External BluRay/DVD USB Drive

[Scarpozzi]

I just ordered one of these new laptops with no optical media drive included from Dell.

I've got a few options for just an external DVD for $30...but the BluRay players appear to be $60-100.

Anyone have a brand preference on those? I think Dell sells Buffalo brand, but they are more expensive and I'm curious if there are cheaper options that perform just as well.

 

[Insert_Nickname]

External opticals are pretty much commodity, so the difference is negligeble. I think most are rebranded LG drives anyway.

 

[Scarpozzi]

I'm not surprised there are a lot of rebranded drives in that space considering the royalties required to manufacture the players.

I may hold off and see how many times I *wish* I had a mobile bluray player for my kids. It just feels weird not having a DVD option. (my current laptop is like 8 years old)