In the embedded video you’ll see ahead, Alec Watson of Technology Connections does a wonderful job of reminding us how ...

We evaluated laptops with built-in CD drives based on optical drive reliability, overall system performance, and current market availability in new and refurbished channels. Our assessment considered ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Laptops with a physical CD/DVD drive feel like relics of the past. But they do still exist. And no, they are not necessarily weird, unknown ...

If you used or owned a laptop in the 2000s, you'd probably remember that it sported either a DVD or Blu-Ray drive for popping in installation discs, movies, and even the occasional album from your ...

IsoBuster is a highly specialized, easy-to-use optical media data recovery tool. The high-end program has the capability to use its ‘Retry’ mechanisms to aid you in getting the data back, even if ...

Optical drives are still practical for many users, whether to play old CDs and DVDs, install software, or create backups—especially with modern laptops, which are usually supplied without a drive.

These days, a movie night usually involves cuddling up on the couch, turning on Netflix, and picking another rom-com movie from its list of never-ending shows. However, before the age of streaming ...

For fixing Windows errors, we recommend Fortect: Fortect will identify and deploy the correct fix for your Windows errors. Follow the 3 easy steps to get rid of Windows errors: If the Eject option ...

Optical drives no longer come pre-installed in most PCs and laptops, yet they’re still indispensable for many users. Whether for playing old DVDs, installing ancient software from CDs, or burning data ...

You might think that CD players and DVD players have had their run, but as it turns out, they are absolute goldmines for DIY projects. Pop one open and you'll find stepper motors, laser assemblies, ...

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› By Arthur Gies Arthur Gies is an editor for Wirecutter's tech coverage. He's ...