What To Know
- The Apple USB SuperDrive is a compact and portable external optical drive that connects to your Mac via a USB cable.
- On the other hand, the MacBook Air SuperDrive is an internal optical drive that is built into certain models of the MacBook Air laptop.
- If you need a built-in optical drive for your MacBook Air laptop and prioritize convenience over portability, the MacBook Air SuperDrive is the better option.
In the era of cloud storage and wireless connectivity, physical media like DVDs and CDs may seem outdated. However, there are still situations where having a built-in or external optical drive can be beneficial. This is where the Apple USB SuperDrive and MacBook Air SuperDrive come into play. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two optical drives, exploring their features, compatibility, and suitability for various use cases.
Design and Connectivity
The Apple USB SuperDrive is a compact and portable external optical drive that connects to your Mac via a USB cable. It features a sleek and minimalist design, weighing only 0.5 pounds and measuring 0.6 inches in thickness. On the other hand, the MacBook Air SuperDrive is an internal optical drive that is built into certain models of the MacBook Air laptop. It is not removable and is designed to be a seamless part of the device.
Performance and Compatibility
Both the Apple USB SuperDrive and MacBook Air SuperDrive offer similar performance in terms of read and write speeds. They can read and write DVDs at up to 8x speed and CDs at up to 24x speed. However, the MacBook Air SuperDrive has the advantage of being directly connected to the computer’s circuitry, which can result in slightly faster performance in some cases.
In terms of compatibility, the Apple USB SuperDrive is compatible with all Mac computers running macOS 10.6 or later. The MacBook Air SuperDrive, on the other hand, is only compatible with specific models of the MacBook Air laptop.
Portability and Convenience
The Apple USB SuperDrive is highly portable due to its compact size and USB connectivity. You can easily carry it in your bag or backpack and use it with any Mac computer. The MacBook Air SuperDrive, however, is not portable as it is built into the laptop. This means that you cannot use it with other devices or take it with you on the go.
Price and Availability
The Apple USB SuperDrive is available for purchase from the Apple Store and other authorized retailers. It retails for $79. The MacBook Air SuperDrive is only available as an option when purchasing a new MacBook Air laptop. The price of the MacBook Air SuperDrive varies depending on the model of the laptop.
Use Cases
The Apple USB SuperDrive is ideal for users who need an external optical drive for occasional use. It is suitable for burning and reading DVDs and CDs, watching DVDs, and installing software from physical media. The MacBook Air SuperDrive is more suitable for users who frequently use optical media and require a built-in drive for convenience.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between the Apple USB SuperDrive and MacBook Air SuperDrive depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a portable external optical drive that you can use with any Mac computer, the Apple USB SuperDrive is the best choice. If you need a built-in optical drive for your MacBook Air laptop and prioritize convenience over portability, the MacBook Air SuperDrive is the better option.
Alternatives
If neither the Apple USB SuperDrive nor the MacBook Air SuperDrive meet your requirements, there are other alternative optical drives available. These include:
- External DVD/CD Burner: There are various external DVD/CD burners available from third-party manufacturers that offer similar functionality to the Apple USB SuperDrive.
- Blu-ray Drive: For users who need to read and write Blu-ray discs, external Blu-ray drives are available that can be connected to your Mac via USB or Thunderbolt.
- Virtual Optical Drive: A virtual optical drive is a software-based solution that allows you to use ISO files as if they were physical discs.
Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Decision
Choosing between the Apple USB SuperDrive and MacBook Air SuperDrive requires careful consideration of your needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize portability, convenience, or compatibility, there is an optical drive solution that will meet your requirements. By understanding the key differences between these two options and exploring the available alternatives, you can make an informed decision that best suits your workflow.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Is the Apple USB SuperDrive compatible with Windows PCs?
No, the Apple USB SuperDrive is not compatible with Windows PCs.
2. Can I use the MacBook Air SuperDrive to burn Blu-ray discs?
No, the MacBook Air SuperDrive can only read and write DVDs and CDs.
3. Is it possible to upgrade the MacBook Air to have a SuperDrive?
No, it is not possible to upgrade the MacBook Air to have a SuperDrive.
4. Can I use an external optical drive with my MacBook Air even if it does not have a SuperDrive?
Yes, you can use an external optical drive with your MacBook Air via USB or Thunderbolt.
5. What is the best alternative to the MacBook Air SuperDrive?
The best alternative to the MacBook Air SuperDrive is an external DVD/CD burner that offers similar functionality and portability.
