Apple DVD Super Drive

The drive itself senses the kind of media (CD vs DVD etc.) that is loaded.

The Apple USB SuperDrive has not been updated for 10-12 years. I have seen problems with it on Sonoma.

Regarding choices for a new drive, I have been very pleased with the Pioneer drives. I currently have one of their BDR models (BDR-XD08S) and it's excellent. (I suggest getting the power adapter too so you don't rely on bus power when burning a disc.)

What type of DVDs are you using?

DVD -R, -R DL, -RW, +R, +R DL, and +RW discs should work – at least if the screen capture in this thread is any guide.

Cannot burn video files from my MacBook P… - Apple Community

DVD-RAM ones aren't supported. I'm not sure how they show up (if at all), but if you are using those, get rid of them, and try one of the other types.

Let's hope the Amazon refurb does the trick. For most Apple accessories I (and many other experienced users) like OWC, why because the specialize in Macs, everything is tested to ensure it works, great prices and top notch service. You can find them at macsales.com

Does it play as it should? Are you worried because it doesn't identify the media as a DVD????

For what it’s worth I use a SuperDrive on my M1 Studio Max (Sonoma 14.3.1) without issues. It’s not Sonoma.