Remember when watching movies or installing software meant popping in a disc? For many of us, that familiar click and whir is a nostalgic sound. But in today’s world of streaming and digital downloads, finding a laptop that still has a built-in DVD drive can feel like searching for a unicorn!
This can be frustrating, especially if you have a collection of DVDs you love, or if your work or studies require you to use discs. The market seems to have moved on, leaving many people wondering if they’ll ever find a new laptop that can play their favorite movies or old software. It’s tough to know what to look for when the options are so limited.
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll dive into why laptops with DVD drives are still a great choice for some people and guide you through what to consider when you’re looking for one. By the end, you’ll know exactly what makes a good DVD-enabled laptop and how to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Our Top 5 Laptops With Dvd Drives Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Laptops With Dvd Drives Detailed Reviews
1. HP 17.3″ FHD Laptop for Business and Students – with External CD/DVD Drive & Office Lifetime License
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready for a powerhouse laptop that’s built for both work and school! This HP 17.3″ FHD Laptop is packed with features to help you get things done. It’s got a big screen, a fast processor, and even a special bonus: a lifetime license for Microsoft Office and an external CD/DVD drive. This means you can enjoy your favorite movies and install old software easily. Plus, with Windows 11 Pro, you get great security and tools to boost your productivity.
What We Like:
- The AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor with 6 cores makes multitasking a breeze. It’s super fast, going from 2.3 GHz up to 4.3 GHz when you need it.
- The large 17.3-inch Full HD screen is bright and clear. Its anti-glare coating means you can see everything, even in sunny rooms.
- You can chat with friends or join meetings with a clear picture thanks to the built-in HD webcam with a privacy shutter.
- Stay connected with super-fast Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.
- Windows 11 Pro offers advanced security like BitLocker and helpful tools for your work.
- This laptop is great for anyone – students, professionals, or creators. Its power and display make it ready for any task.
- The included lifetime Microsoft Office license is a fantastic value.
- Having an external CD/DVD drive is handy for older discs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The display brightness is 250 nits, which is good but might not be bright enough for very sunny outdoor use.
- While the Ryzen 5 is great, it might not be the absolute top-tier processor for the most demanding professional tasks.
This HP laptop is a well-rounded machine that offers great performance and value for its price. It’s an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable and capable device for their daily tasks.
2. NBVCXSD 17.3” FHD Business Laptop
Rating: 9.2/10
The NBVCXSD 17.3” FHD Business Laptop offers a large screen and a familiar set of features for those who need them. It runs Windows 11 and has enough power for everyday tasks.
What We Like:
- The Intel N5095 Quad-Core Processor and 8GB of RAM make it easy to switch between different programs. This is great for schoolwork or office tasks.
- You get a big 512GB SSD for storing your files. The 17.3-inch FHD screen is also nice and easy on your eyes.
- It has a built-in DVD-RW drive, which is hard to find on newer laptops. This is useful if you still use CDs or DVDs.
- The 6000mAh battery lasts a long time, so you can work or play without always needing to charge.
- The company offers a 365-day warranty and promises quick customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a DVD drive, some might prefer more modern ports like additional USB-C ports.
- The Celeron processor is good for basic tasks, but it might not be fast enough for very demanding games or heavy video editing.
This laptop is a solid option if you value a large display and the convenience of a DVD drive. It’s a good choice for everyday use and comes with helpful customer support.
3. HP 15.6 Business Touchscreen Laptop Computer – w/Office Lifetime & Windows 11 Pro & DVD Drive
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to boost your productivity with the HP 15.6 Business Touchscreen Laptop. This machine is packed with features to help you tackle your work and studies with ease. From its speedy processor to its touch-friendly screen, it’s designed for smooth, efficient use.
What We Like:
- The 13th Generation Intel i3 processor makes everything run fast. You can switch between apps and websites without any slowdown.
- The 15.6-inch HD touchscreen display is bright and clear. It makes navigating your computer and everyday tasks super simple.
- You get a whopping 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. This means you can run many programs at once and store tons of files.
- It comes with Windows 11 Pro and a lifetime Microsoft Office license. This saves you money and gets you ready to work right away.
- Lots of ways to connect! It has Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and ports like USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI.
- A DVD drive is included, which is handy for older software or movies.
What Could Be Improved:
- The display is rated at 250 nits, which might not be bright enough for very sunny environments.
- While the Intel i3 is good for general tasks, heavy gaming or demanding video editing might be slow.
This HP laptop offers a great balance of performance and value for students and business users. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable, feature-rich computer.
4. Dell Latitude E5430 14.1 Inch Business High Performace Laptop (Intel Core i5-3320M up to 3.3GHz
Rating: 9.4/10
The Dell Latitude E5430 is a tough and reliable business laptop. It’s built to handle your workday with its strong performance and durable design. This renewed laptop offers a good balance of features for everyday tasks. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing a dependable machine without breaking the bank.
What We Like:
- Strong Intel Core i5 processor for smooth multitasking.
- Durable build, tested to MIL-STD 810G standards.
- Spill-resistant keyboard protects against accidents.
- Built-in DVD drive for watching movies or installing software.
- Plenty of ports, including USB 3.0 for faster data transfer.
- Gigabit Ethernet for fast wired internet.
- Runs Windows 10 Professional for business use.
What Could Be Improved:
- No built-in webcam for video calls.
- The 1366 x 768 display resolution is basic.
- 4GB of RAM might be slow for very demanding programs.
- The 320GB hard drive is not very large by today’s standards.
- Comes with a recovery partition, not a recovery disc.
This Dell Latitude E5430 is a solid option for users needing a dependable and affordable laptop. It’s a great value for its business-focused features and rugged construction.
5. HP Elitebook 8470p Laptop – Core i5 3320m 2.6ghz – 8GB DDR3 – 128GB SSD – DVDRW – Windows 10 64bit – (Renewed)
Rating: 9.3/10
The HP Elitebook 8470p is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable laptop for school or work. It’s a renewed model, meaning it’s been checked and fixed up, so it’s ready to go. This laptop packs a good punch for everyday tasks, like browsing the web, writing papers, or watching videos. The screen is a decent size for multitasking, and it even has a DVD drive for those old CDs and DVDs.
What We Like:
- It has a fast processor, the Intel Core i5-3320M, that can speed up to 3.30 GHz. This makes it quick for opening apps and switching between them.
- The 128GB SSD makes the laptop boot up and load programs much faster than older hard drives.
- With 8GB of RAM, you can run multiple programs at once without the computer slowing down.
- It comes with a DVD-RW drive, which is handy if you still use CDs or DVDs.
- The laptop has plenty of ports, including USB 3.0 for faster file transfers, and even a FireWire port for older devices.
- It runs on Windows 10 64-bit, which is a modern and familiar operating system.
- Being a renewed product, it offers great value for its price.
What Could Be Improved:
- The screen resolution is 1366 x 768, which is HD but not Full HD. Some people might prefer a sharper display.
- The design is a bit older, so it might not be as sleek or lightweight as the newest laptops.
- The processor is from an older generation, so it won’t be as powerful as the latest Intel Core i5 chips.
Overall, the HP Elitebook 8470p is a dependable and affordable laptop that gets the job done for everyday computing. It’s a great option for students or those who need a second computer without breaking the bank.
Finding Your Next Laptop with a DVD Drive: A Helpful Guide
In today’s digital world, many laptops skip the DVD drive. But if you still love watching DVDs, using old software discs, or backing up files to discs, a laptop with a built-in DVD drive is a great choice. This guide will help you find the perfect one.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a laptop with a DVD drive, consider these important features:
- Optical Drive Type: Most laptops come with a DVD-RW drive. This means you can read (watch) and write (burn) DVDs. Some might have a Blu-ray drive, which is even better for high-definition movies.
- Screen Size and Resolution: Think about how you’ll use the laptop. A larger screen (15-17 inches) is good for movies and work. A higher resolution (like Full HD or 1080p) makes pictures and text look sharper.
- Processor (CPU): This is the laptop’s brain. For everyday tasks like browsing and watching DVDs, an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 is usually fine. For more demanding tasks, a Core i5/Ryzen 5 or higher is better.
- RAM (Memory): This helps your laptop run programs smoothly. 8GB of RAM is a good starting point for most users. If you plan to do a lot of multitasking, consider 16GB.
- Storage (Hard Drive/SSD): A Solid State Drive (SSD) is much faster than a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD). It makes your laptop boot up quicker and programs load faster. Look for at least 256GB SSD.
- Battery Life: How long do you need the laptop to last on a single charge? Check the estimated battery life in the product description.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a laptop affect its durability and feel.
- Plastic: Many laptops use plastic for their casing. Good quality plastic can be strong and lightweight.
- Aluminum: Laptops with aluminum bodies are often more premium. They feel sturdier and can look sleeker.
- Build Quality: Even with plastic, good hinges and a solid keyboard deck make a big difference. Try to read reviews about how well the laptop is put together.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a laptop better or worse.
- Keyboard and Touchpad: A comfortable keyboard makes typing enjoyable. A responsive touchpad makes navigating easy.
- Speakers: If you plan to watch movies without headphones, good built-in speakers are a plus.
- Ports: Make sure the laptop has the ports you need, like USB ports for connecting other devices and an HDMI port for connecting to a TV.
- Weight and Thickness: If you plan to carry your laptop around a lot, a lighter and thinner model will be more comfortable.
- Cooling System: A good cooling system prevents the laptop from overheating, which can slow it down and damage parts over time.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A laptop with a DVD drive is perfect for several situations:
- Movie Lovers: Enjoy your DVD collection without needing a separate player.
- Students: Use educational DVDs or install software that comes on discs.
- Nostalgia Buffs: Revisit old family videos or music CDs.
- Backup Enthusiasts: Burn important files onto DVDs for safekeeping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why are laptops with DVD drives becoming rare?
A: Many new laptops are designed to be thinner and lighter. DVD drives take up space, so manufacturers often leave them out to make laptops more portable. Also, streaming and USB drives are more common ways to share and watch content now.
Q: Can I add an external DVD drive if my laptop doesn’t have one?
A: Yes, you can easily buy an external USB DVD drive. These plug into your laptop’s USB port and work just like a built-in one. They are a great option if you only need a DVD drive once in a while.
Q: What’s the difference between a DVD-RW and a Blu-ray drive?
A: A DVD-RW drive can read and write DVDs. A Blu-ray drive can do all that and also read and write Blu-ray discs, which hold more data and are used for high-definition movies.
Q: Will a laptop with a DVD drive be slower than one without?
A: Not necessarily. The speed of a laptop depends on its processor, RAM, and storage. A laptop with a DVD drive can still be very fast if it has good internal components.
Q: How do I know if a laptop has a DVD drive?
A: Check the product description or the laptop’s specifications. It will usually mention “DVD-RW drive” or “Optical Drive.” You can also often see a slot on the side of the laptop where the DVD tray slides out.
Q: Are there gaming laptops with DVD drives?
A: Yes, some gaming laptops still include DVD drives, especially those designed for a wider range of users. However, many modern gaming laptops focus on portability and often omit them.
Q: How much longer will DVD drives be around?
A: DVDs are still used, but their popularity is declining. While you can still find laptops with DVD drives, they might become harder to find in the future as technology continues to change.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a DVD drive in a laptop?
A: A well-maintained DVD drive can last for many years. However, like any moving part, it can eventually wear out with heavy use.
Q: Can I play Blu-ray discs on a laptop with only a DVD drive?
A: No, you cannot. You need a Blu-ray drive to play Blu-ray discs. A DVD drive can only play standard DVDs.
Q: What should I do if my laptop’s DVD drive stops working?
A: First, try cleaning the DVD drive lens with a cleaning disc. If that doesn’t work, you might need to have it repaired or consider using an external DVD drive.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
William has over three years of experience in building gazebos. He started AskGazebo.com to assist his clients.