ASUS SBW-06D5H-U Ultra-Slim Portable USB 3.1 Gen 1 Blu-ray Burner Overview
The ASUS SBW-06D5H-U is an ultra-slim portable Blu-ray burner that combines high-performance optical media writing with a sleek, compact design. This device is perfect for users who need a reliable and portable solution for burning and reading Blu-ray, DVD, and CD discs. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, physical media remains relevant for long-term storage, data archiving, and media playback. The SBW-06D5H-U addresses these needs while offering advanced features and modern connectivity options.
The Blu-ray burner is designed to cater to both professional and personal users who require high-capacity storage, the ability to back up large files, and the convenience of Blu-ray disc playback. The inclusion of a USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface ensures fast data transfer speeds, making it ideal for users who work with large files, such as high-definition videos, large databases, and complex software installations.
Product Description
The ASUS SBW-06D5H-U is a sleek and ultra-slim portable Blu-ray burner that measures just 12 mm in thickness, making it one of the slimmest external Blu-ray burners on the market. Despite its slim profile, it delivers exceptional performance, capable of burning Blu-ray discs at speeds of up to 6x. The drive supports various disc formats, including BD-R, BD-RE, BD-R DL, BD-RE DL, DVD±R, DVD±RW, DVD±R DL, DVD-RAM, and CD-R/RW, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of media.
The USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface provides fast data transfer rates, reducing the time required to burn or read large files. This modern connectivity option is compatible with both Windows and macOS, offering broad compatibility with contemporary devices. The drive is powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply and enhancing its portability.
One of the standout features of the SBW-06D5H-U is its support for BDXL discs, which can hold up to 128 GB of data on a single disc. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need to store large amounts of data on a durable, long-lasting medium. Additionally, the drive supports M-DISC technology, providing archival-quality storage that can last for up to 1,000 years, making it ideal for preserving important data and memories.
The ASUS SBW-06D5H-U comes with a suite of software that enhances its functionality, including CyberLink Power2Go 8, which offers comprehensive disc burning and backup solutions. This software package is easy to use and provides all the tools needed for creating, copying, and managing discs.
Key Features
1. Ultra-Slim and Portable Design
The SBW-06D5H-U is designed with portability in mind. Its ultra-slim profile, at just 12 mm thick, makes it easy to carry in a laptop bag or backpack, making it ideal for professionals on the go.
2. USB 3.1 Gen 1 Interface
The inclusion of a USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface ensures fast data transfer speeds, which are essential when dealing with large files. The backward compatibility with USB 2.0 ensures that the drive can be used with a wide range of devices.
3. Blu-ray Disc Support
The drive supports a wide range of Blu-ray disc formats, including BD-R, BD-RE, BD-R DL, and BD-RE DL, with burning speeds of up to 6x. This makes it a versatile tool for burning high-definition video, large data backups, and more.
4. BDXL and M-DISC Support
The SBW-06D5H-U supports BDXL discs, allowing you to store up to 128 GB of data on a single disc. It also supports M-DISC technology, which provides archival-quality storage designed to last up to 1,000 years, making it ideal for long-term data preservation.
5. CyberLink Power2Go 8 Software
The drive comes with CyberLink Power2Go 8, a comprehensive software package that offers a range of disc burning, backup, and data management tools. This software is user-friendly and provides all the functionality needed for creating and managing discs.
6. Compatibility with Windows and macOS
The SBW-06D5H-U is compatible with both Windows and macOS, ensuring broad usability across different operating systems. This makes it a versatile choice for users with multiple devices or those who switch between platforms.
7. Stylish and Elegant Design
The drive features a brushed metal finish that not only enhances its durability but also gives it a sleek and modern look. Its minimalist design ensures that it complements any workspace or setup.
8. Plug-and-Play Functionality
The drive offers plug-and-play functionality, meaning it can be used right out of the box without the need for additional drivers or software installation. This makes it convenient for users who need a quick and easy optical drive solution.
9. Energy-Efficient Operation
The SBW-06D5H-U is designed to be energy-efficient, with features such as automatic sleep mode when not in use. This helps conserve power and prolongs the life of the drive, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
10. Noise Reduction Technology
The drive incorporates noise reduction technology, ensuring quiet operation even during high-speed burning processes. This is particularly useful in quiet environments where noise can be disruptive.
Specifications
Model
SBW-06D5H-U
Color
BLACK
Read Speed (max)
BD-ROM : 6X
BD-R(SL, M-DISC) : 6X
BD-RE : 6X
DVD-ROM : 8X
DVD+R : 8X
DVD-R : 8X
DVD+R(SL, M-DISC) : 8X
DVD+RW : 8X
DVD-RW : 8X
DVD+R(DL) : 8X
DVD-R(DL) : 8X
DVD-RAM : 5X
CD-ROM : 24X
CD-R : 24X
Write Speed (max)
BD-R : 6X
BD-R(SL, M-DISC) : 4X
BD-R(DL) : 6X
BD-R(TL/QL) : 4X
BD-RE : 2X
DVD+R : 8X
DVD-R : 8X
DVD+R(SL, M-DISC) : 4X
DVD+RW : 8X
DVD-RW : 6X
DVD+R(DL) : 4X
DVD-R(DL) : 4X
DVD-RAM : 5X
CD-R : 24X
CD-RW : 10X
Interface
USB 3.2 Gen1x1 (Type-C + Type-A)
O/S Compatibility
Windows® 11
Windows® 10
Windows® 8 / 8.1
Mac OS® X 10.6 and above
System Requirements
CPU: Intel® Pentium® D 945(3.4 GHz) or higher
RAM: 1 GB or more is recommended
HDD: 10 GB or more
Graphics Card: NVIDIA® GeForce® 7600 GT or ATI X1600 series or above
Use HDCP Compatible display and VGA card to High Definition digital output
Power Requirement
USB Power +5V ± 5%
Bundled Software (Windows OS)
CyberLink Power2Go 8
CyberLink PowerBackup 2.6
Nero BackItUp
Dimensions
149.4 x 144 x 14.7 mm (L/W/H)
Weight
265 ± 30 g
Packing
Retail Box
Review
Performance
The ASUS SBW-06D5H-U delivers excellent performance as a portable Blu-ray burner. Its ability to burn Blu-ray discs at speeds of up to 6x ensures that even large files can be written quickly and efficiently. The USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface further enhances performance by providing fast data transfer speeds, which is especially beneficial when working with high-definition video files or large data backups.
The drive's support for BDXL discs and M-DISC technology sets it apart from other portable Blu-ray burners on the market. BDXL discs offer up to 128 GB of storage on a single disc, making them ideal for users who need to store large amounts of data. M-DISC technology ensures that data is preserved for up to 1,000 years, providing peace of mind for users who need long-term archival storage.
The included CyberLink Power2Go 8 software is a comprehensive tool that enhances the drive's functionality. It offers a range of features, including disc burning, backup, and data management, all of which are easy to use and highly effective. The software’s interface is intuitive, making it accessible even for users who are not particularly tech-savvy.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the SBW-06D5H-U is one of its most impressive features. The ultra-slim profile and brushed metal finish give the drive a premium look and feel, while its compact size makes it easy to carry around. Despite its slim design, the drive feels solid and well-built, with no noticeable flexing or creaking.
The drive’s minimalist design ensures that it complements any workspace, and its lightweight construction means it can be easily transported in a laptop bag or backpack. The USB-powered operation adds to its portability, as there is no need for an external power adapter.
User Experience
The user experience with the SBW-06D5H-U is overwhelmingly positive. The drive is easy to set up and use, with plug-and-play functionality that eliminates the need for additional drivers or software installation. The USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface ensures fast and reliable performance, and the drive operates quietly thanks to its noise reduction technology.
The CyberLink Power2Go 8 software enhances the overall user experience by providing a range of tools for disc burning, backup, and data management. The software is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible for users of all experience levels. The inclusion of BDXL and M-DISC support further enhances the drive’s versatility and usefulness.
Pros
Ultra-slim and portable: Easy to carry and store.
USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface: Fast data transfer and modern connection.
Blu-ray, BDXL, and M-DISC support: Versatile and reliable for long-term storage.
CyberLink Power2Go 8 software: Comprehensive disc burning and backup solutions.
Stylish design: Brushed metal finish and sleek appearance.
Plug-and-play: Simple setup without needing additional drivers.
Quiet operation: Noise reduction technology for quiet environments.
Cons
No Blu-ray UHD support: Limited to standard Blu-ray discs.
No bundled USB Type-C adapter: Requires an additional purchase for devices with USB-C ports.
Warranty Details
The ASUS SBW-06D5H-U comes with a 2-year limited warranty. This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship, ensuring that the device will be repaired or replaced if it fails under normal use during the warranty period. ASUS provides customer support through its website, where users can register their product, submit warranty claims, and access troubleshooting resources.
07-Days Refund/Return/Exchange Policy
ASUS offers a 07-day refund/return/exchange policy for the SBW-06D5H-U. If the product is defective or does not meet the user's expectations, they can return it within 07 days of purchase for a full refund, exchange, or repair. The product must be returned in its original packaging and include all accessories, documentation, and proof of purchase. The refund or exchange process typically takes a few business days, depending on the retailer's policies.
Conclusion
The ASUS SBW-06D5H-U Ultra-Slim Portable USB 3.1 Gen 1 Blu-ray Burner is a powerful and versatile optical drive that offers a range of features in a compact and stylish package. Its support for Blu-ray, BDXL, and M-DISC formats makes it an excellent choice for users who need to burn, read, and archive large amounts of data. The inclusion of USB 3.1 Gen 1 ensures fast data transfer speeds, and the drive's ultra-slim design makes it easy to carry and use on the go.
While it may lack some advanced features like Blu-ray UHD support, the SBW-06D5H-U excels in its core functionality, providing reliable performance, high-capacity storage options, and long-term data preservation. The 2-year warranty and 07-day refund/return/exchange policy further enhance its value, offering peace of mind to users who invest in this device.
Whether you're a professional who needs to back up large files, a media enthusiast who wants to enjoy high-definition Blu-ray content, or a user who values long-term data storage, the ASUS SBW-06D5H-U is a worthy investment that delivers on its promises. Its combination of portability, performance, and versatility makes it one of the best portable Blu-ray burners available today.