Lite-on eTDU108 disc reader

Like the Samsung DVD drive we reviewed, this Lite-on model is designed to add disc-reading capabilities to computers that don't already have such drives.

That makes it especially useful for netbooks and other small laptop computers, but since it uses a standard USB connection (the cable for which is supplied and sits inside the unit when not in use) it can be used with any computer. Setup was easy – it was automatically recognised by all the test computers we tried, going back to Windows XP.

It's roughly the same size as the Samsung, a little larger than a DVD and under 2cm thick. Unlike that drive, though, this one loads from the top – moving a switch on the front flips the lid open to insert a disc. There's no technical advantage or disadvantage to this method – it's a matter of preference.

However, where the Samsung could both read and create discs, this device only reads them. It works with all CDs and DVDs (though not Blu-ray) but it's a shame that it can't be used to make those discs as well.