I got it a year or more ago, so it's probably slower and the features are probably different. It was $100 then.

I've only used it a few times, but it's worked every time. Having burner software in the box helps save aggravation when you're moving it between machines. I can't ask for much more than that.

It is a standard size drive resulting in a fairly large enclosure, and has a power brick, so it's not terribly portable, but I don't have experience with any other external DVD drive that might be smaller.

It'll be pokey over USB 1.1 though. :-(

Recommended.

You might look occasionally at [link|http://stores.ebay.com/Recycle4va_Laptop-Parts_W0QQcolZ4QQdirZ1QQfsubZ6QQftidZ2QQtZkm|Recycle4VA]. They sell used computers and parts. They have some Dell laptop drives, but they're not R/W. I've had good luck with them (for Thinkpad chargers).

HTH. Good luck.

Cheers,
Scott.