# TLDR Review: LG BP50NB40 Blu-ray Writer

*Published: 2026-02-01 | Updated: 2026-02-01 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/lg-bp50nb40-blu-ray-writer*

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## Product: LG BP50NB40 Blu-ray Writer
**Brand:** LG

## Pros
- Performs exceptionally well for reading and ripping Blu-ray and PS3 game discs, making it a solid choice for emulation and backups.
- Reliable and easy to use once connected properly to a dedicated USB port with sufficient power.
- Works smoothly for digitizing DVDs and Blu-rays, handling large data tasks without slowing down.
- Compatible with Mac OS X and recognized by Windows 10 and 11.
- Silent operation with very good build quality.
- Supports M-DISC for long-term data storage.
- Great for streaming Blu-ray and UHD content through Plex or VLC.
- Included software is optional; the drive works fine without it.
- Ultra-slim and portable design makes it convenient for on-the-go use.
- Effective for PS3 disk recognition, a feature not common for many external drives.

## Cons
- The included micro USB to dual USB-A cable often does not provide enough power, leading to recognition and initialization failures.
- Requires connection to a dedicated USB 3.0 port; unpowered hubs cause functionality issues.
- Does not support Blu-ray or DVD burning despite being labeled a "Blu-ray writer."
- Not suitable for audio CD ripping.
- Sometimes shipped as a refurbished unit even if well-packaged.
- May need manual tweaking to recognize UHD discs properly.

## Bottom Line

The LG 6x BP50NB40 Ultra Slim Portable Blu-ray Writer excels as a reliable external Blu-ray reader, particularly if you're into ripping PS3 games or digitizing media collections. However, be prepared to ditch the included cable for a better quality one and always plug it directly into a powered USB 3.0 port to avoid power-related hiccups. If you want actual Blu-ray burning capabilities, this isn’t your go-to, but for playing, ripping, and backing up discs, it’s a strong contender. For seamless, powered connectivity and performance, this device definitely earns a recommendation from us.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Performs exceptionally well for reading and ripping Blu-ray and PS3 game discs, making it a solid choice for emulation and backups. | The included micro USB to dual USB-A cable often does not provide enough power, leading to recognition and initialization failures. |
| Reliable and easy to use once connected properly to a dedicated USB port with sufficient power. | Requires connection to a dedicated USB 3.0 port; unpowered hubs cause functionality issues. |
| Works smoothly for digitizing DVDs and Blu-rays, handling large data tasks without slowing down. | Does not support Blu-ray or DVD burning despite being labeled a "Blu-ray writer." |
| Compatible with Mac OS X and recognized by Windows 10 and 11. | Not suitable for audio CD ripping. |
| Silent operation with very good build quality. | Sometimes shipped as a refurbished unit even if well-packaged. |
| Supports M-DISC for long-term data storage. | May need manual tweaking to recognize UHD discs properly. |
| Great for streaming Blu-ray and UHD content through Plex or VLC. |  |
| Included software is optional; the drive works fine without it. |  |
| Ultra-slim and portable design makes it convenient for on-the-go use. |  |
| Effective for PS3 disk recognition, a feature not common for many external drives. |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*