10 Best Laptops With DVD Drives in 2025: a Comprehensive Guide

In 2025, you'll come across some standout laptops with DVD drives that cater to various needs. Look for models like the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 and Dell G16 7630 for great performance. The Acer Aspire 3 and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon are excellent for everyday tasks, while the MSI Titan and Lenovo Legion Pro 7i bring gaming capabilities. When choosing, consider specs like processor type, RAM, and storage options that enhance your experience. These laptops have the added benefit of physical media access, making them versatile for many users. There's plenty more to explore on the best choices for your needs!

Key Takeaways

• Look for laptops with Intel i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7 processors for optimal performance when using DVD drives.
• Ensure at least 8GB RAM and SSD storage options between 128GB and 2TB for smooth operation and data access.
• Consider build quality and weight; lightweight models enhance portability, while heavy laptops often include DVD drives.
• Evaluate connectivity features like USB 3.0 and HDMI for versatile usage alongside DVD playback capabilities.
• Research user reviews for insights into performance, durability, and potential quality control issues in laptop models with DVD drives.

ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 Laptop (CX3402CBA-DH386-WH)

The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 (CX3402CBA-DH386-WH) stands out as an excellent choice for users seeking a balance of performance and portability, particularly for students and professionals who prioritize a lightweight device with robust capabilities. Featuring a 14-inch Full HD NanoEdge anti-glare display, this Chromebook is powered by an Intel® Core™ i3-1215U processor, coupled with 8GB LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB UFS storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance. Weighing just 5.14 pounds and measuring 12.85 x 0.74 x 8.44 inches, it is compact and travel-friendly. With up to 10 hours of battery life, users can rely on it for extended use. Integrated AI-powered features enhance user experience, making this device both stylish and functional.

Best For: Students and professionals seeking a lightweight, high-performance Chromebook with extended battery life for on-the-go productivity.

Pros:

• Double the speed, memory, and storage compared to many top-selling Chromebooks, enhancing multitasking capabilities.
• AI-powered features like Magic Eraser and noise cancellation improve user experience and functionality.
• Compact design and up to 10 hours of battery life make it ideal for travel and extended use.

Cons:

• Some users report constant fan noise, which may be distracting during use.
• Internal speakers have low sound output, potentially affecting multimedia experiences.
• Mixed feedback on Bluetooth functionality and the absence of USB 2.0 ports may limit connectivity options.

Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P Slim Laptop

Designed with portability and usability in mind, the Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P Slim Laptop is an excellent choice for families and individuals seeking a reliable device for everyday computing tasks. Its 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display provides stunning visuals, while the AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core processor guarantees efficient multitasking. With 8GB LPDDR5 memory and a 128GB NVMe SSD, the laptop supports quick start-ups and smooth performance for web browsing, streaming, and light coding. Weighing just 3.92 pounds and offering up to 11 hours of battery life, it is highly portable. Users appreciate its upgradeability options and commend its display quality, making it a well-rounded choice for basic home use.

Best For: Families and individuals seeking a reliable, portable laptop for everyday computing tasks such as web browsing, streaming, and light coding.

Pros:

• Stunning 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display for exceptional visuals and viewing angles.
• Lightweight design at just 3.92 pounds, making it easy to carry on the go.
• Upgradeable RAM and storage options allow for enhanced performance and personalization.

Cons:

• Windows S Mode restrictions may limit software installations and usage.
• Limited gaming capabilities, suitable only for light gaming scenarios.
• 128GB SSD may require expansion for users with extensive storage needs.

Dell G16 7630 Gaming Laptop

Equipped with a powerful Intel Core i9-13900HX processor and a stunning 16-inch QHD+ 240Hz display, the Dell G16 7630 Gaming Laptop is an ideal choice for gamers and professionals seeking high performance in graphic-intensive tasks. With 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD, it enhances multitasking and reduces load times. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card delivers immersive gaming experiences, achieving impressive fps rates. However, some users report overheating issues and quality control concerns, including defective screens. While the sleek design and vibrant display are remarkable, the RGB keyboard offers limited customization. Overall, the Dell G16 7630 marries aesthetics with functionality, making it a solid option for demanding applications.

Best For: Gamers and professionals needing high-performance hardware for graphic-intensive tasks and multitasking.

Pros:

• Fast DDR5 memory enables smoother gameplay and faster load times.
• 240Hz refresh rate minimizes lag during gaming, providing a competitive edge.
• Sleek design with a vibrant display enhances visual experience and aesthetics.

Cons:

• Some users reported overheating issues, especially during high-graphics settings.
• Quality control concerns noted, including defective screens and battery performance.
• Limited RGB keyboard customization options may not meet all user preferences.

Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 Chip

For users seeking a lightweight and powerful laptop, the Apple 2022 MacBook Air with M2 chip stands out with its impressive battery life, offering up to 18 hours of movie playback and 15 hours of wireless web usage. Weighing just 2.7 pounds, this model features a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2560-by-1664, supporting over 1 billion colors. Equipped with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, the M2 chip guarantees high performance, making it ideal for multitasking and creative tasks. Connectivity options include MagSafe and two Thunderbolt ports, alongside Wi-Fi 6 support. With its sleek design and superior sound quality from the four-speaker system, the MacBook Air is a compelling choice for both casual and professional users.

Best For: The Apple 2022 MacBook Air with M2 chip is best for students and professionals seeking a lightweight, high-performance laptop for multitasking and creative tasks.

Pros:

• Exceptional battery life, lasting up to 18 hours for movie playback and 15 hours for web usage.
• Lightweight design at just 2.7 pounds, making it highly portable for on-the-go use.
• Impressive display quality with a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina screen supporting over 1 billion colors.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options for memory and storage compared to some competitors.
• The price point may be higher than other laptops with similar specifications.
• The lack of additional ports may require users to invest in adapters for certain peripherals.

ASUS Zenbook 14 Business Laptop (2024)

The ASUS Zenbook 14 UM3406HA Business Laptop (2024) stands out as an excellent choice for professionals seeking a powerful yet portable computing solution. Featuring a 14-inch WUXGA touchscreen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels and 500 nits brightness, this laptop guarantees vibrant visuals and smooth interactions. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor, it offers remarkable performance with 8 cores and 16 threads, complemented by 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and a 512GB PCI-E NVMe SSD. The lightweight design (2.82 lbs) and slim profile (0.59 inches) enhance portability, while an extensive array of ports, including USB 4.0 and HDMI v2.1, guarantees versatile connectivity. Additionally, the laptop's backlit keyboard and privacy-focused 1080p FHD camera offer enhanced usability for business professionals.

Best For: Professionals seeking a powerful, portable laptop with advanced features for business and productivity tasks.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor and 16GB LPDDR5 RAM.
• High-quality 14-inch WUXGA touchscreen with vibrant visuals and touch functionality.
• Lightweight and slim design enhances portability for on-the-go use.

Cons:

• Battery life may not last a full workday under heavy usage.
• Limited upgrade options due to soldered RAM.
• Integrated graphics may not be suitable for intensive gaming or graphic design tasks.

ASUS Zenbook Duo Laptop (UX8406MA-PS99T)

Among the standout features of the ASUS Zenbook Duo Laptop (UX8406MA-PS99T) is its innovative dual 14" OLED touch displays, which cater to professionals and creatives who require enhanced multitasking capabilities. Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor and Intel Arc Graphics, this laptop excels in performance, boasting up to 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a 1TB SSD for ample storage. The device runs on Windows 11 and offers versatile usage modes, including Dual Screen and Laptop Mode, enhancing productivity. With a weight of just 3.64 lbs and a thickness of 0.78", it is highly portable. Additionally, it meets military durability standards, ensuring reliability for on-the-go users, though customer support experiences may vary.

Best For: Professionals and creatives seeking a powerful and versatile laptop for multitasking and enhanced productivity.

Pros:

• Innovative dual 14" OLED touch displays enable efficient multitasking and improved workflow.
• Lightweight and portable design at 3.64 lbs and 0.78" thickness, making it easy to carry.
• Robust performance with Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and 32GB RAM, ideal for demanding applications.

Cons:

• Customer support experiences can be inconsistent, with reports of slow service during repairs.
• Some users have reported issues with screen durability, raising concerns about long-term reliability.
• Software quirks have been noted, although many were resolved with updates.

ASUS ProArt P16 Laptop with AMD Ryzen 9 HX and 32 GB RAM

Creatives and professionals seeking high-performance computing will find the ASUS ProArt P16 Laptop to be an exceptional choice, particularly due to its powerful AMD Ryzen 9 HX processor, which boasts a remarkable boost clock of up to 5.1GHz across 12 cores. Complemented by 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB PCIe SSD, this laptop guarantees seamless multitasking and ample storage for large projects. The 16-inch 4K display, with a resolution of 3840 x 2400 and a brightness of 400 nits, delivers stunning visuals, while the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card enhances creative workflows. Additionally, a robust selection of USB ports and HDMI connectivity facilitates extensive compatibility with various devices, making it a versatile tool for professionals.

Best For: Creatives and professionals seeking high-performance computing for demanding tasks and projects.

Pros:

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 HX processor with a boost clock of up to 5.1GHz for exceptional performance.
• Stunning 16-inch 4K display with a high resolution of 3840 x 2400 and impressive brightness for vivid visuals.
• Robust connectivity options including multiple USB ports and HDMI, ensuring compatibility with various devices.

Cons:

• Heavier weight at 9 pounds, which may not be ideal for portability.
• Limited battery life under intensive workloads due to high-performance components.
• Higher price point compared to entry-level laptops, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users.

Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 Laptop (2024 Model)

For gamers and power users seeking a high-performance machine in 2025, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 Laptop stands out with its cutting-edge Intel i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card. Equipped with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB SSD, this laptop guarantees seamless multitasking and ample storage for demanding applications. The 16-inch WQXGA display offers a stunning resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, enhanced by a 240Hz refresh rate, perfect for immersive gaming experiences. The Legion ColdFront cooling system efficiently manages heat, while the AI Tuning feature optimizes performance. However, customer feedback indicates some quality control issues, highlighting the importance of thorough checks before purchase. Overall, it's a formidable option for serious gamers.

Best For: Serious gamers and power users looking for a high-performance laptop with cutting-edge specifications and immersive display capabilities.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card for seamless gaming and multitasking.
• High-Quality Display: 16-inch WQXGA display with a 240Hz refresh rate provides stunning visuals and an immersive gaming experience.
• Advanced Cooling System: Legion ColdFront with Vapor Chamber technology efficiently manages heat during intense gaming sessions.

Cons:

• Quality Control Issues: Some users report problems with quality control, including abrupt shutdowns during gaming.
• Weight: At 10.44 pounds, it may not be the most portable option for users who need to carry it frequently.
• Mixed Customer Ratings: With a customer review rating of only 3.5 out of 5 stars, user satisfaction may vary.

MSI Titan 18 HX Gaming Laptop (A14VIG-036US)

The MSI Titan 18 HX Gaming Laptop (A14VIG-036US) stands out as an exceptional choice for gamers seeking unparalleled performance and cutting-edge technology. Featuring an impressive 18-inch 4K UHD MiniLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, it guarantees stunning visuals. Powered by the Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics, this laptop delivers exceptional gaming experiences. With 128 GB of DDR5 memory and a massive 4 TB NVMe SSD, multitasking and storage demands are effortlessly met. Advanced cooling technology, Cooler Boost 5, maintains ideal temperatures during prolonged gaming sessions. Despite its high price and some user feedback regarding power cord length and fan noise, the Titan 18 HX remains a top-tier option for dedicated gamers.

Best For: Gamers who demand top-tier performance, stunning visuals, and advanced technology in a portable laptop.

Pros:

• Exceptional gaming performance with high core count and advanced graphics technology.
• Large RAM capacity (128 GB DDR5) and massive storage (4 TB NVMe SSD) for seamless multitasking and ample space.
• Advanced cooling system (Cooler Boost 5) ensures optimal temperatures during intense gaming sessions.

Cons:

• High price point may not be suitable for all budgets.
• Short power cord length can be inconvenient for some users.
• Noisy fans under load and reported quality control issues.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Laptop (Gen 11)

Engineered for professionals seeking a high-performance solution, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Laptop (Gen 11) stands out with its Intel Core i7-1365U vPro Processor and lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for business users on the go. Featuring a 14-inch WUXGA anti-glare touchscreen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, it guarantees vibrant visuals. The laptop is equipped with 32GB LPDDR5 RAM and a 1TB Gen4 SSD, providing ample storage and swift data access. Its robust connectivity options include Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI ports. Weighing only 1.4 pounds and measuring 0.59 inches in thickness, it promises portability without compromising performance. Backed by a one-year warranty, it represents a solid investment for any professional.

Best For: Professionals seeking a lightweight, high-performance laptop ideal for business use and frequent travel.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel Core i7 processor and 32GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient workflow.
• Portable Design: Weighing only 1.4 pounds and measuring 0.59 inches thick, it is easy to carry without sacrificing performance.
• Excellent Display: The 14-inch WUXGA anti-glare touchscreen provides vibrant visuals, perfect for presentations and video conferencing.

Cons:

• Overheating Issues: Some users report overheating during heavy tasks, which may affect performance.
• Windows 11 Complexity: Mixed experiences with Windows 11 compared to other operating systems, like MAC OS, can be a learning curve for some users.
• Discrepancies in Features: Reports of inconsistencies regarding product features, such as touchscreen availability, may lead to confusion.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Laptops With DVD Drive

When you're choosing a laptop with a DVD drive, think about several key factors. You'll want to take into account storage capacity, portability, performance specs, display quality, and available connectivity features. Each of these elements can greatly impact your overall experience and satisfaction with the device.

Storage Capacity Options

Choosing a laptop with a DVD drive involves considering various storage capacity options that suit your needs. Laptops equipped with DVD drives typically offer additional storage through external media like DVDs and CDs, which can hold up to 4.7GB for single-layer discs and 8.5GB for dual-layer discs. This capability allows you to access and store data without relying solely on external devices, making it easier to manage your physical media collection.

When shopping, you'll find many laptops with internal storage capacities ranging from 128GB to 2TB SSDs. This range gives you the flexibility to choose the right amount of storage based on your requirements. If you need higher storage, combining an SSD with a DVD drive can enhance your data storage and retrieval options.

It's also worth noting that the presence of a DVD drive can affect a laptop's weight and thickness. While some models may offer robust storage capabilities, they might be bulkier due to their additional components. Consequently, consider how much storage you need and how it aligns with your preferences for portability and device size.

Portability and Weight

How important is portability to you when selecting a laptop with a DVD drive? If you value being able to easily carry your laptop, weight and dimensions are vital factors to take into account. Typically, laptops with DVD drives weigh 5 pounds or more, making them heavier than their lightweight counterparts, which usually fall between 2.5 to 4.5 pounds. This added bulk can make a significant difference, especially if you travel frequently.

Additionally, laptops with built-in DVD drives often have larger dimensions, which can impact how well they fit into bags or backpacks. If you're looking for a device that's easy to transport, you may find that many models sacrifice slim profiles for the sake of including an optical drive.

When making your decision, reflect on your daily mobility needs. If you frequently move from one location to another, a lighter, more compact laptop might be your best bet, even if it means compromising on the DVD drive. Ultimately, understanding how portability affects your usage will help you choose the right laptop for your lifestyle.

Performance Specifications

Finding the right balance between portability and performance is key, especially if you're considering a laptop with a DVD drive. Start by examining the processor speed and core count, as these factors directly affect your multitasking capabilities. Ideally, you should aim for a laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 for solid performance.

Next, look for at least 8GB of RAM to guarantee smooth operation while running multiple applications. Models with upgradeable RAM options can offer future-proofing, so you won't be stuck with outdated hardware.

When it comes to storage, opt for a solid-state drive (SSD) over a traditional hard disk drive (HDD). SSDs provide faster boot times and quicker application loading, making your experience more efficient. Keep in mind that the presence of a DVD drive may limit your overall storage capacity.

Additionally, verify your laptop supports the latest wireless standards like Wi-Fi 6 for peak internet speed, which is especially useful for streaming content. Finally, consider battery life; aim for a laptop that offers 5 to 10 hours of usage on a single charge for maximum portability.

Display Quality Considerations

When it comes to laptops with DVD drives, display quality greatly impacts your overall experience, especially for multimedia tasks. First, consider the display resolution; opting for a higher resolution like Full HD (1920×1080) or 4K (3840×2160) guarantees sharper images and enhanced detail, making your movies and graphics pop.

Next, pay attention to brightness levels. A display with at least 250 nits works well indoors, but if you often find yourself in brighter environments, go for 500 nits or more to keep visibility high.

Color accuracy is another crucial factor. Check the display's color gamut coverage, such as sRGB or DCI-P3; wider coverage means more vibrant, true-to-life colors, which is essential for graphic design and media consumption.

Additionally, think about an anti-glare coating. This feature helps reduce reflections, improving visibility in various lighting conditions. Finally, look at the refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate, like 120Hz, provides smoother motion, enhancing your gaming and video playback experience. By considering these factors, you'll choose a laptop that meets your display quality needs.

Connectivity Features Available

Connectivity features play an essential role in enhancing the functionality of laptops with DVD drives. When you're choosing the right laptop, consider the types and number of ports available. Look for USB 3.0, USB Type-C, and HDMI ports to guarantee versatility when connecting external devices.

It's also vital to confirm the laptop supports modern wireless standards like Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, as these will allow for seamless integration with other devices and peripherals. Multiple USB ports, including USB 2.0, give you compatibility with a wider range of accessories, which can be a game-changer for your productivity.

Additionally, having a built-in card reader is a handy feature, making it easy to access data from SD cards and other storage devices. Finally, don't overlook the importance of an Ethernet port. A wired connection can provide stable internet access, especially when you're streaming media or engaging in online activities that require consistent bandwidth. By paying attention to these connectivity features, you can greatly enhance your overall laptop experience while using a DVD drive.

Battery Life Expectations

Battery life is an essential factor to take into account for laptops equipped with DVD drives, as it can greatly influence your overall experience. When you're selecting a laptop, you'll notice that battery life can vary considerably. Some models offer up to 10 hours, while others may only provide about 5 hours under heavy use. The presence of a DVD drive often contributes to increased power consumption, especially during tasks that involve reading or writing discs.

If you frequently use DVDs, you'll want a laptop with a more robust battery capacity to guarantee it performs well during extended sessions. Keep in mind that many modern laptops are designed for portability, which can sometimes mean shorter battery life compared to bulkier models that include DVD drives.

Manufacturers usually list battery life estimates based on ideal conditions, but real-world usage often leads to lower performance, especially with optical drives in use. So, assess your specific usage patterns and consider how much battery life you'll realistically need. This way, you can choose a laptop that meets your demands without compromising on performance.

Price and Budget Factors

Choosing a laptop with a DVD drive often comes down to price and budget factors. Generally, laptops equipped with DVD drives are more affordable, often saving you between $100 to $300 compared to similar models without optical drives. This can be a significant factor if you're working within a tight budget.

However, keep in mind that having a DVD drive may affect the laptop's weight and thickness, which could impact portability. If you prioritize lightweight devices, this is something to take into account. Additionally, the inclusion of a DVD drive might limit your laptop's overall storage capacity, as space is allocated for the drive rather than additional SSD options. This can affect your long-term budget if you plan on upgrading.

Refurbished or older models with DVD drives can be particularly appealing, sometimes available for 30-50% less than new models. When evaluating your options, it's important to compare prices of models with and without DVD drives. This way, you can decide if the added functionality is worth any price differences based on your specific needs. Ultimately, balancing these factors will help you find the best laptop for your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are DVD Drives Becoming Obsolete in Modern Laptops?

Yes, DVD drives are becoming obsolete in modern laptops. Many users rely on digital downloads and streaming services instead, making physical media less necessary. You might find it challenging to find laptops with DVD drives soon.

Can I Upgrade a Laptop's DVD Drive Later?

If you bought a laptop like the Dell Inspiron, you might wonder about upgrading its DVD drive later. Yes, you can, but it often requires specific parts and might void your warranty.

How Do I Know if a Laptop Has a DVD Drive?

To know if a laptop has a DVD drive, check the specifications online or look for a physical tray on the side. You can also consult the manufacturer's website or ask a sales representative for confirmation.

What Are the Advantages of Having a DVD Drive?

Having a DVD drive lets you easily access physical media, so you can watch movies, install software, or back up data. It adds versatility to your laptop, making it a great option for multimedia enthusiasts.

Are External DVD Drives a Good Alternative?

External DVD drives are a great alternative if your device lacks an internal one. They're portable, versatile, and often more affordable. Plus, you can easily connect them to multiple devices whenever you need them.

Conclusion

In the quest for the perfect laptop, you've just unearthed a treasure trove of options, each boasting a DVD drive like a crown jewel! These devices aren't just laptops; they're gateways to nostalgia, bringing back the magic of movie nights and music mixes. Whether you're gaming, working, or binge-watching, these beauties have your back. So go ahead, grab one, and get ready to commence on an epic journey through technology and entertainment that'll leave you breathless!