Hitachi LG External CD/DVD Drive - Portable USB Type-C Player Burner

In this review the Hitachi LG External CD/DVD Drive is evaluated as a small, no-frills portable optical drive aimed at users who still rely on discs for media, backup or occasional software installs. The bottom line: it is a lightweight, plug-and-play solution that works across multiple operating systems and devices, and its strongest selling point is broad compatibility rather than advanced extras. If you need a simple external DVDRW that connects to laptops, PCs, Android and Fire OS devices, this drive gets the core job done without fuss.

Key Features

• Multi-OS Compatibility: The drive supports Windows, Mac, Android and Fire OS devices so it can be used with laptops, desktops, tablets and many set-top boxes for reading and writing discs.
• USB Type-C and Type-A included: Both USB-C and USB-A cables are provided so the drive connects easily to modern laptops and older PCs without buying adapters.
• DiscLink Platinum app support: The included app automatically recognizes album art and track data via Gracenote and can extract MP3 tracks from audio CDs for archiving.
• Automatic firmware updates: Firmware update utility keeps the drive current with security improvements and device support without manual searching.
• Fire TV DVD playback: When paired with a compatible Fire TV device and the DiscLink app, the drive can play DVDs on a TV box or tablet for movie playback.
• Lightweight plug-and-play design: At about 0.55 in height the drive is slim and easy to carry, making it convenient for travel and occasional use.

Who It's For

This external DVDRW is best for students, home users and small business owners who occasionally need to read or burn CDs and DVDs and want a compact, portable unit that works with a variety of devices. It is also useful for anyone who wants an easy way to rip audio CDs to MP3 using the DiscLink Platinum app and to keep optical backups of photos or documents.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who require constant heavy-duty disc authoring, professional video production with high-speed multi-session burns, or owners of iOS devices since the drive does not support iPhone or iPad connections. Also note that DVD playback on Android devices requires a separate True DVD app to be obtained separately.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Broad device compatibility makes it flexible across PCs, Macs and many Android and Fire OS boxes.
• Cables for both USB-C and USB-A are included, avoiding extra purchases for adapters.
• DiscLink Platinum app with Gracenote integration simplifies MP3 extraction and media metadata display.
• Automatic firmware updates help maintain compatibility and security over time.

Cons

• Does not work with iOS devices, so iPhone and iPad users cannot connect to this drive.
• DVD playback on some devices requires a separate True DVD app, which is not included.

Specifications

Product Type	External DVDRW drive
Interface	USB Type-C and USB Type-A (cables included)
OS Compatibility	Windows, Mac, Android, Fire OS
Bundled Software	Cyberlink Power2Go Tool CD and DiscLink Platinum app
Firmware	Automatic firmware update utility
Height	Approximately 0.55 in
Color	Black

Our Verdict

The Hitachi LG External CD/DVD Drive is a practical, no-nonsense portable burner and player for users who need cross-platform disc support without extra complexity. It represents good value for occasional use, media ripping and simple backup tasks, especially where USB-C connectivity and app-based features like Gracenote matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work with my iPhone?
No. The drive does not support iOS devices such as iPhone or iPad.

Can I play DVDs on a Fire TV with this drive?
Yes. Plug the drive into a compatible Fire TV device and run the DiscLink app, but DVD playback requires a separate True DVD app to be obtained separately.

Are cables included?
Yes. The package includes both USB type A and USB type C cables plus a tool CD and manual.