(no subject)

[heidi]

The DVD burner in my PC, XP-based computer is busted - I can either get an internal or an external as a replacement - what do you guys recommend?

Comments

[ancarett]

Internal's cheaper, a little faster data communication and probably less hassle once it's installed (cause you're not dealing with the cords looping about and it taking up one of your USB ports). External's definitely more expensive but it can be useful if you've got a couple computers you're able to use it with.

Of course, the installation is also a worry if the computer itself is getting old and you're planning on replacing it in the next year to eighteen months. Then you're probably not going to get your money's worth out of it.

[weatherguy2000.livejournal.com]

Visit Newegg.com.

This site is really good because the prices are pretty good, and it gives ratings information on all their products from the users. I'm currently putting together a new system on my own using Newegg.

[tobymalfoy.livejournal.com]

Internal. Once installed a lot less hassle than an external one. LD makes good drives, but really, the brand doesn't matter these days anymore, unless you want to use exotic things like DVD-RAM.

[rookie131.livejournal.com]

I'll join the concensus and say internal, as well. They really aren't that difficult to install, if you are thinking of doing it yourself. I have a LightScribe in my computer. Though it does make cool images on the CDs and DVDs, I'm not sure that it is worth the extra money for the drive or the cost of the media.

[boniblithe.livejournal.com]

I have the LaCie external drive and while it's occasionally slow to react, it's run just fine and does everything I need.

[azriona.livejournal.com]

I add to the flurry of "internals" with the comment that installation is extremely easy - that is, it was when I did it myself a few years ago, and I don't think they've changed that much of it. So don't let that particular hurdle stop you.

[redina]

I have both internal and external drives. I'd recommend NEC. Data transfer on an internal is, of course, faster versus the USB external. However, external is good for quick sharing between computers. Since you referenced one computer, I'd recommend internal. There are a variety of easy to follow instructions online, if you're not familiar with installation. The one I used to build this computer rig:
http://www.mysuperpc.com/build/pc_install_cdrom.shtml

I like step-by-step pictures. :-) Almost as much as I like ghey pr0n.

Dina