How can I connect an external optical drive to a MacBook Pro 16" via USB-C?

can I connect an external optical drive (i.e. asus) to my macbook Pro 16 inch

I'm trying to connect an external optical drive directly to the usb-c but it seems that the Mac doesn't see it



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MacBook Pro (M4)

Posted on May 12, 2025 2:22 AM

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Posted on May 12, 2025 4:36 AM

Yes, you can connect external optical drives to a 16" MacBook Pro via USB-C.


In some cases, you might need to go between USB-A and USB-C – e.g., by using an Apple USB-C to USB adapter, or, if the drive has a detachable cable, by ordering a cable that goes directly from USB-C to whatever type of USB socket there is on the drive.


If we are talking about a portable drive, some drives like to suck down so much power that they want you to hook them up to TWO of your USB ports.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

May 12, 2025 4:36 AM in response to rgambardella66

Yes, you can connect external optical drives to a 16" MacBook Pro via USB-C.


In some cases, you might need to go between USB-A and USB-C – e.g., by using an Apple USB-C to USB adapter, or, if the drive has a detachable cable, by ordering a cable that goes directly from USB-C to whatever type of USB socket there is on the drive.


If we are talking about a portable drive, some drives like to suck down so much power that they want you to hook them up to TWO of your USB ports.

May 12, 2025 4:40 AM in response to rgambardella66

As far as things showing up in the Finder:


  • Go into Finder > Settings… and make sure that you have "CDs, DVDs, and iPods" checked off in the General tab and "CDs, DVDs, and iOS Devices" checked off in the Sidebar tab.
  • Note that empty drives will not show up on the Desktop or in the sidebars of Finder windows. When you insert a disc that has data on it, that disc will show in those places (if Finder Settings say to display discs there).

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How can I connect an external optical drive to a MacBook Pro 16" via USB-C?

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