We recently purchased a 2025 Mac mini. When I went to plug in our external DVD player it says USB Accessory needs power. I'm thinking because the unit is from 2012 that it may be too old. What do you recommend would be best to replace it. Thanks for any help.
I’d suggest that you try a powered USB hub to give your current burner the extra juice it needs or upgrading to an external optical drive designed for newer Macs.
One I suggest is the Apple USB SuperDrive, but here are a couple non-Apple drives I can also suggest that you consider:
I had already purchased and am using Hiearcool USB C Hub, USB C Multi-Port Adapter for MacBook Pro, 7IN1 USB C to HDMI Hub Dongle Compatible for USB C Laptops and Other Type C Devices (4K HDMI USB3.0 SD/TF Card Reader 100W PD) So do you think that one is not strong enough? I'd rather just buy a new burner but wondering what would be the best one. Thank you for your help.
Looks like that USB hub can handle up to 100W of power by connecting an external power adapter to it (as you can see in one of the images provided on the Amazon site.) That should be more than adequate. Worst case, is if it doesn't work out, Amazon has a pretty good return policy.
As far as DVD/CD burners, any of the ones I mentioned could be the "best one." If you go with one of the non-Apple ones, just know the vendor's return policy. For Apple, you already know they offer a 14-day return.
I’m so sorry. I misunderstood and thought those two products were hubs. Thank you for your suggestions, I’ll check them out.
The Apple Super Drive will work without extra power. I think Apple stopped selling it, but you can still find it for sale and it's not expensive.
External DVD/CD Burner for Mac Mini
