Drives
LG Slim Portable DVD Writer: Which Model to Buy, From DVD-Only to Blu-ray
The short answer
For DVDs and CDs, an LG slim portable DVD writer like the GP65NB78 or GP60NS50 is all you need: 8x DVD writing, M-DISC support and USB power. If you also want Blu-ray, step up to LG's slim Blu-ray models, the WP50NB40 or BP60NB10.
| DVD write speed | Up to 8x DVD plus or minus R |
|---|---|
| CD write speed | Up to 24x |
| Size (Blu-ray models) | 5.7 x 0.6 x 6.1 inches, about 0.6 lb |
| Connection | USB, powered from the port |
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What's covered8
The LG slim portable DVD writer is a small USB drive that adds a disc drive to a laptop. LG sells several versions, and the model names are easy to mix up. Some write DVDs and CDs only. Others also read and burn Blu-ray.
An LG slim portable DVD writer like the GP65NB78 writes DVDs at up to 8x and CDs at up to 24x, supports M-DISC, and runs from a USB port. If you need Blu-ray too, LG's slim Blu-ray writers, the WP50NB40 and BP60NB10, add Blu-ray burning and playback software.
The LG slim portable DVD writer lineup
LG's slim drives fall into two groups.
DVD and CD writers:
- GP65NB78: 14mm tall, USB 2.0 (works with USB 3.0 ports), up to 8x DVD and 24x CD writing, with M-DISC support.
- GP60NS50: up to 8x DVD writing, with M-DISC support.
- EX70 (GP63EX70): writes DVD plus and minus R and RW and DVD-RAM, and lists Windows and Mac support.
- SP80NB80: LG's spec sheet lists 8x DVD writing, 24x CD writing, DVD M-DISC support and a "Silent Play" mode that cuts disc noise during movies.
Blu-ray writers:
- WP50NB40: reads and burns DVD and Blu-ray, with M-DISC support.
- BP60NB10: adds BDXL support for 100GB discs and 3D Blu-ray playback.
LG's spec pages list both Blu-ray models at 5.7 by 0.6 by 6.1 inches and about 0.6 pounds, with a USB 2.0 link. That is small enough for a laptop bag.
DVD-only or Blu-ray?
Buy a DVD-only writer if you only work with DVDs and CDs. It handles home video discs, software installs, music CDs and DVD backups.
Buy a Blu-ray model if you want to play Blu-ray movies on a laptop or back up large files. A single-layer Blu-ray holds 25GB, and BDXL discs hold 100GB, far more than a DVD. Our Blu-ray external drive guide compares Blu-ray drives from LG and other makers.
Speed and connection
All of these drives run from the USB port, so there is no power brick to carry. Most use USB 2.0, which tops out at 480 Mbps. That is plenty for DVD speeds.
Some laptops cannot supply enough power from one port. If a drive spins up and stops, try a different port or a powered USB hub.
Software and playback
LG's Blu-ray models ship with CyberLink software for burning and playing discs, per LG's spec pages. The DVD writers vary by bundle. Windows can burn data DVDs without extra software. Playing DVD movies on a recent version of Windows may need a player app.
On a Mac, the drive shows up as an external disc drive once connected. Movie playback and burning can use the apps that come with macOS or a third-party app, depending on the task.
LG slim portable DVD writer models to look for
Details below come from each product's retail listing, checked in September 2026. Check the current listing for the current price, stock and bundle before you buy.
- GP65NB78: LG GP65NB78 slim portable DVD writer, 14mm tall, 8x DVD and 24x CD writing, M-DISC support.
- GP60NS50: LG GP60NS50 slim portable DVD writer, 8x DVD writing, M-DISC support.
- EX70: LG EX70 (GP63EX70) slim portable DVD writer, listed for Windows and Mac.
- Blu-ray step-up: LG WP50NB40 slim portable Blu-ray burner, sold here with a 100GB BDXL disc and CyberLink software.
Which LG model fits which job
For music CDs, DVD backups and the odd software disc, any of the DVD writers will do. The GP65NB78 lists a 14mm height, which suits a laptop bag. For a Mac, the EX70 lists Mac support on its listing. For Blu-ray movies on a laptop, the WP50NB40 is the entry point, and the BP60NB10 adds BDXL for 100GB backups.
Blank discs for your LG drive
A DVD writer takes standard DVD and CD blanks, plus DVD M-DISC for archiving. A Blu-ray model also takes BD-R and BD-RE, and BDXL on the BP60NB10. Our blank Blu-ray guide compares Blu-ray media. For backing up DVDs you own, see our DVD copy guide.
Verdict on the LG slim portable DVD writer
An LG slim portable DVD writer such as the GP65NB78 or GP60NS50 covers DVDs and CDs with 8x writing and M-DISC support, powered from USB. If you want Blu-ray movies or larger backups, choose LG's slim Blu-ray models, the WP50NB40 or BP60NB10, instead.
FAQ
Does the LG slim portable DVD writer work with a Mac?
Several LG slim models list Mac support, including the EX70 (GP63EX70). Check the listing for your model and macOS version before you buy.
Can an LG slim portable DVD writer play Blu-ray?
The DVD writers cannot. LG's slim Blu-ray writers, such as the WP50NB40 and BP60NB10, read and burn Blu-ray and ship with playback software.
What is M-DISC support on an LG drive?
It means the drive can write M-DISC media, a disc type sold for long-term archiving. LG lists M-DISC support on its slim DVD and Blu-ray writers.