LG - GP08-NU10

The nattily named GP08-NU10 is a Super Multi Drive, which means it can do lots of super multiple things. Stop us if we get too technical. It does, of course, refer to this external drive's multiple format capabilities, which means that it can read and write (deep breath) all types of standard CDs and DVDs, both -R and +R, DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL and DVD-RAM discs. It's also compatible with both Mac and PC systems.

The drive is a slim (at just over 2cm in height) and stylish looking unit, finished in glossy white with black trim. It's very much minimalist in design, with only an activity light and eject button on the front of the drive, that's all. It's hooked up to the computer via a supplied USB lead and it runs off the machine's power supply providing that's substantial enough. If your PC hasn't got enough juice, there's a second DC jack to USB cable included, which can be plugged in to draw additional power.