Get a portable DVD burner for $48.99

The super-slim, USB-powered Samsung drive makes a perfect Netbook companion.

(Credit: Newegg)

Got a Netbook? Then at some point you've probably longed for an optical drive, whether to install software, watch a DVD, burn a CD, or whatever.

Newegg has a Samsung SE-S084 portable CD/DVD drive for $48.99 shipped. It's perfect for netbooks, though obviously it's compatible with desktops and laptops as well.

The SE-S084 is about as compact and lightweight as an optical drive can get, weighing 14 ounces and measuring just 0.75 inch by 5.5 inches by 6.2 inches (HWD). You'll barely notice it in your travel bag.

Better still, the drive runs on USB power, so there's no AC adapter to bring along. However, it does require two close-proximity USB ports; if your Netbook has one on either side, you'll need a cable extender (not included) to reach both.

(Or maybe not: A few of the user reviews on Newegg's product page indicate the drive needs that second port only for power-intensive tasks like burning discs.)

I haven't tried this drive firsthand, but there's a fairly extensive review over at Hardware Secrets. Verdict: very positive.

What do you think, Netbook owners? Have you been dying for a drive like this, or do you get by fine on downloads and other CD/DVD workarounds?

[yoyojam55]

If you don't have a netbook, how about this zune HD deal in case you didn't see it when I posted it yesterday.

It is $219, but you get 15% off with this coupon: WFQ2V09TBGKJ21
That brings the total to $185 for the 16GB version, or $245 for the 32GB version which normally sells for $289. Additionally, both come with a $25 gift card to dell.com. It's bringing up free next day delievery for me, but, as with most dell deals, I have to pay sales tax. YMMV on shipping/tax.

http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/products/All_MP3_Players/productdetail.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&sku=ZHD16B for the 16GB,

http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/products/All_MP3_Players/productdetail.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&sku=ZHD32B for the 32GB.

The code expires on Wednesday, so get on this fast!

[joevai52]

Thanks for the post, but I just tried both of those and I got this:

Our apologies...

The product you have selected is not currently available for online purchase in the segment you have selected.

thx dude for the code! it's working for me. 187 for a 16 gb zune HD is an awesome price. Will make an awesome companion to my ipod. Kudos.

[yoyojam55]

Hmm weird, I'm getting that now too, but when I go to this http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/category.aspx?c=us&category_id=5906&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs&~ck=mn page the zune hd is advertised. I would check back later, maybe it will go back up. It was working earlier today.

[Raabscuttle]

This is a very good price for a branded slim external DVD burner *especially new) - pretty near wholesale

[jwrupe]

I have one of these DVD burners. Bought it for my UMPC, but got a netbook this year and use the optical drive still. Its a very good item. Bought mine used for <$100 almost 2 years ago, so this is a fantastic price on a very portable optical drive. I have yet to need the power plug, as everything has worked with just the USB power thus far.

[Nychocolips]

Rick, is there anyway your site can have an area for us to put unrelated items during the day? This way comments can stay on topic for your posts yet we can still share things with each other when we find them.

Cheers

[rickbroida]

Hmmm...I'll have to look into that. Interesting idea!

[njjay2008]

It said the coupon code has already been redeemed

[yoyojam55]

The other code for 15% off the zune hd (or any other mp3 player for that matter) is expired, but try this one, it doesn't expire until October 31st.
6FWJ247J1P44CK

[noopsy]

There's a black one with the same model number (SE-S084) for a $1 more: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827151186

[goober_nut]

Thanks for the find Rick. Bought one for me and the mrs to share on our Eee PCs. This will make installing Win 7 in October much easier.