superdrive specifications

Because the Apple USB SuperDrive has not been since summer 2012, I am considering this one:

https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/MR3USD24/

for a number of reasons:

• It is a newer design
• Costs the same as a SuperDrive
• Tray-load drives are more reliable and versitle than slot-load drives
• Being USB3, not USB2 like the SuperDrive, it is faster.
• It has a more reliable independent power source. The SuperDrive must get all power from the computer USB port—not as reliable.
• If the dog chews up the cabling of the OWC unit, you can oder new cables. If the dog eats the cable on a SuperDrive, you order a new SuperDrive.

I'm sure there are more. Gives you the idea at least. The SuperDrive needs a update.

With either, you need a USB-A to USB-C adaptor to work with the new iMac's USB-C/ThunderBolt ports. Like this one from Apple:

USB-C to USB Adapter - Apple

or one from OWC:

https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/TCCADPU3/

I read user reviews, look for Mac compatibility statements, and generally just buy what seems a good bet. Mostly I get it right; I haven't from times to time.

There is no absolute that can tell you any device will be 100% compatible before you try it. You have to rely on some metric and you have to decide what it is you feel is moat accurate when it comes to ads that make all sorts of glowing statements.

Even two "identical" drives (SuperDrives to be exact) may not work equally well on different Macs.

FWIW, You cannot connect a SuperDrive to a hub or dock. It has to be plugged directly into a port using a USB to USB C adapter or the Apple AV Multi-port adapter. I have one that works fine on an M1 MacBook Air.

I'm having some typo issues today. 🤣

Allan Jones wrote:

Because the Apple USB SuperDrive has not been since summer 2012, I am considering this one:

Has not been what? Works fine for me. 😎