Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad
AMD Athlon 7120U Processor
External DVD Player Bundle
15.6 inch HD Display
In this guide
Finding a laptop with a built-in or external DVD drive is essential for many professionals and students who still rely on physical media for data transfer and software installation.
We evaluated ten reliable models based on performance, display quality, connectivity, and value. Each option includes an optical drive or compatible accessory to ensure you can read and burn discs effortlessly.
Each pick highlights key specs and real-world usability. Note that prices and availability may change frequently, so verify current offers before making your final purchasing decision online.
Top 3 Picks for Best Laptop with DVD Drive
HP 17.3 Business Laptop
4.5Editor score
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U Processor
17.3 inch FHD IPS Display
External CD/DVD Drive Included
HP 17.3 Laptop Computer
4.1Editor score
Intel Core i3-N305 Processor
32GB RAM and 1TB SSD
External DVD Drive Support
Top 10 Best Laptop with DVD Drive in 2026 Compared
The following table compares all ten selected laptops side by side. Look closely at processor speed, memory capacity, storage type, and included optical drive options to find your ideal match.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
HP 17.3 Business Laptop
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
16GB RAM
512GB SSD
External CD/DVD Drive
4.5Editor score
Editor's Choice
Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad
AMD Athlon 7120U
4GB DDR5 RAM
128GB SSD
External DVD Player
Best Premium
HP 17.3 FHD Laptop
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
16GB RAM
512GB SSD
External CD/DVD Drive
3.9Editor score
HP 17.3 Laptop Computer
Intel Core i3-N305
32GB RAM
1TB SSD
External DVD Drive
4.1Editor score
HP 17.3 FHD Laptop
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
64GB RAM
2TB SSD
External DVD Drive
HP 17 Laptop Computer
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
16GB RAM
512GB SSD
External CD/DVD Drive
4.0Editor score
Dell Latitude E6530
Intel Core i7-3520M
8GB RAM
240GB SSD
Built-in DVD Drive
3.5Editor score
DELL Latitude D531
AMD Turion X2 TL-56
2GB RAM
80GB Hard Drive
DVD/CDRW Optical Drive
3.5Editor score
Dell Latitude E6520
Intel Core i7-2620M
8GB DDR3 RAM
500GB Hard Drive
Built-in DVD Drive
3.8Editor score
Lenovo IdeaPad 15.6
AMD A9-9425 Dual-Core
4GB RAM
128GB SSD
DVD+/-RW Drive
4.2Editor score
1. HP 17.3 Business Laptop – Best Overall Laptop with DVD Drive
HP 17.3 Business Laptop
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
16GB RAM
512GB SSD
External Optical Drive
This HP 17.3 Business Laptop stands out as a top choice for those needing an optical drive alongside modern performance. With a 4.5 rating from users, it offers a balanced mix of speed and convenience.
Pros
- Large FHD anti-glare display
- Pre-installed Office Pro license
- Strong multimedia performance
- Complete accessory bundle
- Fast Wi-Fi 6 support
Cons
- External drive adds bulk
- Battery life not specified
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Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor and 16GB RAM, it handles business presentations and graphic design smoothly. The external CD/DVD drive ensures you can access legacy media without hassle.
While the external drive requires an extra USB port and space, the convenience outweighs the trade-off for many users. The anti-glare display further enhances comfort during long work sessions.
Ideal for professionals and students needing reliable legacy media access, this laptop delivers exceptional value. We recommend it for anyone prioritizing versatility and productivity in a single package.
Superior Display Experience
The 17.3 inch FHD IPS screen provides vibrant visuals with anti-glare protection for comfortable viewing in any lighting.
Ready for Work
Comes with lifetime Microsoft Office Pro and Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, ensuring immediate productivity upon unboxing.
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2. Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad – Best Budget Laptop with DVD Drive
Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad
AMD Athlon 7120U
4GB DDR5 RAM
128GB SSD
External DVD Player
The Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad is a budget-friendly option that includes an external DVD player and essential accessories. It is designed for basic home and work tasks without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Includes 500GB storage
- Full numeric keypad
- Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- Simple setup process
Cons
- Lower resolution display
- Limited RAM for heavy tasks
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Powered by an AMD Athlon 7120U and 4GB DDR5 RAM, it provides decent speed for web browsing and document editing. The bundled storage and cleaning kit add practical value.
The HD display and limited RAM may not suit demanding users, but for everyday computing, it remains a solid choice. The numeric keypad is a helpful feature for data entry.
Recommended for budget-conscious buyers needing optical drive access, this laptop offers essential tools for productivity. It is a great starting point for students or light users.
Essential Storage Solutions
Includes a 500GB external storage drive alongside internal SSD for flexible file management and backups.
Typing Comfort
Features a full-size keyboard with a dedicated numeric keypad, ideal for spreadsheets and report writing.
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3. HP 17.3 Laptop Computer – Best Premium Laptop with DVD Drive
HP 17.3 Laptop Computer
Intel Core i3-N305
32GB RAM
1TB SSD
External DVD Drive
This HP 17.3 Laptop Computer offers premium specs like 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD, ideal for multitasking professionals. It supports external DVD drives for physical media compatibility.
Pros
- High RAM and storage capacity
- Windows 11 Pro features
- Copilot AI integration
- Physical camera shutter
- Multi-port connectivity
Cons
- Intel i3 processor limits heavy load
- Premium price for mid-tier specs
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The Intel Core i3-N305 processor ensures smooth performance for school and business apps. Windows 11 Pro brings advanced security and virtualization tools to the table.
While the processor is mid-tier, the high memory and storage make up for it in daily usage. The physical camera shutter adds a layer of privacy for video calls.
Best suited for users needing robust multitasking and privacy features, this laptop delivers premium value. Check current pricing to ensure it fits your budget needs.
Privacy and Security
Includes a physical camera shutter and HD True Vision camera for secure and private video conferencing.
AI-Enhanced Productivity
Get AI-powered assistance from Microsoft Copilot alongside Office apps for smarter workflow management.
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4. HP 17.3 FHD Laptop – Strong Performance
HP 17.3 FHD Laptop
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
16GB RAM
512GB SSD
External Optical Drive
This HP model features the AMD Ryzen 5 7430U, delivering efficient multitasking for gaming and work tasks. It includes an external CD/DVD drive and Office lifetime license.
Pros
- High-performance Ryzen 5 CPU
- Privacy shutter webcam
- Windows 11 Pro security
- Anti-glare display
- Strong multimedia handling
Cons
- Some user rating variability
- External drive dependency
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The 17.3 inch FHD screen offers crisp visuals with anti-glare coating. Windows 11 Pro with BitLocker ensures your data stays secure during business operations.
While user ratings vary slightly, the hardware remains solid for everyday and professional use. The privacy shutter is a thoughtful addition for frequent video conferencing.
Great for students and professionals needing secure, versatile performance, this laptop adapts to many scenarios. Verify external drive compatibility with your specific ports.
Secure Connectivity
Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 keep you connected with fast, reliable speeds for all your online tasks.
Display Clarity
The Full HD screen ensures detailed visuals for multimedia content and gaming with anti-glare comfort.
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5. HP 17.3 FHD Laptop – Business Ready
HP 17.3 FHD Laptop
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
64GB RAM
2TB SSD
External DVD Drive
Trusted for reliability, this HP 17 inch laptop features powerful Ryzen 5 specs and substantial storage. It includes an external DVD drive for legacy media access.
Pros
- High RAM and storage specs
- Reliable HP brand
- Office lifetime license
- Full numeric keypad
- Wi-Fi 6 support
Cons
- USB-C data only
- Battery life unspecified
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The 64GB RAM and 2TB SSD support heavy workloads and fast system responses. Windows 11 Pro ensures essential security tools for professionals are always available.
While USB-C supports data only, the range of ports meets most daily needs. The full numeric keypad improves efficiency for spreadsheet tasks.
Recommended for those needing storage capacity and brand reliability, this laptop fits well in office environments. Always check port types before connecting devices.
Premium Specs
Top-tier performance with Ryzen 5 7430U and Radeon Graphics makes this a smart investment for work.
Productivity Tools
Includes lifetime Microsoft Office Pro with essential tools and security features for business professionals.
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6. HP 17 Laptop Computer – Versatile Pick
HP 17 Laptop Computer
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
16GB RAM
512GB SSD
External CD/DVD Drive
This HP 17 laptop balances performance and convenience with Ryzen 5 power and an external optical drive. It is a versatile pick for mobile professionals and students.
Pros
- Strong AMD Ryzen processor
- Wireless mouse included
- Full HD IPS display
- Office Pro pre-installed
- Modern connectivity options
Cons
- External drive extra accessory
- Moderate display brightness
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The Full HD IPS display ensures vibrant visuals while Wi-Fi 6 keeps you connected. Microsoft Office Pro and Windows 11 Pro come pre-installed for productivity.
While brightness is moderate, the anti-glare coating helps in various lighting conditions. The wireless mouse adds to the convenient out-of-the-box experience.
A solid choice for general computing tasks requiring disc access, this laptop adapts to many scenarios. Confirm current offers to ensure the best value today.
Maximum Convenience
Comes with Office Pro, External CD/DVD Drive, and wireless mouse for an enhanced user experience.
Connectivity
Stay connected with Wi-Fi 6 and essential ports like USB-A, USB-C, HDMI for versatile device connections.
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7. Dell Latitude E6530 – Business Refurbished
Dell Latitude E6530
Intel Core i7-3520M
8GB RAM
240GB SSD
Built-in DVD Drive
This Certified Refurbished Dell Latitude E6530 provides a cost-effective solution with a built-in DVD drive. It has been tested to work like new with limited wear.
Pros
- Built-in optical drive
- Certified refurbished quality
- Windows 10 Pro support
- USB 3.0 ports
- Multi-language support
Cons
- Older processor generation
- Limited 90-day warranty
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Equipped with an older Intel Core i7 processor and 8GB RAM, it suits basic business tasks. The included 90-day warranty offers some peace of mind.
The built-in drive is a significant advantage over external ones, though the hardware is dated. Ensure compatibility with your specific software needs.
Good for users on a tight budget needing physical media access, this model offers functional reliability. Verify the refurbisher's performance bar before purchasing.
Certified Quality
Tested and certified by a third-party refurbisher to look and work like new with minimal signs of wear.
Connectivity Options
Features USB 3.0, HDMI, and VGA for flexible connections to older peripherals and displays.
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8. DELL Latitude D531 – Retro Option
DELL Latitude D531
AMD Turion X2 TL-56
2GB RAM
80GB Hard Drive
DVD/CDRW Drive
This DELL Latitude D531 features an older AMD processor and built-in DVD/CDRW optical drive. It serves niche users needing physical media access on legacy hardware.
Pros
- Built-in DVD/CDRW drive
- Functional for legacy needs
- Included Wi-Fi adapter
- Basic Windows support
- Solid physical build
Cons
- Outdated operating system
- Very low RAM
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With only 2GB RAM and 80GB storage, it is suitable for very light tasks or specific retro environments. The built-in drive saves USB ports.
The hardware is quite dated by modern standards, so expect limitations with current software. Check compatibility before using for any specific legacy applications.
Best for specific legacy needs or collectors, this laptop offers basic functionality with optical media support. Ensure you need this specific hardware before buying.
Optical Media Support
Includes a built-in DVD/CDRW Optical Drive for reading and burning discs without external hardware.
Basic Wireless
Built-in Wireless Adapter allows for basic connectivity to older networks and internet access.
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9. Dell Latitude E6520 – Value Refurbished
Dell Latitude E6520
Intel Core i7-2620M
8GB DDR3 RAM
500GB Hard Drive
Built-in DVD Drive
This renewed Dell Latitude E6520 offers functional hardware with a built-in DVD drive. It is certified to work like new with limited signs of wear.
Pros
- Built-in DVD drive
- Renewed condition assurance
- Windows 10 Pro support
- HDMI output available
- Multi-language options
Cons
- Older DDR3 RAM
- Short warranty period
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Powered by an older Core i7 processor and 8GB DDR3 RAM, it can handle general business tasks. Windows 10 Professional is pre-installed.
The refurbished process ensures basic functionality, though specs are dated. Consider this only if your software requirements match older generations.
A value option for buyers needing DVD drive access on a budget, this model provides essential performance. Verify all accessories are included.
Renewed Process
Functionality testing, inspection, and reconditioning ensure the product looks and works like new upon arrival.
Port Flexibility
Includes VGA and HDMI output for connecting to various external monitors and projectors easily.
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10. Lenovo IdeaPad 15.6 – Entry Level
Lenovo IdeaPad 15.6
AMD A9-9425 Dual-Core
4GB RAM
128GB SSD
DVD+/-RW Drive
This Lenovo IdeaPad 15.6 features a built-in DVD+/-RW drive and solid user ratings. It offers basic performance suitable for entry-level computing needs.
Pros
- Built-in DVD+/-RW drive
- High performance rating
- 128GB SSD included
- Bluetooth connectivity
- HDMI output
Cons
- Older Windows 10 OS
- Lower resolution screen
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With an AMD A9 processor and 128GB SSD, it ensures faster boot times than traditional hard drives. Windows 10 Home and Bluetooth support are included.
The screen resolution is lower, but the SSD and optical drive add value for its price. Ideal for students or basic office tasks.
Great for affordable entry-level use requiring physical media access, this laptop delivers consistent reliability. Check current OS compatibility before purchasing.
Performance Basics
Includes a 128GB SSD and DVD+/-RW drive for faster system response and optical media support.
Connectivity
Equipped with HDMI and Bluetooth to connect to external displays and wireless devices seamlessly.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Laptop with DVD Drive
Selecting a laptop with an optical drive requires attention to both hardware specs and form factor. This guide helps you understand what to prioritize based on your usage needs.
Built-in vs External Drive
Decide if you need a built-in drive for convenience or an external USB one for portability. Built-in saves ports but adds weight to the chassis design. External drives offer flexibility but require an extra connection every time.
Choose built-in if you frequently travel with discs or prioritize a single unit solution. Opt for external if you want a lighter device and have available USB ports.
Processor Performance
Look for processors like AMD Ryzen or Intel Core to ensure smooth performance while burning discs or running software. Modern CPUs handle background tasks efficiently without freezing your system.
Prioritize multi-core processors for heavy multitasking and better overall speed in daily applications and workflows.
RAM and Storage
Ensure at least 8GB RAM for basic tasks, but 16GB or more is better for professional workflows. SSDs provide faster boot times compared to traditional hard drives for your files.
Select models with ample storage to store large files alongside disc media without running out of space quickly.
Operating System
Windows 11 Pro offers enhanced security and features suitable for business. Ensure your software is compatible with the OS version before purchasing the device.
Verify that the OS version supports your specific legacy software and physical media drivers for reliable use.
Display Quality
A high-resolution display with anti-glare coating reduces eye strain during long work sessions. Full HD resolution is ideal for clear visuals while viewing disc content.
Prioritize larger screens if you work with detailed spreadsheets or multimedia content frequently at home.
Connectivity Options
Check for enough USB ports to connect the external drive alongside other peripherals. Wi-Fi 6 ensures faster internet speeds for software updates and cloud sync.
Ensure HDMI and card reader ports are available if you need to connect to projectors or transfer photos.
Portability vs Size
Larger laptops like 17.3 models provide better screens but are heavier for travel. Smaller 15.6 models offer portability but less screen real estate for multitasking.
Choose a size that fits your workspace and travel needs without compromising on essential viewing comfort.
Warranty and Support
Refurbished models may have limited warranties compared to new units. Check seller ratings and return policies before finalizing your purchase decision online.
Prioritize sellers with high performance bars to ensure you receive a quality refurbished or new product.
How to Use and Care for Your Laptop with DVD Drive
For external drives, always connect to a dedicated USB 3.0 port if available. Ensure the drive is seated properly before inserting discs to prevent read errors.
Clean optical discs with a soft lint-free cloth before inserting them into the drive. Dust or smudges can cause playback errors or damage to the internal mechanism.
Keep your laptop vents clear to prevent overheating during extended disc operations. Regularly update your BIOS and optical drivers for compatibility with modern software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all laptops with DVD drives include an internal burner?
Not necessarily. Many modern laptops come with external USB drives instead of internal burners. Check the product specifications carefully to confirm if the drive is built-in or external before purchasing the device.
Can I connect an external DVD drive to any USB port?
Most external drives work with USB-A ports but require enough power. If you have only USB-C ports, you may need an adapter. Always check the manufacturer's compatibility guide for your laptop model.
Why do some laptops still come with optical drives?
Some professionals and institutions rely on legacy software installed via physical media. Additionally, schools and small businesses often use DVDs for backups and data sharing in secure environments.
What is the benefit of Windows 11 Pro over Home?
Windows 11 Pro includes BitLocker encryption and Group Policy Management for enhanced security. It also supports Hyper-V virtualization and remote desktop tools that are useful for business users.
Are refurbished laptops with DVD drives reliable?
Certified refurbished models are tested and come with warranties. Look for sellers with high performance bars and a minimum 90-day warranty. Check reviews to confirm drive functionality.
How much does an external DVD drive cost separately?
External drives typically range from affordable to mid-range prices depending on brand and speed. Bundled models may offer better value since they include the drive with the laptop directly.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Laptop with DVD Drive
We reviewed ten laptops that balance optical media access with modern performance. The HP 17.3 Business Laptop stands out as a top choice for professionals needing power and convenience.
When choosing, prioritize build-in drives for stability or external ones for portability based on your workflow. Ensure your specs match the tasks you plan to run daily.
Remember that prices and availability change frequently. Check current offers and confirm port compatibility before finalizing your purchase online today.