Best Laptops with CD/DVD Drives in 2024: Still Available?

The search for laptops with built-in CD/DVD drives continues, even as the technology fades into obsolescence. Although finding a brand-new mainstream laptop equipped with one in 2025 is proving increasingly difficult, options do remain for those who require this functionality. However, before diving into those options, it’s important to understand why the demand persists and whether an alternative solution – an external drive – might be a more practical choice.

The need for optical drives often stems from specific use cases, such as accessing medical scans, legacy software, or physical media not readily available digitally. But clinging to this older technology means compromising on modern laptop features like performance, battery life and portability. As Laptop Mag points out, pairing a current-generation laptop with an external DVD drive is often the more sensible approach.

The Challenge of Finding a Built-In Drive

The decline of optical drives in laptops mirrors the broader shift towards digital distribution of software and media. Solid-state drives (SSDs) have develop into the standard for storage, offering significantly faster speeds and greater durability than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) – which were often paired with optical drives in older laptops. Manufacturers have prioritized these advancements, leading to the gradual removal of CD/DVD drives from their designs. The space once occupied by the drive is now used for slimmer designs, larger batteries, or additional cooling components.

Best Overall: Dell Inspiron 15 5000 (2017)

If a built-in drive is non-negotiable, the Dell Inspiron 15 5000 (2017) consistently appears as a top recommendation. This model, while older, offers a balance of features and affordability. It typically includes an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, up to 1TB of HDD storage, and, crucially, a DVD drive. However, it’s important to acknowledge the trade-offs. The HDD is significantly slower than the SSDs found in modern laptops, and the processors are several generations behind current offerings. Laptop Mag’s review highlights these limitations, noting that while the Inspiron 15 5000 provides a functional solution, it lacks the speed and efficiency of newer machines.

Budget Option: Lenovo ThinkPad E570 (7th Gen)

For those seeking a more affordable option, the Lenovo ThinkPad E570 (7th Gen) presents a viable alternative. This laptop typically features an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 240GB SSD. While the specifications are modest, the inclusion of a DVD drive and a relatively low price point make it attractive for users with basic needs. However, the limited storage capacity and older processor will likely restrict its ability to handle demanding tasks. The ThinkPad E570’s strength lies in its practicality and affordability, rather than its raw performance.

Performance Pick: HP ZBook 17 G5

The HP ZBook 17 G5 stands out as the performance-oriented option for those requiring a built-in optical drive. This workstation-class laptop boasts an Intel Xeon processor, up to 32GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, alongside a Blu-ray drive. Its robust build quality and powerful components make it suitable for demanding professional applications. However, the ZBook 17 G5 comes at a premium price, typically ranging from $1000 to $1200, and its substantial weight (7.7 pounds) makes it less ideal for frequent travel. Laptop Mag’s review emphasizes its durability and processing power, but also acknowledges its size and cost.

Why External Drives Are Often a Better Choice

Given the limitations of laptops with built-in optical drives, an external DVD drive often represents a more compelling solution. External drives are readily available, relatively inexpensive, and offer compatibility with a wide range of laptops. They connect via USB, providing a convenient and portable way to access optical media. External drives often support faster read/write speeds than their internal counterparts, and some models even support Blu-ray playback.

The Wirecutter’s review of external optical drives highlights several top contenders, including the ASUS ZenDrive U9M and the OWC Mercury Pro. These drives offer a balance of performance, portability, and affordability, making them a practical alternative to searching for a rare laptop with a built-in drive.

The Future of Optical Drives

The trend towards digital distribution suggests that the demand for optical drives will continue to decline. While niche applications will likely sustain a small market for external drives, the integration of optical drives into laptops appears to be a thing of the past. Manufacturers are focusing on innovation in areas such as SSD technology, display quality, and battery life, leaving optical drives behind.

For those who still rely on optical media, the transition to external drives offers a pragmatic solution. It allows users to maintain access to their existing collection without compromising on the performance and features of a modern laptop. As technology continues to evolve, the convenience and versatility of external drives will likely solidify their position as the preferred method for accessing optical media.

the decision of whether to purchase a laptop with a built-in CD/DVD drive or opt for an external solution depends on individual needs and priorities. However, given the limitations of older laptops and the advantages of modern technology, an external drive is often the more sensible and cost-effective choice.