Can I use this external SuperDrive if I have a 2012 iMac with a internal drive that works?

The Apple SuperDrive may not work with older Mac’s that have a built-in SuperDrive.

Please check the compatibility at > https://store.apple.com/xc/product/MD564LL/A

IMHO, something like an aftermarket LG USB CD/DVD Drive at half the price, is a better option for older Mac’s with a bad built-in SuperDrive.

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/lg-8x-external-usb-double-layer-dvdrw-cd-rw-drive-black/5852919.p?skuId=5852919

I agree with den.thed; there were two iterations of super drives and one of them would not work with any Mac if you had an internal one. However, that has been so long that I cannot remember the model/serial numbers.

I've been using an external tray loading drive from macsales.com for many years; it is far more reliable and will read just about anything. And, it does not matter if you have a working internal drive or not - having both can come in handy if you want to copy a homemade CD or DVD.

Interesting:

The Apple USB SuperDrive is compatible with Mac models from 2008 and later that don't have a built-in optical drive.

I did not remember that it could not be used with any of them if they had a built in drive.

So Apple is no longer selling the one that was compatible with any of them?

Hi Josheliot,

Yes. The Apple USB Superdrive is to be used with DVDs and CDs with your Mac. It isn't close to being a hard drive or anything that would replace it.

Cheers,

Jack