Windows 7: Blu Ray Drives

Hi...

Was hoping for a bit of guidance please.

I'm looking to add a Blu-Ray drive to my system, simply to play films on my PC.

I've heard that not all Blu-Ray drives actually do this, and that some drives are purely just for data storage and access etc.



Can anyone recommend a drive, and explain how i avoid buying one that doesn't actually play films.

I know this sounds daft, but the last thing i want to do is buy one that won't do i what i want.

Thanks in advance.

Dave.

Theres 2 kinds.
One is a BluRay reader which is capable of reading Bluray, DVD, DL DVD, CD
... But can ONLY burn to CD-DVD-and DL DVD

Then Bluray Burners which can read all the formats as well as burn to them, including burning BD disc. (much more expensive)

Many BluRay drives will have a few Blurays they simply can not read.
Some do better or worse than others.

I like the LG BD drives myself. Mine has been a really good one, and has played nearly everything Ive thrown at it.
I've found 2 BluRays it could not play so fa:
Alien Vs Predator and I,Robot

As far as I am aware, all BD drives for a PC will have a few types they can not read. Although I could be mistaken.

As far as DVD playback, there should be no issues at all. And Windows 7 can handle playback.


The drive itself should be able to read & recognize 99% of all BluRay discs (generally speaking) however to actually play it, you will need playback software such as:

Power DVD, Arcsoft Total Media theater etc..

Most of the time theres playback software included with the drive. Although it may be a stripped version (such as only uses stereo sound only) that you can upgrade at a discount.

I guess there are 3 kinds since one of my BluRay Drives doesn't burn anything, just reads.

I recommend an LG BluRay drive as well.
My LG drive plays I,Robot.