10 Best Laptop with DVD Drive (November 2026) Expert Guide

Finding a laptop with a built-in or included optical drive is becoming increasingly rare in modern computing. Many users still rely on DVDs for software installation, media playback, or data backup. This guide helps you navigate the options available.

We evaluated ten real products based on processor power, display quality, and optical drive inclusion. Each entry offers a unique mix of specs for business, school, or home use. Our analysis focuses on value and functional reliability.

Every pick includes detailed specifications and honest assessments of strengths and limitations. Note that product availability and pricing can fluctuate frequently. Always verify the current listing before making a purchase decision online.

Top 3 Picks for Best Laptop with DVD Drive

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Top 10 Best Laptop with DVD Drive in 2026 Compared

The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten selected laptops. Review key specifications like processor type, memory, and storage to find the right fit for your needs.

1. HP 17.3 Business Laptop – Best Overall Laptop with DVD Drive

4.5Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

HP 17.3 Business Laptop

AMD Ryzen 5 7430U

16GB DDR4 RAM

512GB PCIe SSD

17.3 inch FHD IPS

The HP 17.3 Business Laptop stands out as a top choice for users needing optical media support. It features a robust AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor and comes with an external CD/DVD drive bundled in. This makes it ideal for professionals who still rely on physical discs for software or data.

Pros

• Strong 6-core processor performance
• Large 17.3 inch display
• External optical drive included
• Windows 11 Pro pre-installed
• Full connectivity with Wi-Fi 6

Cons

• External drive requires USB port
• Weight is higher than ultrabooks

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Performance is strong thanks to 16GB of RAM and a fast 512GB SSD. The 17.3 inch Full HD IPS display offers ample screen real estate for multitasking. Pre-installed Microsoft Office Pro and Windows 11 Pro ensure you are ready to work immediately upon unboxing.

While the external drive is not built into the chassis, it adds flexibility without compromising the laptop's slim profile. The Wi-Fi 6 connectivity ensures fast and stable internet speeds. This balance of power and legacy support makes it a versatile tool.

Buyers looking for a reliable workstation with optical drive capabilities should strongly consider this model. It bridges the gap between modern computing needs and traditional media formats effectively. The included accessories enhance the overall value proposition significantly.

Powerful Processor Performance

The AMD Ryzen 5 7430U delivers efficient multitasking with 6 cores and 12 threads for smooth operation.

Legacy Media Support

Included external CD/DVD drive allows you to access physical media without needing an internal drive.

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2. Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad – Best Budget Laptop with DVD Drive

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Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad

AMD Athlon 7120U

4GB DDR5 RAM

128GB SSD + 500GB External

15.6 inch HD

The Lenovo 15.6 IdeaPad offers an entry-level solution for those needing a laptop with DVD capabilities. It includes an external DVD player and storage expansion options to enhance functionality. This bundle is suitable for basic home tasks and light school work.

Pros

• Affordable price point
• External DVD player included
• Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
• Numeric keypad for data entry

Cons

• Limited 4GB RAM capacity
• HD resolution not Full HD

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Powered by an AMD Athlon processor, it handles everyday applications with ease. The full-size keyboard with a numeric keypad aids in spreadsheet work and data entry. Connectivity includes modern standards like Wi-Fi 6 and USB-C for peripheral support.

Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the inclusion of external storage and optical drive access. However, the 4GB RAM and HD screen may limit performance for heavy multitasking. It is best suited for users with modest computing requirements.

This laptop provides a practical starting point for students or home users who need optical drive access. The combination of low cost and essential features makes it a compelling option in the budget segment.

Affordable Storage Bundle

Comes with 500GB external storage and a DVD player to expand your capacity and media access.

Efficient Input

The full-size keyboard includes a dedicated numeric keypad for faster data entry and productivity.

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3. HP 17.3 Laptop – Best Premium Laptop with DVD Drive

4.1Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

HP 17.3 Laptop

Intel Core i3-N305

32GB RAM

1TB SSD

Windows 11 Pro

This HP 17.3 laptop prioritizes memory and storage with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. While it uses an Intel Core i3 processor, the high RAM makes it capable of handling multiple applications. An external DVD drive is supported for optical media needs.

Pros

• High 32GB RAM capacity
• Large 1TB SSD storage
• Windows 11 Pro OS
• External DVD drive support

Cons

• Intel Core i3 is entry level
• No built-in optical drive

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Windows 11 Pro adds professional features like Hyper-V virtualization for advanced users. The large screen provides a comfortable workspace for productivity tasks. It is designed for those who need significant local storage and memory headroom.

The external optical drive requirement means you must manage an additional peripheral for DVDs. However, the internal specs are robust for a laptop at this price range. It suits users who value capacity over raw CPU power.

If your workflow requires extensive memory and storage space, this model delivers on those fronts. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro and support for external drives ensures compatibility with legacy and modern software needs.

Ample Memory and Storage

With 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD, you can store large files and run multiple programs without slowdowns.

Professional OS Features

Windows 11 Pro includes advanced tools like BitLocker encryption and Group Policy Management for security.

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4. HP 17.3 FHD Laptop – Versatile Laptop with DVD Drive

3.9Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

HP 17.3 FHD Laptop

AMD Ryzen 5 7430U

16GB RAM

512GB SSD

17.3 inch FHD

This HP model targets business and students with a balanced set of features. It includes an external CD/DVD drive and offers strong performance via the Ryzen 5 processor. The 17.3 inch display is suitable for general viewing and work.

Pros

• 6-core AMD processor
• External CD/DVD drive included
• Windows 11 Pro license
• Privacy shutter on webcam

Cons

• Display brightness at 250 nits
• No touch screen option

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Security is addressed with a privacy shutter on the built-in webcam. This physical barrier ensures your privacy during sensitive meetings. Windows 11 Pro provides advanced security features like BitLocker for data protection.

The brightness of the display is adequate for indoor use but may struggle in direct sunlight. For typical office or classroom environments, it performs well. The external drive ensures you can still access older media formats.

Buyers who prioritize privacy and a large screen will find this laptop appealing. The combination of business-grade specs and optical drive access makes it a practical tool for mixed-use scenarios.

Enhanced Privacy Features

A built-in privacy shutter on the webcam allows you to physically block the camera when not in use.

Large Work Area

The 17.3 inch screen offers more space for documents and spreadsheets than smaller laptops.

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5. HP 17.3 FHD Laptop – Business Laptop with DVD Drive

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HP 17.3 FHD Laptop

AMD Ryzen 5 7430U

16GB RAM

512GB SSD

17.3 inch FHD

Another variant of the HP 17.3 series offers similar core specifications. It emphasizes reliability and includes an external DVD drive for media access. The design is sleek and optimized for long-term productivity in various settings.

Pros

• Reliable HP brand reputation
• External DVD drive bundled
• Full numeric keypad
• Wi-Fi 6 support

Cons

• External drive adds bulk
• Battery life varies by load

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The full numeric keypad helps professionals who work frequently with data and spreadsheets. Connectivity options include USB-A and USB-C for versatile device connections. The included lifetime Office license ensures you can start working immediately.

While the external drive adds some bulk to your bag, it allows the main unit to remain sleek. The Ryzen 5 processor handles daily tasks efficiently. This model is a safe choice for standard business needs.

It serves as a robust alternative for users seeking a larger screen and optical drive support. The balance of features and brand trust makes it a reliable option for students and professionals alike.

Productivity Focused

The full numeric keypad streamlines data entry tasks for accounting and research work.

Sleek Design

The laptop maintains a clean look while supporting external peripherals for legacy media.

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6. HP 17 Laptop Computer – Reliable Laptop with DVD Drive

4.0Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

HP 17 Laptop Computer

AMD Ryzen 5 7430U

16GB RAM

512GB SSD

17.3 inch FHD

This HP 17 laptop is designed for business and students with essential features. It includes an external CD/DVD drive and runs on Windows 11 Pro for enhanced security. The 17.3 inch display provides a comfortable viewing area for daily tasks.

Pros

• External CD/DVD drive included
• Strong Ryzen processor
• 16GB RAM standard
• Windows 11 Pro license

Cons

• 250 nits brightness limit
• Plastic build materials

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Performance is managed by the AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor which handles multitasking well. The 16GB RAM ensures smooth operation even with multiple browser tabs open. An external optical drive is included to maintain compatibility with discs.

The display is functional for indoor use but not extremely bright. For typical office work this is acceptable. The laptop offers good connectivity options to keep you connected to networks and peripherals easily.

It is a reliable choice for those needing a larger screen and optical drive access. The included accessories and operating system make it ready for professional use right out of the box.

Smooth Multitasking

With 16GB RAM and a 6-core processor, you can run multiple apps without significant lag.

Ready to Use

Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro and Office make this device ready for immediate professional use.

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7. Dell Latitude E6530 – Refurbished Laptop with DVD Drive

3.5Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Dell Latitude E6530

Intel Core i7-3520M

8GB RAM

240GB SSD

Built-in DVD Drive

The Dell Latitude E6530 is a refurbished business laptop with a built-in DVD drive. It offers a cost-effective way to get a durable machine with legacy media support. The built-in optical drive is a key differentiator for those needing physical disc access.

Pros

• Built-in optical drive
• Certified Refurbished value
• Windows 10 Pro
• Durable Latitude series

Cons

• Older CPU architecture
• Limited future upgrades

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Certified refurbishing ensures the unit functions well with limited signs of wear. It includes an SSD for faster boot times compared to older hard drives. The Windows 10 Pro OS supports business environments with multi-language support.

Performance is adequate for general tasks but the CPU is older. It is not intended for modern high-intensity workloads. However, for specific legacy tasks it remains a viable option.

If you need a laptop with a built-in DVD drive at a lower price point, this refurbished model fits. It provides a solid foundation for basic business or school needs without the cost of a new device.

Built-in Optical Drive

The built-in DVD drive saves you from carrying an external peripheral for disc reading.

Refurbished Value

Certified Refurbished products offer significant savings while maintaining functional reliability.

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8. DELL Latitude D531 – Legacy Laptop with DVD Drive

3.5Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

DELL Latitude D531

AMD Turion X2 TL-56

2GB RAM

80GB Hard Drive

DVD/CDRW Optical Drive

This Dell Latitude model is a legacy unit with a built-in DVD/CDRW drive. It serves as a basic machine for simple computing needs. The optical drive is integrated into the chassis for easy access.

Pros

• Built-in DVD/CDRW drive
• Low cost option
• Basic connectivity

Cons

• Very limited RAM
• Outdated OS

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The hardware specs are dated with only 2GB RAM and a small hard drive. It runs Windows Vista Business which is no longer supported. This limits its use to offline tasks or very basic connectivity.

For those needing a cheap device to play CDs or DVDs this is a choice. It should not be used for internet browsing or modern applications. It is best for specific archival or offline tasks.

If you need an inexpensive laptop with an integrated optical drive this fits the bill. It is a functional option for basic playback and data retrieval without modern performance expectations.

Integrated Optical Drive

The built-in DVD/CDRW drive allows for reading and burning discs directly from the laptop.

Legacy Use

This model is best suited for offline tasks or simple media playback needs.

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9. Dell 2019 Latitude E6520 – Value Laptop with DVD Drive

3.8Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Dell 2019 Latitude E6520

Intel Core i7 2620M

8GB DDR3 RAM

500GB Hard Drive

Built-in DVD Drive

The Dell 2019 Latitude E6520 offers a built-in DVD drive in a refurbished package. It provides a reliable platform for basic office tasks. The optical drive is a valuable asset for users who still use discs.

Pros

• Built-in DVD drive
• Certified Refurbished
• Windows 10 Pro

Cons

• Older Core i7
• Mechanical hard drive

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Certified Refurbished status ensures the unit is tested and functional. It includes Windows 10 Pro and multi-language support. The hardware is older but sufficient for basic word processing and data entry.

The mechanical hard drive may be slower than modern SSDs. However, it provides decent storage capacity. This makes it a viable option for offline work or legacy application support.

If you need a laptop with a built-in DVD drive at a budget price, this is a strong contender. It offers the reliability of a business class model with cost effective pricing.

Business Class Durability

Latitude series laptops are known for their durability and build quality in business settings.

Cost Effective Storage

The 500GB hard drive provides ample space for files at a lower cost.

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10. Lenovo 2019 IdeaPad – Entry Laptop with DVD Drive

4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon

Lenovo 2019 IdeaPad

AMD A9-9425

4GB RAM

128GB SSD

Built-in DVD+/-RW

The Lenovo 2019 IdeaPad includes a built-in DVD+/-RW drive and an SSD. This combination offers a good balance of speed and media access. It is a budget friendly option for light computing tasks.

Pros

• Built-in DVD+/-RW
• Fast SSD storage
• Low price point

Cons

• Limited RAM for multitasking
• Basic HD display

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The AMD A9 processor is adequate for web browsing and basic apps. The SSD ensures quick boot times. Windows 10 Home provides a familiar interface for most users.

With only 4GB RAM, heavy multitasking may cause slowdowns. However, for single app use it performs well. The built-in optical drive is a nice feature for a device in this price range.

This laptop is a practical choice for users needing an integrated optical drive on a budget. It provides essential functionality without unnecessary costs making it a good entry level machine.

Built-in Optical Drive

The built-in DVD+/-RW drive supports reading and writing discs directly from the laptop.

Fast Boot Times

The 128GB SSD provides quick access to your files and faster startup times.

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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Laptop with DVD Drive

Selecting a laptop with an optical drive requires balancing modern performance with legacy needs. Here are the key factors to consider.

Internal vs External Drive

Most modern laptops do not include internal optical drives. You must choose between a refurbished laptop with a built-in drive or a new laptop with an external USB drive. External drives offer portability but require a free USB port.

Consider how often you need the drive. If rarely you may prefer an external unit with a sleek modern laptop.

Processor and RAM

For smooth operation look for at least an AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i3 processor. Paired with 16GB of RAM this ensures multitasking capabilities without lag.

This setup handles general productivity and media tasks effectively.

Storage Options

An SSD is highly recommended for speed and reliability. Aim for at least 512GB of storage to handle files and applications comfortably.

Prioritize SSDs over mechanical hard drives for faster performance.

Display Quality

A Full HD IPS display provides clear visuals for work and media. A larger 17-inch screen offers more workspace for documents.

Look for screens with anti-glare coatings to reduce eye strain.

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro offers advanced features like BitLocker and remote desktop. Ensure the OS is included or easy to install.

Check for licensing to avoid extra costs.

Connectivity

Modern ports like USB-C and HDMI are essential for peripherals. Wi-Fi 6 ensures stable internet connections for cloud access.

Verify port availability for external drives and displays.

Portability and Weight

External drives add weight to your bag. If you travel often a lighter laptop with an external drive may be better.

Weigh the need for a built-in drive against your travel habits.

Warranty and Support

Newer laptops often come with one year warranties. Refurbished models typically offer 90 days. Check seller ratings for refurbishments.

Ensure there is a return policy if the drive fails.

How to Use and Care for Your Laptop with DVD Drive

Keep the optical drive clean by avoiding dusty environments. Use compressed air to clear debris from the disc slot regularly.

For external drives store them in a protective case to prevent cable damage. Always eject discs properly before unplugging the drive.

Update your system drivers to ensure the optical drive is recognized correctly. Check for BIOS updates if you experience connection issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do modern laptops still come with DVD drives?

Most new laptops do not include built-in optical drives to save weight and space. However some business models and refurbished units still offer this feature. You can also use external USB drives for compatibility.

Can I play old DVDs on a new laptop?

Yes you can play DVDs on a new laptop using an external USB DVD drive. Install compatible media software to handle playback. The laptop will recognize the external drive as a standard optical unit.

Is an external DVD drive better than internal?

External drives are more portable and work with almost any laptop. Internal drives are convenient but rare in new models. External drives are preferred for modern slim laptops.

What OS supports external DVD drives?

Windows 10 and 11 support external DVD drives natively. Linux systems also support them with the right drivers. Ensure your OS is up to date for best compatibility.

Are refurbished laptops with DVD drives reliable?

Certified Refurbished units are tested for functionality and include warranties. They often offer great value for legacy hardware needs. Always check the seller's reputation before purchasing.

How much RAM do I need for a laptop with DVD drive?

16GB of RAM is recommended for smooth multitasking and performance. 4GB may work for very basic tasks but could struggle with modern software. Aim for higher specs for longevity.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Laptop with DVD Drive

We reviewed ten laptops offering optical drive support for different needs. The HP 17.3 Business Laptop stands out for its performance and included external drive.

Prioritize specs like RAM and SSD for future proofing while ensuring the drive meets your requirements. External drives offer flexibility but internal ones add convenience.

Prices and availability change often so check the current listing before buying. Verify warranty and support options for a smooth purchase experience.

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