10 Best Laptops With Cd/Dvd Drives in 2025 – Perfect for Media Lovers

In 2025, you'll discover an exciting range of laptops featuring CD/DVD drives, perfect for media lovers like you. Models like the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 and the Apple MacBook Air combine sleek designs with practical drive capabilities. The ASUS Zenbook Duo and ProArt P16 deliver impressive performance alongside multifunctionality. If you're into gaming, check out the MSI Katana A15 for its powerful specs. These machines balance portability and storage needs, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite physical media anytime. Stick around to explore specific models and features that make these laptops stand out!

Key Takeaways

• Look for laptops with internal CD/DVD drives to eliminate the need for external devices and enhance portability for media use.
• Prioritize models with robust performance specifications, such as at least 16GB RAM and dedicated graphics, for seamless media creation and playback.
• Ensure the laptop has multiple USB ports and HDMI connectivity for easy integration with other devices and media peripherals.
• Consider weight and thickness when selecting a laptop with an optical drive to maintain portability without sacrificing performance.
• Evaluate battery life; aim for laptops offering a minimum of 8 hours to support extended media usage without frequent charging.

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

The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 Laptop (CX3402CBA-DH386-WH) is ideally suited for users seeking a powerful yet portable device, particularly those who frequently require a reliable computing solution for everyday tasks. Featuring a 14-inch Full HD NanoEdge anti-glare display, it delivers vibrant visuals while minimizing distractions. Powered by an Intel® Core™ i3-1215U processor, the laptop boasts 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB of UFS storage, ensuring swift performance. With a lightweight design and a battery life of up to 10 hours, it is perfect for on-the-go professionals. Users will appreciate the versatile 180° lay-flat hinge and AI-enhanced features, which contribute to an overall seamless experience. Despite minor concerns regarding sound and Bluetooth, the CX34 remains a strong contender in the market.

Best For: Users seeking a powerful, portable laptop for everyday tasks, particularly on-the-go professionals.

Pros:

• Fast performance with an Intel® Core™ i3-1215U processor and 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM.
• Vibrant visuals from the 14-inch Full HD NanoEdge anti-glare display.
• Long battery life of up to 10 hours, ideal for travel and remote work.

Cons:

• Constant fan noise may be a distraction during quiet usage.
• Low sound from internal speakers can affect multimedia experiences.
• Mixed feedback on Bluetooth functionality and absence of USB 2.0 ports.

ASUS Zenbook Duo Laptop (UX8406MA-PS99T)

For professionals seeking a powerful and versatile laptop in 2025, the ASUS Zenbook Duo UX8406MA-PS99T stands out with its innovative dual 14" OLED touch displays. Featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor that reaches speeds of up to 5.10 GHz, and Intel Arc Graphics, this laptop guarantees exceptional performance for demanding tasks. It boasts 32GB LPDDR5x RAM and a 1TB SSD, providing ample storage and memory for multimedia projects. The device supports multiple modes, enhancing productivity with its dual screens. Weighing just 3.64 lbs and measuring 0.78" thick, it offers portability alongside durability, meeting US military standards. With a battery life of up to 13.5 hours, it is an ideal choice for on-the-go professionals.

Best For: Professionals who require a powerful, portable laptop with enhanced multitasking capabilities for demanding tasks.

Pros:

• Dual OLED touch displays provide versatile modes for improved productivity and multitasking.
• Lightweight and slim design makes it easy to carry, suitable for on-the-go usage.
• Long battery life of up to 13.5 hours allows for extended use without frequent recharging.

Cons:

• Some users reported screen durability issues, leading to concerns about long-term reliability.
• Customer service experiences have been mixed, with reports of slow response times during repairs.
• Occasional software quirks may require updates to resolve performance issues.

Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M3 chip

With its powerful M3 chip and impressive 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display, the Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop is an excellent choice for professionals and creatives seeking a balance of performance and portability. Featuring a resolution of 2880-by-1864 and support for 1 billion colors, this laptop delivers stunning visuals. The 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU guarantee seamless multitasking, making it ideal for applications such as Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365. Weighing less than 3.5 pounds and under half an inch thin, it's remarkably portable. With up to 18 hours of battery life and a six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio, it excels in both productivity and entertainment, making it a valuable investment for media lovers.

Best For: Professionals and creatives seeking a high-performance, portable laptop for productivity and entertainment.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with the M3 chip for seamless multitasking and demanding applications.
• Stunning 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display with vibrant colors and high resolution.
• Long battery life of up to 18 hours, making it ideal for on-the-go use.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to other laptops in the market.
• Limited upgrade options for memory and storage after initial purchase.
• Potential for exterior smudging, requiring regular cleaning to maintain appearance.

ASUS ProArt P16 Laptop with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX

Professionals in creative fields seeking high-performance computing will find the ASUS ProArt P16 Laptop exceptionally suitable, particularly due to its powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX processor. With a clock speed reaching up to 5.1GHz and 12 cores, this laptop handles demanding tasks with ease. Equipped with 32 GB DDR5 RAM and a 2 TB PCIe SSD, it offers ample memory and storage for large media files. The stunning 16-inch 4K display boasts a 400 nits brightness, providing vibrant visuals for design work. Complemented by NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics, the ProArt P16 excels in rendering and creative applications. Additionally, its robust connectivity options guarantee seamless integration with peripherals, making it an ideal choice for media enthusiasts.

Best For: Professionals in creative fields seeking high-performance computing and vibrant visuals for demanding tasks.

Pros:

• Powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX processor with a clock speed of up to 5.1GHz and 12 cores for efficient multitasking.
• Stunning 16-inch 4K display with 400 nits brightness, providing vibrant visuals ideal for design work.
• Robust connectivity options including multiple USB ports and an HDMI port, ensuring smooth integration with peripherals.

Cons:

• Heavier design at 9 pounds, which may be less portable for on-the-go professionals.
• Limited battery life compared to some ultrabooks, potentially requiring frequent charging during extensive use.
• Higher price point compared to entry-level laptops, which may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers.

MSI Katana A15 AI Gaming Laptop (B8VF-448US)

The MSI Katana A15 AI Gaming Laptop (B8VF-448US) stands out as an exceptional choice for gamers and creative professionals seeking robust performance in a sleek package. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 7-8845HS processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 with 8GB VRAM, it delivers impressive gaming performance, achieving 90-100 fps on demanding titles. The laptop features a 15.6" FHD display with a 144Hz refresh rate, enhancing the visual experience. With 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD (upgradable to 2TB), users can expect swift multitasking and ample storage. However, it has limitations, such as a battery life of around two hours under heavy use and reports of overheating. Overall, it's a compelling option for those prioritizing performance.

Best For: Gamers and creative professionals seeking high-performance computing in a compact design.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with AMD Ryzen 7-8845HS and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, providing excellent gaming and multitasking capabilities.
• High Refresh Rate Display: The 15.6" FHD screen with 144Hz refresh rate enhances the visual experience, making games and graphics more fluid.
• Upgradable Storage: Comes with 1TB NVMe SSD, with the option to upgrade to 2TB for additional storage needs.

Cons:

• Limited Battery Life: Approximately 2 hours of usage under heavy load, which may not be sufficient for extended gaming sessions.
• Overheating Issues: Reports of overheating can affect performance and user comfort during intensive tasks.
• Warranty Concerns: Some users have experienced issues with warranty claims and delays in repairs, leading to dissatisfaction.

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

Designed for gamers and power users alike, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 Laptop (2024 Model) stands out with its impressive Intel i9-14900HX processor, delivering exceptional performance through its advanced architecture. Equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card, this laptop guarantees stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. The 16-inch WQXGA display, featuring a resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a refresh rate of 240Hz, enhances the gaming experience while supporting HDR 400 and 100% DCI-P3 for vibrant colors.

With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB SSD, storage and multitasking capabilities are robust. Enhanced by Lenovo's AI Engine+ and a superior cooling system, the Legion Pro 7i is designed for all-day gaming performance, making it an ideal choice for media enthusiasts.

Best For: Gamers and power users seeking high-performance computing with stunning graphics and display quality.

Pros:

• High-performance hardware with an Intel i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 for optimal gaming experience.
• Vibrant 16-inch WQXGA display with a 240Hz refresh rate and HDR support for immersive visuals.
• Robust multitasking capabilities with 32GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB SSD storage.

Cons:

• Reported quality control issues, including abrupt shutdowns during gaming sessions.
• Heavy weight at 10.44 pounds, making it less portable compared to lighter laptops.
• Mixed customer reviews with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, indicating potential reliability concerns.

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 exceptional battery life of up to 18 hours, making it ideal for those who need to work or study on the go. Weighing just 2.7 pounds, this model features a stunning 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2560-by-1664 and over 500 nits brightness, offering vibrant visuals. Powered by the M2 chip, it boasts an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, ensuring smooth performance for multitasking and video editing. Additionally, the device supports a wide range of storage options and features a robust audio system, enhancing the overall user experience for media enthusiasts.

Best For: Users looking for a lightweight, powerful laptop with exceptional battery life for on-the-go work, study, and media consumption.

Pros:

• Exceptional battery life of up to 18 hours, perfect for extended use without needing a charge.
• Lightweight design at just 2.7 pounds, making it highly portable.
• Powerful M2 chip with 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, ideal for multitasking and video editing.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to some other laptops with similar specifications.
• Limited upgrade options for memory and storage after purchase.
• No option for discrete graphics, which may limit performance for high-end gaming or intensive graphics tasks.

Lenovo Yoga 9i AI Powered 2-in-1 Laptop

With its stunning 14.0 OLED 2.8K touchscreen display, the Lenovo Yoga 9i AI Powered 2-in-1 Laptop is an exceptional choice for professionals and creatives who demand both performance and visual fidelity. Powered by the 14th Gen Ultra 7-155H processor with 16 cores, it delivers extraordinary speed and efficiency, complemented by Intel Arc integrated graphics for superior visuals. The laptop features a generous 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, ensuring ample storage for media collections. Connectivity is robust with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. Its sleek Cosmic Blue design houses a backlit keyboard and an integrated webcam, while security is reinforced with a fingerprint system. The Yoga 9i runs on Windows 11 Pro, making it a versatile tool for any user.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who seek high performance and exceptional visual quality in a versatile 2-in-1 laptop.

Pros:

• Stunning 14.0 OLED 2.8K touchscreen provides vibrant colors and crisp details for an immersive viewing experience.
• Powerful 14th Gen Ultra processor with 16 cores ensures efficient multitasking and high-speed performance.
• Robust connectivity options with Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 support a range of peripherals and fast data transfer.

Cons:

• High price point may not be suitable for budget-conscious consumers.
• Integrated graphics may not meet the needs of gamers or users requiring high-end graphic performance.
• Single color option (Cosmic Blue) may not appeal to users looking for more customization in aesthetics.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Laptop (Gen 11)

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Laptop (Gen 11) stands out as an excellent choice for professionals seeking a lightweight yet powerful device, thanks to its impressive Intel Core i7-1365U vPro processor and 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM. This model features a 14-inch WUXGA touchscreen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, delivering vibrant visuals. With a weight of just 1.4 pounds and dimensions of 0.59 x 8.76 x 12.43 inches, it offers extraordinary portability. The laptop is built on the Intel Evo platform, ensuring enhanced performance and impressive battery life, making it ideal for on-the-go use. Additionally, it includes a robust set of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, facilitating seamless connectivity for various devices.

Best For: Professionals seeking a lightweight, powerful laptop for business use and frequent travel.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with Intel Core i7-1365U vPro processor and 32GB LPDDR5 RAM.
• Impressive battery life and portability, weighing only 1.4 pounds.
• High-quality touchscreen display with vibrant visuals and anti-glare properties.

Cons:

• Some users report overheating issues during intensive tasks.
• Mixed experiences with Windows 11's complexity compared to MAC OS.
• Discrepancies in product features, such as touchscreen availability, have been noted.

Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop (A315-24P-R7VH)

A standout feature of the Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop (A315-24P-R7VH) is its exceptional portability, making it an ideal choice for students and professionals on the go. Weighing just 3.92 pounds and featuring a thin design, it effortlessly fits into backpacks and briefcases. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display provides stunning visuals, complemented by narrow bezels that enhance the workspace. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core processor and 8GB LPDDR5 memory, this laptop handles multitasking and light gaming with ease. With an average battery life of 11 hours and upgradeable RAM and storage options, it guarantees reliable performance for everyday tasks. User feedback highlights its quality, making it a popular choice for families and basic home use.

Best For: The Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop (A315-24P-R7VH) is best for students and professionals seeking a portable, budget-friendly device for everyday tasks and light gaming.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable: Weighs only 3.92 pounds, making it easy to carry.
• Stunning display quality: 15.6-inch Full HD IPS screen with narrow bezels enhances visual experience.
• Upgradeable RAM and storage: Allows users to customize performance according to their needs.

Cons:

• Windows S Mode restrictions: Users may find limitations and prefer switching to full Windows for more flexibility.
• Limited gaming capabilities: While it can handle light gaming, it's not suitable for demanding games.
• Only 128GB storage by default: Users may need to invest in additional storage options for larger files and applications.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Laptops With CD DVD Drive

When choosing a laptop with a CD/DVD drive, you should consider several key factors. Drive type, portability, performance specifications, connectivity options, and software compatibility all play essential roles in making the right decision. By focusing on these aspects, you can find a device that meets your needs effectively.

Drive Type Considerations

Choosing the right drive type for your laptop can make a significant difference in your overall experience. You'll typically find two options: internal drives built into the laptop and external drives that connect via USB. Internal drives save space but add weight, while external drives are portable but require extra room and a power source.

Consider the read/write capability of the drive. If you plan to create media or back up data, look for a drive that can read and write to CDs and DVDs instead of just a read-only option. Speed ratings also matter; drives rated at 24x for CDs and 8x for DVDs can transfer data quicker, but higher speeds might compromise the quality of your burns.

Compatibility is essential, too. Make sure the drive supports the media formats you intend to use, like DVD-R or dual-layer DVDs. Finally, think about the physical size and weight of the drive. Internal drives can make a laptop bulkier, while external drives offer flexibility but may feel cumbersome if you're frequently on the go. Balancing these factors will help you find the perfect laptop for your media needs.

Portability and Weight

Considering portability and weight is vital when selecting a laptop with a CD/DVD drive. If you travel frequently or commute daily, the weight of your laptop can considerably impact your overall comfort. Many laptops with built-in optical drives tend to weigh between 4 to 6 pounds, which can be cumbersome, especially during long journeys. In contrast, ultraportable models often weigh less than 3.5 pounds, making them much easier to carry around.

Additionally, these laptops usually have a thicker profile due to the optical drive, which can affect how easily they fit into your backpack or briefcase. The extra bulk can lead to discomfort over extended periods, so it's essential to assess whether the convenience of having an optical drive outweighs the benefits of a lighter, more portable design.

Ultimately, you should consider how often you'll use the CD/DVD drive. If it's a must-have for you, be prepared to manage the trade-off between portability and the added weight of a laptop that includes one. Finding the right balance will guarantee you get a laptop that meets your media needs while remaining easy to transport.

Performance Specifications

Performance specifications play an essential role in your decision-making process when selecting a laptop with a CD/DVD drive. First, consider the processor type and speed; a higher clock speed and more cores can considerably enhance multitasking and overall efficiency. For smooth performance, aim for at least 8GB of RAM, but if you plan on running demanding applications, go for 16GB or more.

Next, think about storage type and size. SSDs (Solid State Drives) offer faster data access and boot times compared to traditional HDDs, with sizes ranging from 128GB to 2TB, depending on your needs. If you often work with graphics-intensive applications like gaming or video editing, check the graphics capabilities. A dedicated GPU is recommended for high-end tasks, while integrated graphics may suffice for everyday use.

Lastly, don't overlook display resolution and quality. Higher resolutions, such as Full HD or 4K, enhance visual clarity and provide more screen real estate for multitasking. By carefully evaluating these performance specifications, you can guarantee that your laptop meets your media-loving needs effectively.

Connectivity Options Available

When selecting a laptop with a CD/DVD drive, connectivity options are vital for maximizing its functionality. You should consider the available ports like USB, HDMI, and card readers to guarantee compatibility with your external devices and media. Look for laptops that feature USB 3.0 or USB Type-C ports, which allow for high-speed data transfer when connecting external optical drives or other peripherals.

Also, assess the presence of wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth. These features facilitate seamless integration with other devices and provide efficient internet access. It's imperative to evaluate the number of ports available; multiple USB ports enhance your flexibility in connecting various devices simultaneously, while HDMI ports enable easy connections to external displays.

Lastly, verify the laptop has a suitable power supply option, like a DC-in port, if it requires an external power source when using additional drives or peripherals. By paying attention to these connectivity options, you can enhance your overall experience and make the most out of your laptop with a CD/DVD drive.

Software Compatibility Factors

Selecting a laptop with a CD/DVD drive also means paying attention to software compatibility. If you work in an industry that relies on specialized software, you might still need a physical disc for installations and updates. Many older applications are distributed on CDs or DVDs, and having a drive guarantees you can access these legacy programs.

While most operating systems still support CD/DVD drives, newer software increasingly opts for cloud-based services or digital downloads. This shift can create compatibility issues, as some applications may require a physical disc to operate, making a CD/DVD drive essential for specific tasks.

Consider the file types you'll be working with. Large data backups or multimedia content often still come on physical discs, and retrieving or storing that information necessitates a drive.

Before making your choice, check whether the software you plan to use requires a CD/DVD for installation or operation. While digital distribution is on the rise, many users still benefit from the versatility a CD/DVD drive provides, especially when dealing with legacy software. So, weigh your software needs carefully when selecting your next laptop.

Battery Life Expectations

If you're considering a laptop with a CD/DVD drive, it's crucial to keep battery life in mind. Generally, these laptops tend to have shorter battery life compared to those without optical drives. This is mainly due to the extra power consumption when the drive is in use.

Battery life can vary considerably from one model to another. Some laptops may offer up to 18 hours of battery life for standard tasks, while others could drop to just 2-5 hours when the optical drive is engaged heavily. A typical expectation for laptops with CD/DVD drives is around 5-10 hours, depending on how intensively you use the drive.

Modern laptops often focus on slim designs and might omit CD/DVD drives entirely, which can enhance battery efficiency and longevity. So, before making a choice, consider how often you'll actually use the optical drive. If it's infrequent, opting for a laptop without one might boost your portability and battery performance considerably. Balancing your needs with these battery life expectations will help you find the right laptop for your media consumption.

Build Quality and Durability

Considering the importance of build quality and durability in your laptop choice, you'll want to confirm it can handle daily use without faltering. Opt for materials like aluminum or magnesium alloy, as they offer superior durability compared to plastic. This guarantees your laptop can withstand the usual wear and tear of life.

Look for laptops tested against military standards, specifically MIL-STD-810H. This certification indicates that the device can endure extreme conditions like temperature shifts, humidity, and shocks, making it ideal for varied environments. Don't overlook key components like hinges; they should be robust enough to handle repeated opening and closing without compromising the laptop's structure.

Portability is equally important, so find a balance between sturdiness and lightweight design—especially if you're frequently on the move. Finally, pay attention to design details. Features like reinforced corners and spill-resistant keyboards can greatly enhance your laptop's longevity, protecting it from accidents and daily mishaps. This way, you can enjoy your media without worrying about the wear and tear that often comes with regular use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do All Laptops With Cd/Dvd Drives Support Blu-Ray Discs?

Not all laptops with CD/DVD drives support Blu-ray discs. You'll need to check the laptop's specifications to see if it includes a Blu-ray drive, as many standard drives only read regular CDs and DVDs.

Can I Replace a DVD Drive With an SSD in These Laptops?

Yes, you can replace a DVD drive with an SSD in many laptops. Just verify your laptop supports this upgrade, and you'll enjoy faster performance and improved storage capacity without the bulk of an optical drive.

Are External Cd/Dvd Drives Compatible With Laptops Without Built-In Drives?

Yes, external CD/DVD drives are compatible with laptops that lack built-in drives. You just need to connect them via USB, and your laptop will recognize the drive, allowing you to read and write discs seamlessly.

What Formats Do the Cd/Dvd Drives in These Laptops Support?

The CD/DVD drives in these laptops typically support formats like CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and dual-layer DVDs. You'll enjoy flexibility when playing or burning various media and data types with them.

Is It Possible to Watch Movies From DVDS on These Laptops?

Yes, you can watch movies from DVDs on these laptops. Just insert the DVD, open your media player, and enjoy your favorite films. It'll be a great experience with crisp visuals and sound.

Conclusion

When you're on the hunt for a laptop with a CD/DVD drive, consider your needs like performance, portability, and budget. Each of the models we've highlighted offers unique features that cater to media lovers. Whether you're editing videos, enjoying classic movies, or simply need extra storage, there's a perfect match for you. Don't forget to weigh the factors that matter most, and you'll find the ideal laptop to enhance your multimedia experience. Happy shopping!