ASUS BW-16D1HT Blu-ray Burner Review: 8.4/10 Verdict
Opening with a surprising consensus from multiple platforms, the ASUS BW-16D1HT Blu-ray Burner earns an overall verdict of 8.4/10 based on aggregated user reports. While marketed as an ultra-fast 16X Blu-ray burner with M-DISC support for "lifetime data backup," real-world experiences show this drive is both a workhorse for archivists and a reliable UHD-friendly option—provided users navigate firmware quirks. The performance is praised across Amazon, Reddit, and LDLC, but noise levels and missing playback software temper the enthusiasm.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reliable 16X Blu-ray burning with consistent quality | Requires firmware downgrades for UHD disc compatibility |
| M-DISC and BDXL support for long-term archival storage | No bundled Blu-ray playback software |
| Solid build, works well internally and in external enclosures | Noticeable noise during operation |
| Compatible with a wide range of operating systems | Inconsistent DVD/CD reading for some users |
| Proven track record for ripping UHD Blu-rays after firmware tweaks | Price higher than some competitors |
| Energy-saving E-Green feature | OEM versions may ship without accessories or software |
Claims vs Reality
ASUS promotes the BW-16D1HT as capable of archival-quality storage up to 1,000 years with M-DISC support. For professional archivists and photographers, this promise translates to peace of mind. Reddit user u/vent-bleu confirmed: "A first one bought a few years ago has been used intensively and perfectly." LDLC customers also attest to backing up large photo libraries without error, reinforcing the archival claim.
The 16X Blu-ray writing speed is another headline feature. While official specs suggest burning a 25GB disc in around eight minutes, some users report slower speeds depending on media type. On Quora, Marco G. noted: "My old Pioneer burns BR-R DL discs at 10x, but the same media on this drive only records at 8x." This suggests media compatibility plays a bigger role than marketing implies.
ASUS markets UHD compatibility heavily in community spaces, though not in official specs. Multiple Reddit and Trustpilot users highlight that new firmware versions block UHD playback, requiring downgrades. Charles L. shared: "Out of the box, it doesn't recognize any ultra HD drives. Flashing it with modified firmware fixed the issue in 2 minutes." Thus, while technically capable, UHD functionality often depends on user intervention.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Reddit, and LDLC, one recurring theme is reliability in Blu-ray burning and reading. For media enthusiasts ripping 4K Blu-rays, the BW-16D1HT is a favored choice. Reddit user u/gaetan_seigneur said: "It does what I ask it to do, goes very well with my configuration, and I am very pleased with this great product." Archivists value the M-DISC capability, with LDLC’s utrillo.com noting: "Bought it for backup on Blu-ray M-disc... 1000-year warranty, error rate zero."
The drive’s compatibility with external enclosures expands use cases. Reddit user u/thibaud reported flawless operation after placing the drive in an external box, making it a flexible tool for laptops or systems without internal bays.
Energy-saving features, like E-Green auto-closing, earn praise from environmentally conscious buyers, while build quality is cited as solid. Twitter sentiment reflects satisfaction with its aesthetic and sturdy construction.
Common Complaints
The most persistent complaint involves noise during operation. LDLC’s sylvaina described: "Bright blue light flashes during playback... catches the eye in the dark," and others mention audible tray rumbling. Quora’s Petar Andreev admitted: "The tray rumbles and the drive is really noisy." This is especially noticeable during quiet movie scenes or late-night reading sessions.
Another frustration is the lack of bundled Blu-ray playback software. LDLC’s ly_cayote felt “shocked” to discover this omission, noting the extra €100 often required for proprietary software. This impacts casual users who expect plug-and-play movie viewing.
DVD/CD reading inconsistency appears sporadically. LDLC’s anonymous reviewer mentioned: "Plays CDs and DVDs very randomly, some pass, others don’t," suggesting that while Blu-ray performance is strong, legacy disc formats may be less reliable.
Divisive Features
The UHD ripping capability divides users. Enthusiasts willing to flash firmware find the drive invaluable for 4K backups, as Hunter S. on Trustpilot confirmed: "Manufacturers started releasing firmware to spin the drive when UHD media is detected... you'll need to downgrade." However, less tech-savvy buyers may be frustrated by the extra steps.
Noise tolerance also varies; some find it negligible compared to speed, while others consider it a deal-breaker. Andrey Koulev appreciated the build but admitted: "Buzzing can be rather loud on the floor of the apartment at night."
Trust & Reliability
Long-term durability stories are consistent. Reddit user u/icet_drinker noted: "Works well... you can't ask the moon from an optical drive," after years of use. LDLC’s francky14 kept a unit for four years before buying another for a second PC, citing consistent backup results.
Trustpilot reviews reveal some scam concerns around OEM versions—drives shipping without cables or accessories and lacking software. Stanislaw Szczesny advised: "Make sure the SATA cable is included... order it concurrently with the purchase." No major counterfeit issues emerged, but buyers should verify packaging and firmware version upon receipt.
Alternatives
Some users compare the BW-16D1HT to LG Blu-ray drives, often noting that ASUS handles 3-layer BDXL discs better. Dee F. on Trustpilot said: "No problems with 3-layer BDXL discs, unlike LG devices." Older Pioneer models may write certain media faster, as Marco G. observed, but lack M-DISC support.
Price & Value
On eBay, new units range from $98.99 to $171.75, with UHD-friendly firmware versions fetching up to $245.75. Used prices hover around $49.95–$70, showing decent resale value. Buyers seeking UHD capability often pay a premium for pre-flashed units. Community advice leans toward purchasing from reputable sellers to avoid firmware-blocked stock.
FAQ
Q: Does the ASUS BW-16D1HT work with Windows 11?
A: Yes. Official specs list compatibility with Windows XP through Windows 11, and LDLC user astarot confirmed flawless operation under Windows 11.
Q: Can it play UHD 4K Blu-rays out of the box?
A: Not always. Many recent firmware versions block UHD playback. Users report success after downgrading firmware to versions like 3.02.
Q: How noisy is the drive?
A: Noise levels vary. Some find it minimal, others cite tray rumbling and buzz during reading. It’s more noticeable in quiet environments.
Q: What software do I need for Blu-ray playback?
A: The drive doesn’t include Blu-ray playback software. Free options like Leawo Blu-ray Player work, while Cyberlink PowerDVD offers full menu access.
Q: Is M-DISC burning truly archival?
A: Users backing up photos and videos report zero errors over years of use. M-DISC’s non-volatile data layer is designed for centuries-long storage.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re an archivist, media enthusiast, or UHD ripper willing to handle firmware tweaks. Avoid if you expect plug-and-play movie viewing without extra software or are highly sensitive to operational noise. Community pro tip: verify firmware version before purchase to ensure UHD compatibility, and budget for playback software if needed.
