External DVD burner

[TnT]

Looking for an external DVD burner. Want to be able to use it on my computer, my mom's and my sister's laptop. I run Linux, but that shouldn't be a problem. Have some video stuff we'd like to burn, so can't hold out for Blu-Ray or HDDVD. Any recommendations?

[Tjalfe]

would a regular 5.25" external case with USB2/Firewire/SATA + DVD burner of your choice be an option, or do you want smaller?

[VJ]

If you want smaller, the Plextor PX-608u supports everything (DVD+/- DL & DVDRAM) but always needs its powersupply; I have this drive.
Lacie has a USB powered model (comes with powersupply) that supports all but RAM, it does add LightScribe.

Jörg

[VJ]

Just to show some specifications:

Mobile drives:
Plextor PX-608U (no USB power, supports + and - DL, supports DVDRAM)
Lacie D2 Mobile DVD RW (USB powerable, LightScribe, no DL, no DVD-RAM)

Desktop drives:
Plextor PX-750UF (supports USB & IEEE1394, + and - DL, DVD-RAM)

I still feel one can't go wrong with Plextor... I have the PX-708 in my desktop, and now the PX-608U for use with my laptop. The only downside is that it always needs it powersupply.


Jörg

[TnT]

Aight, thanks I'll give those a look.

[VJ]

Of course, if it needn't be a portable drive (but just an external one), you would have a wider array of choices. Most likely, serial ATA could then be a better performer than the USB drives.


Jörg