Share this article

Improve this guide

DVD Drive Only Reads & Plays CDs: 3 Ways to Fix it

Issues with DVD drive are caused by configuration problems

4 min. read

Updated onNovember 15, 2023

updated onNovember 15, 2023

Share this article

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

If the DVD drive only reads CDs, you won’t be able to read any DVDs on your PC, and that can be a problem, especially if you have multimedia stored on it.

This can be a big problem if you still rely on a DVD drive, and in today’s guide, we’re going to take a closer look at this issue and show you how to fix it.

Why won’t my DVD drive read my DVD?

What can I do if the DVD drive only reads CDs?

What can I do if the DVD drive only reads CDs?

1. Modify the registry

Many reported that they don’t have these values on their PC. If that’s the case, just move on to the next solution.

2. Physically clean the laser

After doing that, check if the issue is resolved.

3. Check the DVD and disable the burning software

What is the difference between an optical drive and a DVD drive?

How do I get my computer to recognize my DVD drive?

If your DVD drive isn’t recognized, ensure it’s properly connected. Updating its drivers can also help if the drive is not recognized. We covered this issue in detail in ourDVD not working guideand in ourDVD drive not detectedguides, so don’t miss them.

These steps are required if the DVD drive only reads CDs, and we hope you found them helpful. It’s also essential to fixAutoPlay not workingif you have problems with your DVD drive.

Please write us in the comments section below if you have any additional questions related to this article, and we will help you further with your issue.

More about the topics:DVD,Windows 10 issues

Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.

When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.

User forum

4 messages

Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes

Comment*

Name*

Email*

Commenting as.Not you?

Save information for future comments

Comment

Δ

Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.