Description
The ASUS Turbo Drive BW-16D1H-U PRO stands as a powerhouse in the external optical drive market, combining extreme 16X Blu-ray writing speeds with robust data security features. Designed for users who require reliable physical backups and high-fidelity media access, this drive utilizes a USB 3.0 interface to ensure rapid data transfer and stable performance. Its sleek, diamond-cut aesthetic is complemented by a detachable stand, allowing for both horizontal and vertical placement to save desk space.
This product is for:
- Digital Archivists: Individuals looking to preserve family photos and videos for centuries using M-DISC technology.
- Content Creators: Professionals needing to offload large video projects onto high-capacity BDXL discs (up to 128GB).
- Home Theater Enthusiasts: Users wanting to upscale standard DVDs to near-HD quality via Magic Cinema technology.
- IT Professionals: System administrators requiring secure, encrypted physical backups with password protection.
- Mac and PC Power Users: Those seeking a cross-platform compatible optical solution for modern laptops lacking internal drives.
Detailed specifications:
- Interface: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A)
- Maximum Write Speeds: 16X BD-R, 16X DVD±R, 40X CD-R
- Maximum Read Speeds: 12X BD-ROM, 16X DVD-ROM, 40X CD-ROM
- Disc Formats: BDXL (TL/QL), BD-R/RE, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, M-DISC, CD-R/RW
- OS Support: Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8; Mac OS X 10.6 and above
- Dimensions: 243 x 165 x 63 mm (with stand)
- Included Software: Nero BackItUp, CyberLink Power2Go 8, Magic Cinema (Windows only)
Operating the BW-16D1H-U PRO is a seamless experience, characterized by its "Turbo Drive" capability which significantly reduces the time required to burn large datasets. The inclusion of Nero BackItUp for Windows users offers a one-click solution for securing mobile and PC data. During playback, the drive remains remarkably quiet, and the Magic Cinema suite effectively breathes new life into older DVD collections by enhancing visual clarity. The build quality feels premium, and the physical power switch provides a tactile sense of control over the hardware.
Compared to standard portable slim drives, the BW-16D1H-U PRO offers significantly faster 16X write speeds versus the typical 6X found in mobile variants. While it requires an external power adapter unlike bus-powered slim drives, the trade-off is superior stability and the ability to handle triple-layer (TL) and quad-layer (QL) BDXL discs. Its M-DISC compatibility is more reliable than standard optical writers, specifically engineered to withstand the higher laser intensity required for etching data into the rock-like recording layer.
Q&A:
- Does this drive support 4K UHD Blu-ray playback? This model is optimized for standard Blu-ray and BDXL data writing; 4K UHD playback depends on specific software, HDCP 2.2 monitors, and Intel SGX support which may vary by system.
- Is the ASUS BW-16D1H-U PRO compatible with macOS? Yes, it provides plug-and-play functionality for reading and writing data on Mac OS X 10.6 and above.
- What is M-DISC and why should I use it? M-DISC is an archival-grade storage medium that resists light, temperature, and humidity, lasting up to 1,000 years compared to the 5-10 year lifespan of standard discs.
- Can I use this drive vertically? Yes, the package includes a detachable stand that allows the drive to operate safely in a vertical orientation to save workspace.
- Does it require two USB ports for power? No, because it uses a dedicated external power adapter, it only requires a single USB 3.0 port for data transfer, ensuring maximum burning stability.
