An external Blu-ray drive gives a PC without an optical drive a way to access discs, back up files, and burn compatible media. But drives differ in speed, power needs, ports, and software support.
These 10 options range from slim USB-powered burners to a larger desktop drive and models with built-in hubs. The right choice depends on what you want to read or write—and whether Blu-ray movie playback matters.
Best 10 External Blu Ray Drives for PC Picks for 2026
Hub-Equipped Burner
- Burns Blu-ray discs up to 50GB
- Adds USB ports and a TF/SD slot
- Includes carrying case and disc sleeves
Best For: Portable disc burning with extra connectivity
High-Speed Desktop Pick
- Up to 16x Blu-ray writing
- BDXL storage up to 128GB
- Includes burning software
Best For: Fast, high-capacity disc archiving
Blu-ray Reader with Hub
- Reads Blu-ray, including BD-XL
- Burns DVDs and CDs, not Blu-rays
- Adds USB ports and a TF/SD slot
Best For: Blu-ray viewing and DVD/CD burning
Ultra-Slim BDXL Burner
- BDXL and M-DISC support
- USB-A and USB-C connectivity
- 240g ultra-slim design
Best For: Portable Blu-ray burning with flexible USB connections
Best for 100GB Burning
- Reads and writes 100GB discs
- USB-C, USB-A, and SD/TF connections
- No UHD 4K playback
Best For: Large disc backups with extra laptop connections
Best Travel Hub
8-in-1 Blu-ray Drive with Carrying Case
- Burns Blu-ray discs up to 50GB
- USB hub and SD/TF card reader
- Case and four disc sleeves included
Best For: Portable disc access with extra laptop ports
Best for UHD-Capable PCs
archgon Aluminum 4K Blu-ray Writer
- Reads UHD Blu-ray discs
- Writes regular Blu-ray, DVD, and CD
- UHD playback needs a compatible PC and software
Best For: Windows PCs verified for UHD Blu-ray playback
Best for Extra Ports
- Two USB ports plus SD/TF slot
- USB-A and USB-C connections
- No 4K Ultra HD disc playback
Best For: Laptop users needing a disc drive and extra ports
Best for Blu-ray Burning
- Lists BD-R and BD-RE writing
- Extra USB cable supplies power
- Blu-ray software not included
Best For: Users who need to write Blu-ray discs
Best for Blu-ray Viewing
LLMHHKYK Portable Blu-ray Drive
- Reads Blu-ray discs up to 6X
- Burns CDs and DVDs, not Blu-ray
- USB-A and USB-C connectors
Best For: Reading Blu-ray discs and burning CDs or DVDs
Hub-Equipped Burner – 8-in-1 Blu-ray Drive
Among external blu ray drives for pc, this model stands out if you want a Blu-ray burner that also handles everyday connections. It reads and writes standard Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and CDs, while its built-in hub adds USB ports and a card slot.
Best For: Laptop users who want Blu-ray burning and extra ports in one portable device.
Pros:
- Burns BD-R discs at up to 6x, including dual-layer discs up to 50GB.
- Provides two USB-C ports, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, and a TF/SD slot.
- Includes a USB-A/USB-C data cable, carrying case, and disc sleeves.
Cons:
- Cannot play 4K Blu-ray discs or record BD-XL discs.
- TF and SD cards cannot be used simultaneously; Blu-ray playback requires third-party software.
Choose it for the combination of disc burning and hub convenience, rather than for 4K playback or Blu-ray recording beyond 50GB.
High-Speed Desktop Pick – ASUS BW-16D1X-U
If writing speed matters most when comparing external blu ray drives for pc, the ASUS BW-16D1X-U offers up to 16x Blu-ray writing. It also supports BDXL discs for data storage up to 128GB and connects to Mac or PC through USB 3.0.
Best For: Users who burn large Blu-ray archives and have room for a larger external drive.
Pros:
- Offers up to 16x Blu-ray writing speed.
- Supports BDXL storage up to 128GB and M-DISC media.
- Includes CyberLink Power2Go 8 burning software with optional encryption.
Cons:
- At 9.5 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches and 2.6 pounds, it is less bag-friendly than slim drives.
- The included power adapter and cord add to a desk setup.
This is a strong fit for a workstation where burn speed and high-capacity discs matter more than compactness.
Blu-ray Reader with Hub – 5-in-1 External Drive
For shoppers considering external blu ray drives for pc primarily to access existing discs, this 5-in-1 model reads Blu-rays and burns DVDs and CDs. Its USB ports and TF/SD slot add useful connections without changing its key limitation: it cannot burn Blu-ray discs.
Best For: People who want portable Blu-ray reading, DVD/CD burning, and a few extra ports.
Pros:
- Reads BD-ROM, BD-R/RE, and BD-XL discs at up to 6x.
- Burns DVDs at up to 8x and CDs at up to 24x.
- Includes USB-A/USB-C connectivity, two USB ports, and a TF/SD slot.
Cons:
- Does not record Blu-ray discs or play 4K Blu-rays.
- TF and SD cards cannot be read at the same time; 3D Blu-ray playback needs third-party software.
It makes sense if Blu-ray access is the priority and your writing needs stop at DVD and CD.
Ultra-Slim BDXL Burner – ASUS SBW-06D5H-U
ASUS SBW-06D5H-U BDXL External Ultra Slim Blu-ray and MDisc Burner USB 3.1 USB-C 2 Cables Black
Check Price On AmazonThe ASUS SBW-06D5H-U is a compact option among external blu ray drives for pc when you want a Blu-ray burner with BDXL and M-DISC support. Its ultra-slim body measures 5.87 x 5.67 x 0.58 inches and weighs 240 grams.
Best For: Notebook users seeking a slim Blu-ray burner with USB-A and USB-C cable options.
Pros:
- Supports BDXL and M-DISC media.
- Includes USB 3.1 Type-A and Type-C connectivity.
- Compact 0.58-inch-thick body weighs 240 grams.
Cons:
- The supplied notes do not establish a single maximum Blu-ray writing speed or BDXL capacity.
- Disc playback software is not specified in the supplied notes.
Pick this ASUS model for its slim format and listed media support, but verify the exact speeds and software you need before buying.
Best for 100GB Burning – Wbacon 7-in-1 Blu-ray Drive
Among external blu ray drives for pc, this Wbacon model stands out for its stated ability to read and write 100GB Blu-ray discs. Its built-in ports and card slots also make it useful when your laptop has limited connections.
Best For: Backing up large files to 100GB discs while connecting USB devices or transferring files from a memory card.
Pros:
- Supports reading and writing 100GB Blu-ray discs.
- Includes two USB-C ports, USB-A ports, and SD and TF card slots.
- Works with Windows, macOS, and Linux according to the product notes.
Cons:
- Does not support UHD 4K Blu-ray playback.
- SD and TF cards cannot be used simultaneously; Blu-ray playback and writing require suitable software.
Choose this one if 100GB disc writing matters more than 4K movie playback. Check your software setup before buying, particularly if you plan to burn Blu-ray discs.
Best Travel Hub – 8-in-1 Blu-ray Drive with Carrying Case
If you want external blu ray drives for pc that also reduce the need for a separate hub, this 8-in-1 model combines disc reading and burning with USB ports and a card reader. It includes a carrying case and four disc sleeves for packing it with your laptop.
Best For: Laptop users who want a portable Blu-ray drive, peripheral connections, and SD or TF card access in one unit.
Pros:
- Reads BD-XL 100GB discs and burns Blu-ray discs up to 50GB.
- Provides two USB-C ports, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, and SD/TF card access.
- Includes a carrying case, four disc sleeves, and a supplemental USB power cable.
Cons:
- Cannot burn 100GB Blu-ray discs or play UHD 4K Blu-ray discs.
- SD and TF cards cannot be read simultaneously; Blu-ray playback requires third-party software.
This is the more practical pick when ports and travel accessories matter most. If your project requires writing 100GB discs, its 50GB Blu-ray recording limit is the deciding constraint.
Best for UHD-Capable PCs – archgon Aluminum 4K Blu-ray Writer
archgon Premium Aluminum External USB 3.0 UHD 4K Blu-Ray Writer Super Drive for PC and Mac
Check Price On AmazonFew external blu ray drives for pc in this selection claim UHD disc reading; this archgon drive does, while also reading and writing regular Blu-ray, DVD, and CD discs. Its CNC aluminum enclosure is another distinction, but UHD playback depends heavily on the computer and software.
Best For: Windows PC owners prepared to verify UHD playback compatibility and obtain appropriate playback software.
Pros:
- Can read UHD Blu-ray discs with a suitable setup.
- Reads and writes regular Blu-ray, DVD, and CD discs; supports M-DISC BD-R.
- Has a CNC aluminum body and USB 3.0 connection.
Cons:
- UHD playback requires compatible equipment and third-party software; the seller recommends checking with Ultra HD Blu-ray Advisor before purchase.
- The product notes say suitable UHD Blu-ray playback software is not available for Mac, limiting Mac use to regular discs.
Buy this for its UHD reading capability only after checking your PC against the playback requirements. Mac users seeking regular Blu-ray writing can still consider it, but should not expect UHD movie playback.
Best for Extra Ports – BUNUD 5-in-1 Blu-ray Drive
Among external blu ray drives for pc, the BUNUD 5-in-1 stands out for adding two USB ports and an SD/TF card slot alongside its disc drive. Its slim design and embedded cable make it easier to pack with a laptop.
Best For: Laptop users who want Blu-ray access and extra ports in one portable device.
Pros:
- Reads Blu-ray discs and supports CD/DVD reading and writing.
- Includes two USB ports and an SD/TF card slot.
- Connects through USB-A or USB-C and supports Windows PCs and Macs.
Cons:
- Does not play 4K Ultra HD discs.
- Not intended for Chromebooks, TVs, tablets, or phones.
Choose this model if its extra connections will earn their space on your desk. If 4K Ultra HD disc playback is essential, look elsewhere.
Best for Blu-ray Burning – Dainty External Blu-ray Drive
For shoppers comparing external blu ray drives for pc, this Dainty model is worth a look if writing Blu-ray discs matters. Its listed write support includes BD-R and BD-RE formats, and it comes with an additional USB power cable to help maintain a stable supply.
Best For: PC or laptop users who need Blu-ray writing and can provide an extra USB power connection.
Pros:
- Lists BD-R and BD-RE writing support, plus CD/DVD reading and writing.
- Additional USB power cable is designed to reduce interruptions from insufficient power.
- Offers USB-A and USB-C connections and lists Windows, macOS, and Linux compatibility.
Cons:
- Blu-ray playback and writing require separate software, which is not included.
- The extra power cable may occupy another USB port.
This is the more suitable pick here when burning Blu-ray media is the priority. Budget for the required software and check that your computer has a spare port for supplemental power.
Best for Blu-ray Viewing – LLMHHKYK Portable Blu-ray Drive
If you need external blu ray drives for pc primarily to read discs, this LLMHHKYK model keeps the focus on Blu-ray reading and CD/DVD burning. It connects through USB-A or USB-C and has an embedded cable for travel.
Best For: Windows, Mac, or Linux laptop users who want to read Blu-ray discs and burn CDs or DVDs.
Pros:
- Reads Blu-ray discs at a listed speed of up to 6X.
- Supports CD/DVD playback and burning.
- Includes USB-A and USB-C connectors in a lightweight design.
Cons:
- Cannot burn Blu-ray discs.
- Blu-ray playback requires third-party software.
Its key distinction is simple: it reads Blu-ray media but writes only CDs and DVDs. That makes it a practical option for viewing or accessing existing Blu-ray discs, not creating new ones.
How We Picked the Best External Blu Ray Drives for PC
We looked for a useful mix of portable and desktop designs, USB-A and USB-C connections, disc-writing options, and extras such as card readers. We prioritized differences buyers can check before ordering: supported disc formats, stated write speeds, power requirements, and operating-system compatibility. Listed features are not a substitute for checking the seller’s current specifications, especially for drives with similar names.
Quick Comparison: Which Type Fits Your Desk?
For frequent burning: The ASUS BW-16D1X-U is the larger, 16x-writing option in this group; check its power setup and desk space before choosing it. For travel: Slim drives, including the ASUS SBW-06D5H-U and several USB-A/USB-C models, are easier to pack. For fewer laptop ports: The 7-in-1 and 8-in-1 models add hub-style connections or card readers, but verify that their ports meet your needs. For specialized discs: Look closely at the ASUS model’s BDXL and M-DISC support, or the archgon model’s stated UHD capability; neither label guarantees that your PC can play every movie disc.
Key Buying Factors for External Blu-Ray Drives for PC
Disc Formats and Software
Confirm whether a drive reads and writes the formats you use: BD-R, BD-RE, DVD, and CD support can differ, while BDXL and M-DISC require explicit compatibility. A drive can read a Blu-ray disc without including software to play commercial movies. If movies are your goal, budget for compatible playback software and check disc-region and copy-protection requirements. UHD Blu-ray playback has particularly strict hardware and software requirements, so verify your complete PC setup before buying a drive for 4K films.
Connection, Power, and Speed
Check your PC’s available USB ports and the connector supplied with the drive. USB-C describes the plug, not necessarily a faster connection. Some drives draw power from USB; others may need a second USB connection or an external adapter. That matters on laptops with limited ports. Write-speed figures are useful for comparison, but actual burn times also depend on the disc, file size, and computer.
Portability and Build
A slim drive is convenient for occasional use away from a desk. A larger desktop unit makes more sense if it will stay connected and burn discs regularly. Hub-equipped models can reduce dongle clutter, but check whether the included cable reaches comfortably and whether you still have enough power for the drive and connected accessories.
Who Should Buy Which External Blu Ray Drives for PC?
Choose a straightforward slim USB drive if you mainly need occasional disc access or backups. Consider the larger ASUS 16x model if burning speed and a permanent desk setup matter more than portability. Pick a hub-style model only if its extra ports replace accessories you would otherwise carry. If you need BDXL, M-DISC, or UHD, start with that specific format requirement, then confirm software, PC compatibility, and power before comparing price.