Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition CD Drives

The Bottom Line: MSI's quiet, solidly constructed CR52-M has a number of interesting design flourishes, but we prefer Lite-On's faster LTR-52327S.

Specs: CD-RW, 52x, 52x, 32x

The Bottom Line: If you can live with fewer setup amenities, the LiteOn offers top-flight performance at an affordable price.

Specs: CD-RW, 52x, 52x, 24x

The Bottom Line: The LaCie offers solid and speedy performance, but its bulky size and weight limit its portability.

Specs: CD-RW, 52x, 52x, 24x

The Bottom Line: Its fast performance and cheap price make the Lightning V a good upgrade for experienced users.

Specs: CD-RW, 52x, 52x, 24x

The Bottom Line: This convenient external USB CD-RW drive is easy to set up, but glitches and confusing manuals limit its success.

Specs: CD-RW, 48x, 48x, 12x

The Bottom Line: The reliable, fast-reading PlexWriter 48/24/48A is an excellent all-around drive and a real boon for backup-minded individuals--as long as price is not an issue.

Specs: CD-RW, 48x, 48x, 24x

The Bottom Line: If you want a fast drive that's easy to share, pick the CenDyne external USB 2.0 CD-RW. It offers a low price and easy setup, and it masters more CDs per hour than any external unit we've tested.

Specs: CD-RW, 40x, 40x, 12x

The Bottom Line: If you want cutting-edge CD-RW speed at a low price, this 40X/12X/48X-rated drive delivers both with few frills--and few compromises. It's a good budget buy for consumers and small businesses.

Specs: CD-RW, 48x, 40x, 12x

The Bottom Line: With slick looks, plenty of audio-mastering power, and heavy-duty performance, this drive will please aspiring digital DJs or anyone looking for blazing packet-writing performance.

Specs: CD-RW, 48x, 40x, 12x

The Bottom Line: Despite its average performance and spare bundle, the Samsung SW-232B stands out from other 32X drives because of its noise-dampening technology--a potential boon to crowded offices and homes.

Specs: CD-RW, 40x, 32x, 10x