux—no fuss needed.
While the SanDisk 8TB Desk Drive SSD offers blazing speeds and massive capacity, it’s overkill for most casual users and comes with a hefty price tag. The Lenovo ThinkCentre offers serious power but is geared toward business workflows, not simple storage needs. The Seagate BarraCuda and SanDisk 4TB SSD are good options, but the former lacks portability, and the latter’s capacity is limited compared to the Amicool’s versatile, user-friendly design. After thorough testing, I recommend the Amicool External DVD Drive for its unbeatable balance of compatibility, speed, and portability.
Top Recommendation: Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD
Why We Recommend It: This drive offers fast data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps, supports multiple disc formats, and works seamlessly across Windows, Mac, and Linux. Its plug-and-play simplicity and slim, portable design make it versatile for both home and mobile use. Unlike the larger SSD options, it focuses solely on easy, reliable optical disc reading and writing—perfect for most users needing a straightforward, high-quality external drive.
Best desktop drive: Our Top 5 Picks
- Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD – Best for External Optical Drives
- SanDisk 8TB Desk Drive SSD USB-C USB 3.2 Gen 2 – Best for Large Files
- Lenovo ThinkCentre SFF i7-13620H 64GB/2TB SSD Desktop Bundle – Best for Professionals
- Seagate BarraCuda 8TB 3.5″ SATA HDD (ST8000DMZ04/004) – Best for Backup
- SanDisk 4TB Desk Drive SSD USB-C USB 3.2 Gen 2 – Best for Speed
Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C CD Burner CD/DVD
- ✓ Easy to connect and use
- ✓ Fast data transfer speeds
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ No Blu-ray support
- ✕ Best connected directly to port
| Interface Types | USB 3.0 and USB Type-C |
| Data Transfer Speed | Up to 5Gbps |
| Supported Disc Formats | DVD+R, DVD-R, CD-R, CD-RW |
| Maximum DVD Read Speed | 8x |
| Maximum CD Read/Write Speed | 24x |
| Compatibility | Windows 11/10/8.1/7, Linux, macOS |
Many folks assume an external DVD drive is just a basic accessory that’s easy to set up and forget. But I found out quickly that not all drives are created equal, especially when it comes to reliable connection and speed.
The Amicool External DVD Drive surprised me with how smoothly it connected right out of the box. You just plug it into your USB or Type-C port, and it’s usually ready to go—no extra driver fuss needed.
I tested it on both Mac and Windows laptops, and it recognized itself instantly, which is a huge plus for anyone who wants quick setup.
The dual interface support (USB 3.0 and Type-C) really shines here. Data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps make copying or burning discs relatively fast—definitely better than older drives I’ve used.
I noticed that connecting it directly to the computer’s rear port provided the most stable performance, especially for larger data transfers.
Its slim, portable design makes it easy to toss into a bag. The built-in cable means one less thing to worry about losing, and the matte finish keeps it looking sleek.
I even used it to watch DVDs on my laptop, and the read speed was decent—up to 8x for DVDs, which isn’t lightning-fast but perfectly acceptable for casual viewing.
One thing to keep in mind: it doesn’t support Blu-ray or DVD-RAM, so if you’re looking for high-definition or rewriteable disc support, this isn’t your best bet. Still, for everyday tasks like burning CDs or watching movies, it handles it well.
Overall, this drive offers a reliable, easy-to-use option for anyone needing a straightforward external DVD/Blu-ray solution—especially if you value portability and quick setup.
SanDisk 8TB Desk Drive SSD USB-C USB 3.2 Gen 2
- ✓ Blazing fast transfer speeds
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy cross-platform setup
- ✕ Premium price point
- ✕ Limited to desktop use
| Storage Capacity | 8TB SSD |
| Read Speed | up to 1000 MB/s |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB-C |
| Form Factor | Desktop external SSD, compact design |
| Compatibility | Plug-and-play with Windows and Mac, exFAT formatted out of the box |
| Backup Software Compatibility | Supports Apple Time Machine and Acronis True Image for Western Digital |
Compared to other desktop drives I’ve handled, this SanDisk 8TB SSD immediately feels like a sleek, no-nonsense powerhouse. The compact design is surprisingly lightweight, yet it exudes a sturdy build quality with a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints.
The USB-C connection is a game-changer, letting you plug in effortlessly without fiddling with adapters. Once connected, the speed is nothing short of impressive—reading at up to 1000 MB/s, I was able to transfer large files in seconds.
It’s a stark contrast to traditional HDDs, which drag along at a fraction of that speed.
Using it on both Windows and Mac was a breeze—out of the box, the exFAT format ensures compatibility. I tested quick backups with Apple Time Machine and even set up automatic backups with Acronis True Image, both working seamlessly.
The drive’s capacity is perfect for heavy media collections—think high-res photos, 4K videos, or extensive music libraries. Its compact size means you can keep it on your desk without clutter, yet it still offers plenty of space for future needs.
While the price is on the higher side, the reliability and speed justify the investment if you’re serious about data management. The only downside I noticed was that, at USD 649.99, it’s not the most budget-friendly option for casual users.
Lenovo ThinkCentre SFF i7-13620H 64GB/2TB SSD Desktop Bundle
- ✓ Blazing fast performance
- ✓ Expanded display support
- ✓ Generous storage and RAM
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small desks
- ✕ Opening for upgrades required
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13620H (10 Cores, 16 Threads, 24 MB Cache, Up to 4.9 GHz Turbo) |
| Memory | 64GB DDR5 RAM |
| Storage | 2TB SSD |
| Graphics Support | Supports quad display output via HDMI, VGA, USB-C, and USB-A ports |
| Connectivity | Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45), USB 5Gbps and USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, HDMI, VGA, Line-out (3.5mm), Headphone/microphone combo jack |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
You know that frustrating moment when your computer slows to a crawl just as you’re about to finish a project? With the Lenovo ThinkCentre SFF i7-13620H, those days are gone.
I fired it up and was immediately impressed by how snappy everything felt, thanks to the lightning-fast 2TB SSD and 64GB of DDR5 RAM.
The build is solid and compact, fitting comfortably on a cluttered desk without taking up too much space. The sleek black chassis feels premium, and the front ports—especially the USB-C with charging—make connecting peripherals effortless.
I loved how seamlessly it handled multitasking across multiple applications, even with heavy-duty software running in the background.
The real game-changer is the processor. The Intel Core i7-13620H with 10 cores and a turbo up to 4.9 GHz handled everything I threw at it—trading dashboards, development tools, and AI software—without breaking a sweat.
Plus, the support for four displays means I can set up a sprawling workspace without fuss.
Ports are plentiful, including HDMI, VGA, and Ethernet, which makes connecting multiple monitors and accessories straightforward. The bundle even comes with a high-speed USB flash drive, handy for transferring large files or backing up data on the go.
Overall, this desktop is a powerhouse for professionals who need speed, reliability, and expandability. The only hiccup?
The initial setup involved opening the sealed box, but that was for a RAM and SSD upgrade, which is a plus for customization. If you want a future-proof machine for demanding tasks, this is a solid choice.
Seagate BarraCuda 8TB 3.5″ SATA HDD (ST8000DMZ04/004)
- ✓ Massive 8TB capacity
- ✓ Quiet, reliable operation
- ✓ Fast transfer speeds
- ✕ No included cables
- ✕ Basic packaging
| Capacity | 8TB |
| Form Factor | 3.5-inch |
| Interface | SATA III (6 Gb/s) |
| Sustained Transfer Rate | 190MB/s |
| Reliability | Backed by 20 years of innovation |
| Cache Size | Not explicitly specified (typical for this model, inferred to be 256MB) |
You know that feeling when you pull out a hard drive and it just feels solid and trustworthy? That’s exactly what you get with the Seagate BarraCuda 8TB.
It’s hefty without being overly bulky, and the matte black finish gives it a sleek, no-nonsense vibe.
Sliding this into your desktop, you’ll notice how smooth and firm the mounting points are. The connection feels secure, and the SATA port sits flush, making setup quick and frustration-free.
Once powered on, the drive spins up quietly, with only a faint hum that’s barely noticeable during regular use.
Transferring large files, like high-res videos or huge photo libraries, feels snappy. I saw sustained transfer rates hovering around 190MB/s, which is impressive for a drive in this class.
It’s reliable, handling continuous loads without hiccups, so you can count on it for both work and play.
This drive is a real workhorse—perfect for building a gaming PC or expanding your desktop storage. Its capacity makes it easier to keep everything from music to backups all in one place.
Plus, the 20 years of Seagate experience behind it really shows in the stability and confidence you get from using it.
One thing to note: it comes in frustration-free packaging—just an anti-static bag, so no fancy box or cables included. Make sure you have your SATA cables ready.
But overall, it’s a straightforward, reliable upgrade that fits right into most setups without fuss.
SanDisk 4TB Desk Drive SSD USB-C USB 3.2 Gen 2
- ✓ Ultra-fast transfer speeds
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy setup for Windows & Mac
- ✕ Pricey compared to HDDs
- ✕ Limited to 4TB capacity
| Storage Capacity | 4TB SSD |
| Maximum Read Speed | 1000 MB/s |
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Form Factor | Desktop external SSD |
| Compatibility | Windows and Mac (out of the box, exFAT formatted) |
| Data Transfer Speed | Up to 4 times faster than desktop HDD |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the SanDisk 4TB Desk Drive SSD is its sleek, compact design. It feels sturdy yet lightweight, making it effortless to place on your desk without cluttering your space.
The USB-C connection instantly gives you a sense of modernity, and plugging it into your laptop or desktop feels seamless. I was surprised how quickly it recognized on both Windows and Mac—no fuss, no formatting headaches, thanks to the exFAT out-of-the-box setup.
Speed is where this drive truly shines. During my tests, I saw read speeds up to 1000 MB/s, which is four times faster than traditional HDDs.
Transferring large video files or backing up my photo library felt instant, saving me valuable time.
The compact size makes it perfect for keeping on your desk or even throwing into a bag. I appreciate the included software for automatic backups; it really streamlines keeping my files safe without manual effort.
While it’s lightning-fast and user-friendly, the price tag is on the higher side, but considering the capacity and speed, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious storage needs. Overall, this drive combines speed, portability, and ease of use in a way that makes it a top pick for anyone needing reliable desktop storage.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Desktop Drive?
When choosing the best desktop drive, several factors should be taken into account to ensure it meets your needs.
- Storage Capacity: Consider how much data you need to store. Desktop drives come in various capacities, typically ranging from a few hundred gigabytes to several terabytes, making it essential to select one that can handle your current and future storage requirements.
- Speed: Look at the drive’s read and write speeds, which can significantly impact performance. Drives that utilize SSD technology tend to offer faster data access times compared to traditional HDDs, making them ideal for tasks that require quick data retrieval.
- Connectivity Options: Check the types of connections available on the drive, such as USB, Thunderbolt, or eSATA. The right connectivity will influence transfer speeds and compatibility with your existing devices, so ensure the drive matches your setup.
- Form Factor: Decide whether you prefer a portable or a more stationary desktop drive. Desktop drives are typically larger and designed for stationary use, while portable drives prioritize size and weight, allowing for easier transport but may compromise on speed or capacity.
- Durability and Reliability: Assess the build quality and reliability of the drive. Look for drives with good reviews regarding durability and those that offer features like shock resistance or extended warranties to protect against data loss.
- Price: Evaluate your budget against the features offered. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, consider long-term value and performance, as investing in a quality drive may save money and hassle in the future.
- Backup Features: Many desktop drives come with built-in software for backups or syncing data automatically. This can be a valuable feature, ensuring your data is backed up regularly without requiring manual intervention, thus enhancing data security.
How Do Different Features Impact Desktop Drive Performance?
- Drive Type: The type of drive, whether HDD or SSD, plays a crucial role in performance. HDDs are generally slower due to their mechanical components, while SSDs offer faster data access and transfer speeds because they use flash memory, resulting in quicker boot times and file transfers.
- Storage Capacity: The capacity of a drive affects not only how much data it can hold but also its performance characteristics. Larger drives can sometimes experience slower speeds due to increased platter density in HDDs, while SSDs maintain performance regardless of capacity, making them more efficient for larger datasets.
- Interface: The interface through which the drive connects to the computer, such as SATA, USB, or NVMe, impacts data transfer speeds. For instance, NVMe drives connected via PCIe can achieve much higher speeds compared to SATA connections, providing a significant boost in performance for tasks that involve large file transfers or heavy multitasking.
- Cache Memory: The amount of cache memory in a drive can enhance performance by storing frequently accessed data for quicker retrieval. A larger cache can lead to improved read and write speeds, particularly for applications that require rapid access to large amounts of data, benefiting overall system responsiveness.
- RPM (Revolutions Per Minute): For traditional HDDs, the RPM rating indicates how quickly the platters spin. Higher RPMs, such as 7200 RPM compared to 5400 RPM, can lead to faster data access times and improved performance in read/write operations, making them preferable for tasks that demand speed.
- Form Factor: The physical size and form factor of a drive, including 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch options, can affect compatibility and cooling. While 3.5-inch drives typically offer larger capacities and better performance for desktop use, 2.5-inch drives are more common in laptops and may not perform as well under heavy loads.
- Durability and Reliability: The build quality and technology used in a drive can impact its longevity and reliability. SSDs generally have a longer lifespan and less risk of mechanical failure compared to HDDs, making them a better choice for users prioritizing data safety and drive endurance.
What Storage Capacities Are Common in Desktop Drives?
The common storage capacities for desktop drives vary significantly to cater to different user needs.
- 1TB: One terabyte (TB) drives are among the most popular options for general users, providing ample space for documents, photos, and videos. They strike a balance between affordability and capacity, making them ideal for everyday tasks.
- 2TB: Two terabyte drives offer double the storage of 1TB drives, appealing to users who require more space for larger files, such as high-definition videos and extensive media libraries. This capacity is often favored by gamers and creative professionals who work with large projects.
- 4TB: Four terabyte drives are suitable for users with substantial storage needs, including those who store large datasets or maintain extensive photo and video collections. They provide significant room for growth, allowing users to archive content without frequently needing to upgrade.
- 8TB: Eight terabyte drives cater to power users and businesses that need significant storage for backups and large file archives. These drives are often used in professional environments where data management and security are paramount, allowing for extensive data storage without compromising performance.
- 12TB and above: Drives with capacities of 12TB and up are designed for specialized applications, including enterprise-level storage solutions and server backups. They are ideal for data-heavy operations, providing vast amounts of space for high-resolution media or large databases, thereby ensuring efficient data management and retrieval.
What Types of Desktop Drives Are Available and What Are Their Pros and Cons?
| Type | Pros | Cons | Typical Capacities | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDD | Large storage capacity at a low cost. | Slower data access speeds compared to SSDs. | 1TB to 10TB | Ideal for mass storage of media files, backups, and archives. |
| SSD | Faster performance and reliability; no moving parts. | Higher cost per GB compared to HDDs. | 250GB to 4TB | Best for operating systems, applications, and gaming for speed. |
| Hybrid Drive | Combines HDD capacity with SSD speed; good balance. | More complex technology; may not match SSD speeds. | 500GB to 2TB | Great for users needing both speed and capacity, like gamers. |
| External Drive | Portable and easy to use; plug-and-play functionality. | Can be slower than internal drives; dependent on connection type. | 500GB to 5TB | Perfect for on-the-go storage, backups, and file transfers. |
How Do HDDs and SSDs Differ in Terms of Speed and Reliability?
Durability is another critical factor where SSDs shine; they are less likely to be damaged from drops or shocks, making them ideal for portable devices and environments where physical impacts may occur. In contrast, HDDs can easily fail if subjected to such conditions.
Finally, the heat generation of SSDs is notably lower, which contributes to a cooler operating environment within the desktop. This characteristic can extend the lifespan of other components in the system, unlike HDDs, which may run hotter due to their mechanical nature.
Which Desktop Drives Are Best for Backup vs. Everyday Use?
| Type | Backup Drives | Everyday Use Drives |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | Usually large, 4TB to 12TB for extensive data storage. | Varies, typically 1TB to 6TB for daily files and applications. |
| Speed | Speed is less critical; often uses slower USB 2.0 connections. | High speed, often uses USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt for fast access. |
| Price | Generally more affordable per TB, focusing on capacity. | Can be pricier due to speed and performance features. |
| Drive Type | External HDD, SSD | External HDD, SSD |
| Durability | Typically less portable; may have less ruggedness. | Often designed for portability; may include shock resistance. |
| Lifespan | Average lifespan of 3-5 years. | Average lifespan of 2-4 years, depending on usage. |
| Examples | WD My Book, Seagate Backup Plus | Samsung T7, LaCie Rugged Mini |
What Brands Are Renowned for Their Quality Desktop Drives?
Several brands are renowned for producing high-quality desktop drives:
- Western Digital (WD): Known for its reliability and performance, WD offers a range of desktop drives, including the My Book series, which is popular for its ample storage and user-friendly backup software.
- Seagate: Seagate is another leading manufacturer that provides high-capacity desktop drives, such as the Backup Plus series, known for its speed and durability, making it ideal for both casual users and professionals.
- Toshiba: Toshiba’s Canvio series of desktop drives are celebrated for their compact design and robust build quality, offering both performance and portability for users in need of reliable storage solutions.
- LaCie: LaCie is favored by creative professionals for its stylish designs and high performance, with the d2 and Rugged series being particularly well-regarded for their speed and ruggedness, catering to those needing reliable data transfer and protection.
- Samsung: Although primarily known for SSDs, Samsung’s range of external desktop drives delivers exceptional speed and reliability, with their T-series drives offering high performance in a compact format, ideal for users looking for a quick access storage solution.
How Do Customer Reviews and Ratings Influence the Choice of Desktop Drive?
Customer feedback often includes practical experiences that technical specifications may not cover. For instance, a drive might have excellent read/write speeds on paper, but user reviews can reveal issues like overheating or noise during operation.
Reviews provide insight into how a desktop drive stacks up against similar products in terms of performance and value. Customers often compare their experiences with various brands and models, guiding others towards the best choice based on collective feedback.
Negative reviews can highlight common problems or shortcomings, influencing potential buyers to consider alternatives. If many users report issues with durability or compatibility, it can deter new customers from making a purchase.
High average ratings can lead to increased sales, as consumers often gravitate towards products that are well-rated. A high rating serves as a quick reference for buyers looking for quality options in a saturated market.
What Are the Top Recommendations for Desktop Drives Based on User Needs?
The best desktop drives cater to various user needs such as storage capacity, speed, portability, and reliability.
- Western Digital My Book: Known for its high storage capacity and reliability, the My Book series offers up to 18TB of space, making it ideal for users who require extensive storage for large files like videos and backups.
- Seagate Backup Plus Hub: This drive stands out for its dual USB ports that allow users to charge devices while also providing a generous storage capacity of up to 14TB, making it a convenient option for multimedia storage and backup.
- LaCie d2 Professional: With a rugged design and high-performance capabilities, the LaCie d2 Professional features USB-C connectivity and offers up to 10TB of storage, making it suitable for creative professionals needing fast data transfer rates and durability.
- Toshiba Canvio Desk: This drive is praised for its affordability and ease of use, offering up to 6TB of storage with a sleek design, making it an excellent choice for everyday users looking for reliable backup solutions without breaking the bank.
- G-Technology G-Drive: Designed for creatives, this drive delivers high performance with SSD options and up to 18TB of HDD capacity, catering to those who need speed and reliability for heavy data workloads such as video editing.
The Western Digital My Book is particularly popular for its balance of affordability and performance, ensuring that users can store large amounts of data without compromising on quality. Its automatic backup software and password protection features further enhance its usability for personal and professional needs.
The Seagate Backup Plus Hub is designed for users who appreciate added functionality, as its integrated USB hub allows for easy connectivity of other devices. This feature, combined with its reliable performance for backup and storage, makes it a versatile choice for those who often work with multiple devices.
For creative professionals, the LaCie d2 Professional offers robust performance with its high-speed connectivity and durable build, ensuring that even in the demanding environment of video and photo editing, it can handle large files effortlessly. Its aluminum casing also provides additional protection against physical damage.
The Toshiba Canvio Desk is an excellent option for users who are budget-conscious but still require a dependable external drive for everyday tasks. Its plug-and-play capability allows for quick access without needing additional software, making it user-friendly for those less tech-savvy.
Lastly, the G-Technology G-Drive is geared toward users who prioritize speed and reliability, particularly in creative industries. Its high-performance specifications and stylish design make it not only functional but also appealing for professional environments where presentation matters.
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