How to Buy an External DVD Burner

A DVD (digital versatile disk) is one of the most popular storage devices used today. With a DVD burner, you can inscribe information on a blank DVD. Usually, external DVD burners are more expensive than internal ones. Look online for the best options and prices. Follow these steps to buy the external DVD burner that's right for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check the kind of USB or FireWire port your computer uses. For USB ports, there are 2 kinds available: 2.0 and 1.1. Select a DVD player that's compatible with that port. Remember that USB 1.1 is a bit slow. For unique formats like DVD-RAM, CD-Text or CD+G, you need a burner compatible with that particular format.

2. Choose a DVD burner that has a higher speed. Plextor, Sony and Pioneer are few brands from a huge list of options. The latest burners from these brands are extremely advanced and portable.

3. Check out the new Blu-ray disc burner. It's the latest and most popular among DVD users.

4. Assess your PC configuration and operating system before choosing your DVD burner. Check the compatibility of the burner with your machine.

5. Learn more about the features and prices of various external DVD burners. Refer to online buyer’s guides. Use search engines like Yahoo and Google. Browse websites selling external DVD burners. Read reviews and compare pricing. Some popular buyer’s guides are NexTag, Windows Marketplace, MySimon and Epinions (see resources below).

6. Browse through blogs and tech discussion forums. These are good avenues for gathering more information on features, trends and other insights on an external DVD burner.

7. Only buy an external DVD burner after comparing prices in different stores online and offline. Browse through popular online stores such as CompUSA, Best Buy and Circuit City (see resources below).

8. Buy an external DVD burner that has a longer warranty period.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a DVD burner that's easy to install and carry.
• Shop around for the best deals. Look out for discounts.
• Ask your friends and colleagues for suggestions on buying a new external DVD burner.
• Try eBay. You may get a great deal on used external DVD burners. Remember, however, that there are usually no warranties or returns on items bought from eBay.