Looking for the best external dvd drive Mac computers are compatible with? We have a great selection of sleek, handy Mac-compatible DVD drives equipped with the latest features in DVD writing technology. Pretty much any USB DVD/CD drive will work with your Mac. I've used LG, HP and Toshiba portable DVD drives over the years. They were all marked for Windows only and they all worked flawlessly with my Macs, including Lightscribe features for the drives that supported it.
Need to read Mac drives in Windows?
Unfortunately, it’s not a straightforward process; you can’t just connect the Mac drive and expect it to work. Here’s everything you need to know to get it working.
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Why Can’t Windows Read Mac Drives?
Windows and macOS use different file systems. Windows uses the NTFS file system for its internal drives, whereas Apple replaced HFS+ with its successor--Apple File System (APFS)—in early 2017. Today, APFS is used on Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs.
External hard disks and USB drives are generally formatted with the Windows FAT32 file system for maximum compatibility. Most devices, including Macs, can read and write from FAT32 devices. There’s even a way to make a Mac read an NTFS driveWrite To Your NTFS Drives Again in OS X El Capitan (For Free)Write To Your NTFS Drives Again in OS X El Capitan (For Free)Some of the most common methods of adding NTFS support broke with the recent release of El Capitan, but you can still write to your Windows drives with a bit of tinkering.Read More.
All new Macs will be formatted with APFS. Older Mac drives may still be formatted with the HFS+ file system. Windows can’t read either file system by default.
We’ll show you how to access your Mac-formatted APFS or HFS+ drive on Windows.
How to Read APFS on Windows
Firstly, let’s look at how to read the newer Apple File System format on Windows. All these apps will allow you to read drives from any updated Apple device, not just Macs.
1. MacDrive
MacDrive has been one of the go-to apps for a long time. The first version was released way back in 1996. If you’re prepared to spend some money, you don’t need to look elsewhere.
The app works with APFS drives and HFS+ drives.
Unlike some of the options we’ll discuss later, MacDrive lets you read and write data to your Mac-formatted drive directly from Windows.
The app is focused around the freshly redesigned Disk Management Window. It acts as a hub for all the Mac drives connected to Windows.
Best Usb Drive For Mac
You will also be able to see your APFS or HFS+ drive directly within File Explorer, allowing easy integration with the rest of the Windows operating system.
Other useful features include the ability to create and partition Mac disks direct from your PC, a powerful disk repair feature, and robust security tools.
The standard version costs $49.99. There’s also a Pro version. It adds several extra features, including automatic file defragmentation, support for RAID setups, and a way to create Mac ISO files.
A five-day free trial is available.
Download:MacDrive ($49.99)
2. Paragon APFS for Windows
Paragon APFS for Windows is another paid app. It is the main competitor of MacDrive.
The app provides read and write access to APFS-formatted partitions, read and write access to compressed and cloned files, and read-only support for encrypted volumes.
It supports disk auto-mounting at start-up, but doesn’t have MacDrive’s partition tools.
MacDrive has one big advantage over Paragon’s app: HFS+ support. Paragon APFS for Windows only supports APFS-formatted drives. If you have some older Mac drives lying around that are still running HFS+, you would need to separately purchase Paragon HFS+ for Windows. MacDrive, therefore, is a more economical option.
One license—which costs $49.95—works on three Windows PCs.
Download:Paragon APFS for Windows ($49.95)
3. UFS Explorer Standard Access
Our third and final recommendation for reading APFS drives on Windows is UFS Explorer Standard Recovery. Once again, it’s a paid option. The app will cost you €21.95.
UFS Explorer Standard Recovery is the most versatile app on this list. It can read the two formats we care about—APFS and HFS+—as well as NTFS, FAT, FAT32, exFAT, SGI XFS, Linux JFS, Unix/BSD, UFS/UFS2, and VMware VMFS.
As such, this is the app you should choose if you find yourself hopping between lots of different operating systems during your day.
UFS Explorer Standard Recovery also comes with RAID support as standard. The app has a built-in RAID builder, so you can customize it for your array.
There is a free version of the app with no time limits, but it will only let you copy files smaller than 256KB in size.
Download: UFS Explorer Standard Access (€21.95)
How to Read HFS+ on Windows
If your Mac-formatted drive is still running HFS+, use one of these three methods instead.
1. Install Apple HFS+ Drivers
If you only need read access, you can install the Apple HFS+ drivers for Windows. Be sure to remove Paragon or MacDrive before proceeding.
Download the correct Windows driver package, then follow these steps:
The video above also demonstrates the process.
After restarting, your Mac-formatted drive should show up under This PC. This method only gives you read access to the drive. If you would like to edit or delete files, try one of the alternative methods below.
2. HFSExplorer
HFSExplorer is completely free. You can use it to access Mac file systems from Windows without paying a dime. The developer hasn’t updated it since October 2015 due to the arrival of APFS, but it still works on older systems.
HFSExplorer requires Java. We generally recommend against having Java installed, but it’s necessary here unless you want to spend money. You also need to run the app as an Admin.
This tool is simple to use. Connect your Mac-formatted drive to your Windows system, open HFSExplorer, and click File > Load File System From Device. HFSExplorer can automatically locate any connected devices with HFS+ file systems and open them. You can then extract files from the HFSExplorer window to your Windows drive.
Note that HFSExplorer is read-only, so you can’t modify or delete files on your Mac drive. It also doesn’t integrate with Windows File Explorer—files are available in the HFSExplorer application and you must copy them elsewhere.
Download: HFSExplorer (Free)
3. Paragon HFS+ for Windows
Paragon HFS+ for Windows is a paid application, but it distinguishes itself with additional features.
Unlike HFSExplorer, Paragon HFS+ for Windows provides full read/write access to Mac drives and promises high performance. It even integrates HFS+ file systems with Windows Explorer or File Explorer on Windows. Any Windows program can read from or write to the Mac drive.
The app costs $19.95, but it also offers a 10-day free trial. If you just need to recover files from a drive, 10 days is plenty of time to install this file system driver, copy your files over, and uninstall it.
Paragon HFS+ doesn’t need Java to work.
Download: Paragon HFS+ for Windows ($19.95)
Or Format the Mac Drive for Windows
If you have a Mac drive lying around and you no longer have a Mac, you’re not stuck with the Mac file system forever. After recovering the files from your drive with one of the tools above, you can then format the drive and convert it to a standard FAT32 partition that will work with most devices.
Formatting will erase all the files on your drive, so make sure you have backed up your files. To format the drive, just use the dialog that appears when you connect the drive to your computer.
Check out our guide to learn more about using FAT32How to Format a Large Hard Drive With FAT or FAT32How to Format a Large Hard Drive With FAT or FAT32The FAT and FAT32 formats support up to 16TB. Yet Windows sets a 32GB limit for formatting with FAT or FAT32. We'll show you how to format larger drives.Read More.
Explore more about: File System, Hard Drive, Mac Tips, USB Drive, Windows Tips.
Sometimes you need to plug several devices into USB ports but your computer or laptop has just a couple of them. Therefore, you need to use a small and portable USB hub with multiple USB ports as well as various memory cards. We have tested lots of USB hubs and shortlisted just 5 best of them!..Read more..Read less
Two types of power adapters - 12V / 5A for a stable data transfer. The unit runs well no matter how many devices you connect to it.
It requires connection to the mains to operate properly.
Since this hub connector uses an autonomous power source, it provides fast charging for your devices. Also, you can transfer the data at the highest rate possible.
detailed parameters
USB 3.0, compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1
Small plastic casing, 31.2-inch cord
10 х USB 3.0
LED status indicator lights
Windows, Mac OS X, Linux
Sleek, compact and convenient USB hub designed for being used with Apple computers and laptops. Multi-in-one card reader - you can insert the most types Excellent data transfer rate makes this device useful for connecting external hard drives.
This USB hub is not compatible with USB 1.1 interface, though it isn't a problem since 2.0 version is supported.
A stylish USB hub that shows the highest data transfer rate and includes a card reader. A really versatile device for home and professional use.
detailed parameters
USB 3.0
Compact and versatile, 12-inch cord
3 x USB 3.0
Multi-In-1 card reader
Windows, Mac, Linux
Velcro Strip allows you to attach a USB hub firmly to a table or desk your computer is on. Top data transfer rate: you can connect several external hard drives simultaneously. Cute Apple-style design turns this hub into a natural addition to a Mac.
Unstable if placed without a Velcro strip. Thus, make sure to attach it.
An excellent price-to-features ratio: a small and convenient device styled for Apple.
detailed parameters
USB 3.0, compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1
Durable aluminum casing, 15-inch cord
4 x USB 3.0 Available in a 7-port version
Velcro installation strip
Windows, Mac, Linux
Extremely compact and portable USB hub that takes little place in your laptop bag. This hub provides enough power for charging several phones. USB slots are far enough from each other, so plugging a couple of flash drivers simultaneously is easy.
No card reader which means you won't be able to transfer data to and from a memory card.
A good hub for people who travel a lot and need a small and lightweight device to easily fit any laptop bag.
detailed parameters
USB 2.0, compatible with USB 1.1
Portable and stylish, 4-inch cord
4 x USB 2.0 Available in a 7-port version
Includes an AC cable (3-foot) for additional power supply
Mac, Windows
UNITEK USB plug allows connecting a keyboard, mouse, Apple flash drives, and USB Type-C devices without the need to install any drivers. Supports 3 charging modes 5V / 1.5A, 12V / 2A or 20V / 2A.
This USB hub doesn't work with Mac OS 10.11.4.
This compact USB hub perfectly fits in your backpack or laptop bag to be always at hand. USB Type-C connector allows charging your devices while using all USB hub possibilities to the full.
detailed parameters
USB 3.0, compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1
Durable aluminum casing, 12-inch cord
2 х USB 3.0
Card reader supports cards of up to 2TB, Built-in surge protection
Windows, Mac, Linux, Android
Anker AK-68ANHUB-B10A USB3.0 SuperSpeedInterface and Data Transfer Rate
Anker 10-port USB hub connector provides a high-speed data transfer at a stunning speed of up to 5Gbps per second. This is possible due to the use of the cutting-edge USB 3.0 interface. As a result, copying movies to and from USB flash drives takes minutes! Also, this USB hub is great for transferring other large files from your computer as fast as possible. The hub can be connected to any desktop or laptop computer owing to its incredible versatility. Moreover, no software installation is required for this USB device.
Design and Size
This hub connector is a fairly portable USB device, yet it provides tremendous opportunities for connecting various peripheral devices. You will surely like its nice glossy plastic casing design. The hub weighs only 3.5 ounces and has the following dimensions: 5.7 x 1.7 x 0.87 inches. This allows you to carry it easily in your bag for your comfort, providing fast access to stored data wherever you go.
Number of Ports and Extras
Anker USB hub has as many as 10 USB 3.0 ports, which is ideal for connecting a large number of additional devices at the same time. This hub will certainly become indispensable for transferring your important data immediately from multiple USB flash drives. LED status indicator lights let you know whether your desktop or laptop PC recognized the devices connected through a USB hub. Furthermore, there is no need to install any extra drivers, so you may get down to work right away.
Number Of USB Ports
Anker AK-68ANHUB-B10A USB3.0 SuperSpeed: 10
Sabrent HB-MACR: 3
AnkerDirect 4-Port (AK-68ANHUB-02S4A): 4
Belkin USB 2.0 4-Port (F4U019vBLK): 4
UNITEK Charge USB 3.0 Type-C: 2
Size & Weight
This usb hub is not bulky like other hubs the size of this USB Hub is no bigger than your smart phone.so you can carry it anywhere.
Features
The charging port can charge a full-size tablet, no sweat. And all 9 USB 3.0 ports work perfectly too.
Sabrent HB-MACRInterface and Data Transfer Rate
Sabrent hub is a modern USB 3.0 interface hub with a high data transfer rate and a built-in memory card reader. Its data transfer rate reaches 5 Gbps, so this HUB saves your precious time and allows to exchange a lot of data in several minutes. It is a standard USB 3.0 hub, so it works on any operating system and any computer, except for some obsolete ones that support USB 1.1 version. This hub needs no special software to start using it, just plug in and go ahead.
Design and Size
Aluminium design of this hub makes it perfect for using with iMac, MacBook Air or Pro, and Mac mini. But do not feel embarrassed if you have an ordinary personal computer because this HUB will fit it perfectly! The dimensions of this HUB are as follows: 3.5 x 1.1 x 1.9 inches and it weighs 2.6 ounces. This best USB hub is very convenient for being used with a PC or iMac, because it has a rather long 12-inch cord.
Number of Ports and Extras
Sabrent has 3 unpowered USB 3.0 ports and supports CF, SD, SDXC, SDHC, MicroSD, MMC, M2 cards. Even if you plug in 3 USB devices and 3 memory cards simultaneously, it will not cause any lags in performance. The presence of memory card slots gives a great advantage for this USB hub comparing to its opponents.
Sabrent 3 Port USB 3.0 Hub ★REVIEW★
Width
Anker AK-68ANHUB-B10A USB3.0 SuperSpeed: 5.7 in.
Sabrent HB-MACR: 1.9 in.
AnkerDirect 4-Port (AK-68ANHUB-02S4A): 3.35 in.
Belkin USB 2.0 4-Port (F4U019vBLK): 0.4 in.
UNITEK Charge USB 3.0 Type-C: 2.2 in.
Size & Weight
Heavy Sturdy with rubber bottom
Features
Buy and enjoy. The 3.0 works great to. I love downloading gigabytes of files in minutes. Soooo much more pleasant than waiting.
AnkerDirect 4-Port (AK-68ANHUB-02S4A)Interface and Data Transfer Rate
This 3.0 USB model saves on syncing time and provides a huge data transfer rate of up to 5 Gbps, which is a lot faster than USB 2.0. However, no problem if you want to connect a device that supports USB 2.0 to this hub: it is compatible with 2.0 and 1.1 versions of USB interface. Therefore, this hub is a really versatile device that can be used with any devices and gadgets. No special software needed to be installed to use this hub.
Design and Size
Anker Portable Aluminium Hub is designed in an eye-catching Apple style and will surely fit your Mac computer or laptop. Surely, you can use this hub even if you have a PC or a laptop of any other brand. Aluminium finish of this compact hub makes the casing durable and the device will serve you for many years. Dimensions of a product are as follows: 3.4 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches, and the weight is 5.3 ounces. This Apple-style hub is convenient due to a long 15-inch cord, so you can connect it to the USB of your PC or iMac and put on the table. However, if you use a laptop, such a long cord will be a rather messy thing.
Number of Ports and Extras
AnkerDirect hub has four cutting-edge USB 3.0 ports. It has a notification indicator light that simplifies monitoring its performance. Unfortunately, no memory card is included, though it is a matter of need. In fact, four USB ports are enough for an average PC user who has no need to plug in dozens of gadgets simultaneously. As an addition, this hub is available in 3 more modifications, which are a 4-port wedge, a 7-port bar, and a 7-port 3.3 foot USB.
Anker USB 3.0 Bus-Powered 4-Port Aluminum Hub unboxing
Cord Lenght
Anker AK-68ANHUB-B10A USB3.0 SuperSpeed: 31.2 in.
Sabrent HB-MACR: 12 in.
AnkerDirect 4-Port (AK-68ANHUB-02S4A): 15 in.
Belkin USB 2.0 4-Port (F4U019vBLK): 4 in.
UNITEK Charge USB 3.0 Type-C: 12 in.
Features
The quality is great. It's made out of aluminium and feels really durable and has some good weight to it.
Size & Weight
The vertical USB ports are ideally placed, so that every size USB stick can be used without them fighting with each other for space.
Belkin USB 2.0 4-Port (F4U019vBLK)Interface and Data Transfer Rate
This model of Belkin USB hub is compatible with 2.0 and 1.1 versions of this interface. It means if you plug a device or a flash drive with USB 3.0, the data transfer rate will fall to the maximal level a 2.0 version provides. However, there are models of this hub that do support USB 3.0. No need to say, no software is required to use this USB hub.
Design and Size
That's a rectangular USB hub with a glossy black casing. Belkin USB hub is the smallest device in our shortlist, so it will attract people who prefer an active lifestyle or travel a lot. The minus of this design is that when you plug devices into all 4 ports, the whole set will spread all over the table. This hub is available in white color to suit your laptop or computer perfectly. The dimensions of the product are 7.6 x 0.4 x 2.1 inches, and its weight is only 1.1 ounces. This USB hub will be convenient for laptops since the cord length is just 4 inches, so you will find using it with a PC utterly uncomfortable.
Number of Ports and Extras
This product comes with four powered 2.0 USB ports. It charges most modern devices really fast. However, this device has no card reader which significantly limits its capabilities - you won't be able to connect an SD card from your camera, for example. Belkin USB hub has a power adapter, so it can charge the gadgets that require more power than a conventional USB provides (iPad, for example).
Depth
Anker AK-68ANHUB-B10A USB3.0 SuperSpeed: 0.9 in.
Sabrent HB-MACR: 1.1 in.
AnkerDirect 4-Port (AK-68ANHUB-02S4A): 1.06 in.
Belkin USB 2.0 4-Port (F4U019vBLK): 2.1 in.
UNITEK Charge USB 3.0 Type-C: 0.6 in.
Size & Weight
I bought this for it's small size to work with a project I am working on with my Raspberry Pi
Features
Ports are far enough that you can fit two reasonably wide USB drives next to each other.
UNITEK Charge USB 3.0 Type-CInterface and Data Transfer Rate
This high-end dual-port USB 3.0 hub provides a super-fast data transfer rate of up to 5 Gbps that is a lot faster than the outdated USB 2.0. This allows transferring larger amounts of data at a shorter length of time. Of course, it's still possible to use USB 2.0 interface, but the transfer rate will be lower than USB 3.0; USB 2.0 can read and write data as fast as 480 Mbps. UNITEK multi-functional high-quality USB hub will be highly appreciated by most advanced users.
External Cd Drive For MacDesign and Size
UNITEK USB hub has a durable dull aluminum casing, which provides extra protection against accidental drops and bumps, significantly extending its lifespan. This micro USB hub has a compact design with the following dimensions: 6 x 3.6 x 0.7 inches. Hence, the device can easily be carried around in your backpack or laptop bag and actually used for transferring data from one storage device to another.
Number of Ports and Extras
This 2 port USB 3.0 hub comes with a separate charging port that has a USB Type-C interface (USB 3.1 and Thunderbolt 3) and allows charging a variety of devices via the USB hub by plugging the device directly into the mains. Besides, this USB hub features a built-in surge protection that keeps all your data safe with a minimum risk of their accidental deletion. A card reader supports SD cards with the capacity of up to 2 TB. This makes it suitable for transferring data from flash drives used in cameras and smartphones.
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Weight
Anker AK-68ANHUB-B10A USB3.0 SuperSpeed: 3.86 oz.
Sabrent HB-MACR: 5 oz.
AnkerDirect 4-Port (AK-68ANHUB-02S4A): 2.28 oz.
Belkin USB 2.0 4-Port (F4U019vBLK): 1.12 oz.
UNITEK Charge USB 3.0 Type-C: 0.32 oz.
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Size & Weight
This USB hub works great, and looks nice as well. The 3 ports on the front are convenient for devices you want to swap out, and then there is a port on the back for a more permanent device.
Features
Anti skid rubber on the bottom prevents slipping and sliding
What is a Usb Hub
USB data transfer technology is literally a backbone of modern electronics. And when there aren’t enough free ports, USB hubs are used. A hub is a small splitter with multiple USB and (optionally) memory card slots. Any USB hub itself is plugged into a USB port of your device (PC, Mac, laptop, etc.). Thanks to USB hubs, you can upload photos from your camera, charge your iPod, and download a movie from an online store right to an external hard drive.
Is your task to neatly organize several gadgets in one place? The solution is clear — you need a charging station!
What Features to Compare
Interface and Data Transfer Rate
The first issue to consider is the interface supported by every USB hub. For example, all modern computers and laptops have USB 3.0 support and this type of interface is several times faster than USB 2.0, let alone older versions (1.0, for example). That’s why don’t forget to check what the supported USB version is. The interface is closely tied to a data transfer rate it provides. If you need to connect several external disk drives, for example, you need a USB hub with a high data transfer rate.
Design and Size
Best External Cd Drive For Mac And Windows
Of course, a design itself has no impact on quality of each USB hub. However, design is important, since a hub is always near your computer or laptop, it has to be stylish. No need to say, a hub has to be convenient - all the surface must be used reasonably. Make sure to choose the right size - if you travel a lot and carry a hub with you, choose a smaller one. Whereas a USB hub for home use can be of any size. There is another major feature that you need to pay attention to - cord length. As we've already mentioned, every hub connects to a computer or laptop via a USB cord, so the longer the cord is, the more convenient it will be to use it with a PC, whereas a shorter cord will be perfect for a laptop. Buying a USB hub with a short cord for using with a PC makes no sense - it will be very uncomfortable for you to lean and plug in and out the devices and flash drives. However, it isn't a problem if a main unit of your PC is tabletop.
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Number of Ports and Extras
The next important criterion is the number of USB ports in a hub. No need to say, it’s different - some hubs have just 4 of them (which means 4 devices can be plugged in), whereas others have up to 8 USB ports. Don’t forget to check all extras every USB hub has. For example, a really versatile hub has the slots for memory cards (like SD, microSD, etc.), so you don’t need to buy a card reader. Extras are particularly important if you use a PC - it’s very uncomfortable to lean down and insert them into a computer tower. Also, some USB hubs are connected to a power source so that you can charge or provide sufficient power to several devices (like external hard drives or cell phones) simultaneously.
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