I-O Data releases external 18x DVD burner

It's not the smallest external DVD burner, but I-O Data's new external drive does look to be among the top of the heap (for now) when it comes to speed, burning both DVD+R and DVD-R discs at a satisfying 18x. Other write speeds clock in at 10x for dual-layer DVD+R, 8x for DVD+RW and dual-layer DVD-R, 6x for DVD-RW, with CD-R and CD-RW speeds coming in at 48x and 32x respectively. Unfortunately, it isn't USB-powered, so you'll still need to settle for slower speeds if you need stay completely mobile at all times. You'll also have to do the importing thing to get you hands on one these, of course, with it setting you back a not-too-unreasonable 12,500 Yen, or just slightly over a hundred bucks.

[Via Akihabara News]