Reference number: CH000580

Can my CD-ROM, CD-RW, CD-R drive read DVDs?

Question:

Can my CD-ROM, CD-RW, CD-R drive read DVDs?

Answer:

Unless your drive is a DVD drive or a DVD combo drive, which is a drive that is capable of reading multiple types of disc formats including DVDs, it will be unable to read DVD discs.  It is also important to realize that although you may have a drive capable of reading CD-ROM, CD-RW, and CD-R discs, it still may be unable to read DVD discs. However, a DVD+R or DVD+RW drive is also capable of reading DVD discs.

If you are still uncertain about your drive's capabilities, sometimes examining the front of the drive may contain additional information about the drive.

Finally, if you are uncertain of all the capabilities of your drive and you have no documentation, it is recommended you contact your computer manufacturer or your CD drive manufacturer for additional information about your drive.

If you are not sure about the make, manufacturer, or model of your drive, see document CH000495.