Storage · The Aluminum Age · 2008
Apple USB SuperDrive
When the MacBook Air ditched built-in optical media, the USB SuperDrive kept DVDs alive as an optional accessory.
External optical drive for the MacBook Air era.
Apple USB SuperDrive: key facts
When was the Apple USB SuperDrive released?
The Apple USB SuperDrive arrived in January 2008.
How much did the Apple USB SuperDrive cost?
The Apple USB SuperDrive launched at $79 in 2008, about $118 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: 8.3 GB storage, USB.
Why does the Apple USB SuperDrive matter?
External optical drive for the MacBook Air era.
Full specifications
| CPU | — |
|---|---|
| Cores | — |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | 8.3 GB |
| Display | — |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | USB |
| Weight | Varies by model |
| Dimensions | External slot-loading optical drive |
| Operating system | Driver/firmware support |
| Released | January 2008 |
| Discontinued | — |
| Launch price | $79 |
How the Apple USB SuperDrive compares to today
This held about 2,130 modern phone photos, a respectable library even today.
Launched at $79 in 2008, about $118 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Did you know?
It outlived optical drives inside Macs by many years.
Related Storage models
Open the Apple USB SuperDrive in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11