10 Best Laptops With Optical Drives for 2025 – Reliable and Ready for Any Task

When you're on the hunt for the best laptops with optical drives in 2025, reliability and performance matter. The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 offers a solid Intel i3 processor, while the lightweight Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon excels in portability. For versatility, check out the Lenovo Yoga 9i with its 2-in-1 design. Apple's 2024 MacBook Air boasts impressive battery life with an M3 chip. Plus, gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i. Each of these options combines an optical drive with modern features, making them ready for any task. Stick around to find out more about these impressive machines!

Key Takeaways

• Look for laptops featuring Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processors for enhanced multitasking capabilities and reliable performance in various tasks.
• Ensure at least 8GB RAM for everyday use, but opt for 16GB or more for heavy multitasking and demanding applications.
• Consider solid-state drives (SSDs) for faster data access compared to traditional hard drives, significantly improving overall system responsiveness.
• Prioritize models with multiple USB ports and optical drive compatibility to maintain versatility in connecting various devices and media formats.
• Evaluate battery life, as laptops with optical drives generally have reduced efficiency; aim for models with 10+ hours for reliable on-the-go use.

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

The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 Laptop (CX3402CBA-DH386-WH) is an excellent choice for users seeking a portable and efficient device with robust performance capabilities. Featuring a 14-inch Full HD NanoEdge anti-glare display, it guarantees vibrant visuals while minimizing reflections. Powered by the Intel® Core™ i3-1215U processor, this laptop delivers impressive speeds, with 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB UFS storage providing ample memory and space for multitasking. Weighing just 5.14 pounds and measuring compactly, it is designed for on-the-go usage. Battery life extends up to 10 hours, making it ideal for long workdays. Enhanced by AI-powered features and a versatile 180° lay-flat hinge, the CX34 caters to diverse user needs effectively.

Best For: Users seeking a lightweight and portable laptop with excellent performance and battery life for daily tasks and multitasking.

Pros:

• Fast performance with Intel® Core™ i3-1215U processor and 8GB of RAM, enabling smooth multitasking.
• Long battery life of up to 10 hours, ideal for users on the go.
• Versatile design featuring a 180° lay-flat hinge and a vibrant 14-inch Full HD display.

Cons:

• Constant fan noise may be distracting during use.
• Low sound quality from internal speakers could affect media consumption.
• Mixed feedback on Bluetooth functionality and absence of USB 2.0 ports may limit connectivity options.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Laptop (Gen 11)

Designed with professionals in mind, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Laptop (Gen 11) stands out for its exceptional lightweight build and powerful specifications, making it an ideal choice for business users who require portability without sacrificing performance. Featuring the Intel Core i7-1365U vPro processor and 32GB LPDDR5 RAM, this laptop guarantees seamless multitasking. Its 14-inch WUXGA touchscreen displays vibrant visuals at 1920 x 1080 resolution. Weighing just 1.4 pounds and measuring 0.59 inches in thickness, it offers remarkable portability. The robust battery life and Intel Evo platform enhance productivity on the go. With a one-year limited warranty and premium support options, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon (Gen 11) is a reliable investment for discerning professionals.

Best For: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Laptop (Gen 11) is best for business professionals seeking a lightweight, high-performance laptop for enhanced productivity on the go.

Pros:

• Exceptional portability with a weight of just 1.4 pounds and a slim design.
• Powerful performance featuring an Intel Core i7 processor and 32GB of RAM for seamless multitasking.
• Excellent battery life allowing for extended use without frequent recharging.

Cons:

• Potential overheating issues during heavy tasks may affect performance.
• Mixed user experiences with Windows 11's complexity compared to other operating systems.
• Discrepancies in product features, such as touchscreen availability, reported by some users.

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

Lenovo Yoga 9i AI Powered 2-in-1 Laptop stands out as an exceptional choice for professionals and creatives seeking versatility and high performance in a compact form factor. Featuring a stunning 14.0 OLED 2.8K touchscreen display with a 120Hz refresh rate, it delivers vibrant visuals and responsive interaction. Powered by the 14th Gen Ultra 7-155H processor and 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, it guarantees seamless multitasking capabilities. The 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD provides ample storage, while connectivity options such as two Thunderbolt 4 ports and Wi-Fi 6E keep you connected. Additional features include a backlit keyboard, integrated webcam, and fingerprint security system. With Windows 11 Pro and an innovative design in Cosmic Blue, the Yoga 9i is both stylish and functional.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who need a high-performance, versatile laptop for multitasking and portable use.

Pros:

• Stunning 14.0 OLED 2.8K touchscreen display with a high refresh rate for vibrant visuals.
• Powerful 14th Gen Ultra 7-155H processor and 16GB LPDDR5X RAM for seamless multitasking.
• Ample storage with a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD and multiple connectivity options including Thunderbolt 4.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to standard laptops.
• Limited upgradeability due to compact design.
• May require additional accessories for certain connectivity needs.

Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M3 Chip

For professionals seeking a powerful and portable computing solution, the Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M3 chip stands out with its remarkable 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display, delivering stunning visuals at a resolution of 2880-by-1864 pixels. Powered by the Apple M3 chip, this laptop features an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, ensuring exceptional performance for multitasking and demanding applications. With 24GB of Unified Memory and a 512GB SSD (upgradable to 2TB), it accommodates various professional needs. Its lightweight design, measuring under half an inch in thickness, enhances portability. Boasting up to 18 hours of battery life and a six-speaker system with Spatial Audio, this MacBook Air is ideal for video editing, music production, and everyday productivity tasks.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who require a powerful, portable laptop for multitasking and demanding applications.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with the Apple M3 chip, featuring an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU.
• Stunning 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display with high resolution and support for 1 billion colors.
• Impressive battery life of up to 18 hours, making it ideal for on-the-go use.

Cons:

• Considered expensive compared to other laptops in the market.
• Limited port options, with only two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and a headphone jack.
• Potential for smudging on the exterior, requiring regular cleaning to maintain appearance.

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

Gaming enthusiasts seeking a powerful and immersive experience will find the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 Laptop (2024 Model) to be an exceptional choice. Featuring a cutting-edge Intel i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics, this laptop is engineered for peak performance, ensuring smooth gameplay across demanding titles. The 16-inch WQXGA display, with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a 240Hz refresh rate, delivers stunning visuals and responsiveness. Enhanced by Lenovo's AI Tuning and an advanced cooling system, it maintains ideal performance during intense gaming sessions. With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a generous 2TB SSD, users can expect lightning-fast load times and ample storage. However, potential buyers should consider reported quality control issues before purchase.

Best For: Gaming enthusiasts and professionals who demand high performance and stunning visuals in a portable laptop.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics for seamless gaming.
• High-Quality Display: 16-inch WQXGA display with a 240Hz refresh rate provides exceptional visuals and responsiveness.
• Ample Storage and Memory: Features 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB SSD for fast load times and extensive game storage.

Cons:

• Quality Control Issues: Some users report problems with the laptop's reliability, including unexpected shutdowns during gaming.
• Weight: At 10.44 pounds, it may be less portable compared to lighter gaming laptops.
• Limited Customer Ratings: With a 3.5 out of 5-star rating, it may not meet the expectations of all users.

ASUS Zenbook 14 Business Laptop (2024)

The ASUS Zenbook 14 UM3406HA Business Laptop (2024) stands out as an ideal 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, it guarantees vibrant visuals and superior color accuracy. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCI-E NVMe SSD, this laptop delivers exceptional performance for multitasking and demanding applications. Weighing just 2.82 lbs, its sleek dimensions make it highly portable. Connectivity options include USB 4.0, HDMI v2.1, and Wi-Fi 6E. With an impressive battery life of up to 8 hours, the Zenbook 14 is a reliable companion for any business professional.

Best For: Professionals seeking a powerful and portable laptop with high performance and excellent display quality.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable design at just 2.82 lbs, making it easy to carry for on-the-go use.
• High-performance hardware including an AMD Ryzen 7 processor and 16GB RAM, suitable for multitasking and demanding applications.
• Vibrant touchscreen display with 500 nits brightness and 100% DCI-P3 color accuracy for exceptional visual quality.

Cons:

• Limited battery life of up to 8 hours may require frequent charging during long workdays.
• No dedicated graphics card, which could limit performance for graphics-intensive tasks.
• Potentially higher price point compared to other laptops with similar specifications, which may not fit every budget.

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

A standout feature of the Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop (A315-24P-R7VH) is its impressive battery life, averaging 11 hours, making it an excellent choice for students and professionals who require a reliable device for extended use throughout the day. The laptop boasts a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, ensuring vibrant visuals. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core processor and 8GB LPDDR5 memory, it efficiently handles multitasking and everyday tasks. Additionally, the 128GB NVMe SSD guarantees quick boot times and expandable storage options. With Wi-Fi 6 support, an HD front-facing camera, and Acer PurifiedVoice technology, this laptop is not only portable but also optimized for communication and performance.

Best For: The Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop (A315-24P-R7VH) is best for students and professionals who need a reliable, portable device for everyday tasks and extended use.

Pros:

• Impressive battery life averaging 11 hours, perfect for all-day usage.
• High-quality Full HD IPS display offers vibrant visuals and a great viewing experience.
• Expandable RAM and storage options allow for customization and improved performance.

Cons:

• Limited by Windows S Mode, which may restrict software installation and usage.
• Lower graphics capability may not support demanding gaming or heavy graphic design tasks.
• Only 128GB of storage out of the box, which may be insufficient for users with extensive file storage needs.

ASUS Zenbook Duo Laptop (UX8406MA-PS99T)

For professionals seeking enhanced multitasking capabilities, the ASUS Zenbook Duo (UX8406MA-PS99T) stands out with its innovative dual 14" OLED 3K touch displays. Powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor and equipped with 32GB LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB SSD, this laptop guarantees robust performance for demanding tasks. Its versatility is amplified through various operating modes, including Dual Screen and Laptop Mode, facilitating seamless multitasking. The device runs on Windows 11 and features Intel Arc Graphics, enhancing visual experiences. With a weight of only 3.64 lbs and a thickness of 0.78", it is designed for portability. Despite some customer service challenges, user feedback highlights significant productivity improvements attributable to its unique dual-screen design.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who require enhanced multitasking capabilities and robust performance in a portable design.

Pros:

• Dual 14" OLED displays provide exceptional multitasking and visual clarity, boosting productivity.
• Lightweight and portable design at 3.64 lbs with a slim profile of 0.78" makes it easy to carry on the go.
• Fast-charging technology and impressive battery life of up to 13.5 hours ensure long-lasting use without frequent recharging.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with screen durability, leading to concerns about long-term reliability.
• Customer service experiences have been mixed, with reports of slow responses during repair processes.
• Occasional software quirks may require updates to resolve, impacting user experience initially.

Acer Nitro V Gaming Laptop (ANV15-51-51H9)

Designed with gamers in mind, the Acer Nitro V Gaming Laptop (ANV15-51-51H9) stands out due to its powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card, enabling immersive gameplay and stunning visuals at high settings. Powered by an Intel Core i5-13420H processor and featuring a 15.6" FHD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate, this laptop delivers impressive performance and fluid graphics, reaching up to 128FPS during gaming sessions. The dual cooling fans guarantee peak performance, preventing overheating during extended use. With 8GB DDR5 memory and a 512GB Gen 4 SSD, users can expect swift load times, though upgrading RAM is advisable for more demanding tasks. Priced around $1000, it offers excellent value for entry-level gamers and students alike.

Best For: The Acer Nitro V Gaming Laptop is best for entry-level gamers and students seeking a versatile laptop for gaming and academic use.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 for impressive graphics and smooth gameplay.
• Effective Cooling System: Dual fans help prevent overheating during extended gaming sessions.
• Great Value: Priced around $1000, offering excellent features for the price, including a Thunderbolt port.

Cons:

• Limited RAM: The default 8GB RAM may be insufficient for demanding tasks, necessitating an upgrade.
• Short Battery Life: Approximately 1.5 hours during gaming, which is best used while plugged in.
• Warranty Concerns: Accessing internal components for upgrades could void the warranty.

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

Gamers and professionals seeking a powerful yet versatile laptop will find the MSI Katana A15 AI Gaming Laptop (B8VF-448US) to be an excellent choice. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7-8845HS processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card, it delivers exceptional gaming performance at high settings, achieving 90-100 fps in demanding titles. With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD, upgradable to 2TB, multitasking and storage are seamless. The 15.6" FHD display with a 144Hz refresh rate guarantees fluid visuals. Despite its effective cooling system, users report battery life challenges and occasional overheating. Significantly, AI capabilities enhance user interaction, making this laptop a top contender for both gaming and professional applications.

Best For: Gamers and professionals looking for a high-performance laptop that excels in gaming and multitasking capabilities.

Pros:

• Exceptional gaming performance with high frame rates in demanding titles thanks to powerful hardware.
• Ample RAM and storage options, allowing for seamless multitasking and upgrade flexibility.
• Advanced AI features enhance user interaction and optimize performance based on usage patterns.

Cons:

• Limited battery life under heavy use, which may hinder portability.
• Reports of overheating and performance drops when unplugged, affecting user experience.
• Warranty issues and repair delays reported by some users, raising concerns about reliability.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Laptops With Optical Drive

When you're choosing a laptop with an optical drive, consider how portability and weight fit into your lifestyle. You'll also want to think about storage capacity and speed, as well as battery life and overall performance. Don't forget to check the connectivity options to guarantee it meets your needs.

Portability and Weight Considerations

Choosing a laptop with an optical drive often means dealing with added weight and bulk. Typically, these laptops weigh over 5 pounds, making them less portable compared to lighter models that forgo the drive. The inclusion of an optical drive can also increase the laptop's thickness, often adding an extra half-inch or more to its profile. If you're someone who frequently travels or carries your laptop around, this added weight and bulk can be a significant drawback.

While optical drives offer valuable media playback and burning capabilities, they contribute to a larger footprint that may limit your storage options and ease of transport. Many modern laptops prioritize slim designs and portability, opting to eliminate optical drives altogether to enhance battery efficiency and reduce weight. If you value portability, you'll need to evaluate the benefits of having an optical drive against the convenience of a lighter, slimmer device.

Ultimately, if you choose a laptop with an optical drive, be prepared for the trade-offs regarding portability. It's crucial to reflect on how often you'll be moving your laptop and whether the added features justify the extra weight and bulk.

Storage Capacity and Speed

For those in need of extra storage options, laptops with optical drives can be a valuable asset. These drives allow you to use CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs for data storage and backups, giving you flexible choices based on your needs. While the read and write speeds of optical drives are slower compared to modern solid-state drives, they can still serve your purpose, especially when accessing legacy software or media not available digitally.

Standard DVD drives typically offer read speeds averaging around 11 MB/s and write speeds of about 4.5 MB/s. Although this isn't as fast as the up to 5000 MB/s you might get with NVMe SSDs, optical drives provide a reliable means of data transfer for specific applications.

The storage capacity of optical media also varies greatly. CDs can hold up to 700 MB, DVDs can store up to 4.7 GB (single-layer), and Blu-ray discs can range from 25 GB (single-layer) to 50 GB (dual-layer). This variety allows you to select the right medium for your storage needs, ensuring you have enough space for your important files and backups.

Battery Life Expectations

Battery life is an essential factor to take into account with laptops that come equipped with optical drives. Typically, you can expect battery life to range from 8 to 18 hours, depending on how you use your laptop, the screen size, and the power settings. Keep in mind that laptops with higher performance specifications or dedicated graphics cards often have shorter battery life due to increased power consumption during demanding tasks.

When you're using an optical drive, it can further diminish battery efficiency, as it draws additional power during operation. If you're serious about maximizing battery life, consider utilizing energy-saving features and lowering your screen brightness. Some users report improvements of up to 30% under optimized conditions. However, remember to evaluate real-world usage scenarios. Tasks like streaming video or gaming can greatly reduce your battery life, sometimes dropping it to as low as 1.5 to 5 hours.

Ultimately, finding a balance between performance and battery life is vital, especially if you plan to rely on your laptop for extended periods away from a power source.

Performance and Processing Power

When looking for a laptop with an optical drive, performance and processing power are vital factors to keep in mind. The processor plays a key role here; opting for higher-tier models like Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 will greatly enhance your multitasking capabilities compared to entry-level processors such as Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3.

Additionally, consider the RAM size. For heavy multitasking, 16GB is recommended, while 8GB is typically enough for everyday tasks. The type of storage also matters; solid-state drives (SSDs) offer faster data access and boot times than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). If you want top performance, look for NVMe SSDs, as they provide the fastest speeds available.

If you plan on engaging in graphics-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing, integrated graphics might not cut it. Instead, choose laptops with dedicated graphics cards from NVIDIA or AMD for improved performance. Finally, if you're a gamer, consider laptops with higher refresh rates, like 144Hz or 240Hz, for smoother visuals, though these require more powerful processors and graphics solutions to maximize performance.

Connectivity and Port Options

Choosing the right laptop with an optical drive goes beyond just performance; connectivity and port options are equally important. Start by checking the number and types of ports available, such as USB, HDMI, and Thunderbolt. You want to guarantee compatibility with all your devices and accessories. Keep in mind that the inclusion of an optical drive can limit the number of USB ports due to the space it occupies in the laptop's design.

Also, verify the optical drive supports the formats you plan to use—like DVD±R/RW, CD-R/W, or Blu-ray—as compatibility can vary greatly. Don't overlook wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6 or Bluetooth 5.3, which can enhance your overall experience when using the optical drive for media playback or data transfers.

Lastly, consider the impact of the optical drive on the laptop's weight and thickness. If portability is a priority for you, make certain these factors align with your needs. By paying attention to these connectivity aspects, you'll find a laptop that not only performs well but also seamlessly fits into your digital lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Optical Drives Still Relevant in Modern Laptops?

Optical drives aren't as relevant today since most media is digital. However, if you frequently use CDs, DVDs, or Blu-rays, you might find them necessary. Consider your needs before deciding on a laptop.

How Do I Know if a Laptop Has an Optical Drive?

To find out if a laptop has an optical drive, check the product specifications online or look for the drive's physical presence on the laptop. You can also ask the retailer directly for confirmation.

Can I Upgrade a Laptop to Include an Optical Drive?

Upgrading a laptop to include an optical drive is like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole; it's often impractical. Instead, consider external drives or newer models with built-in options for convenience.

What Types of Discs Can Optical Drives Read and Write?

Optical drives can read and write various types of discs, including CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. You can store data, play music, or watch movies, making them versatile tools for your multimedia needs.

Are External Optical Drives a Good Alternative for Laptops?

External optical drives are a great alternative for laptops. They're portable, affordable, and let you read or write discs without the need for built-in drives. Plus, they easily connect via USB, making them convenient for you.

Conclusion

So there you have it—your ticket to the nostalgia of spinning discs in a world of streaming! While you might think you're living in a bygone era, these laptops with optical drives are ready to transport you back to when "burning a CD" was a cool weekend project. Sure, the cloud can hold your files, but nothing beats that satisfying click of a drive loading a movie. Embrace the retro while staying tech-savvy—who needs a time machine when you've got these beauties?