Question : Problem: Decided to Give up on my HL-DT-ST DVD-ROM! What to Buy?

In a recent post I tried to get advice on how to get my DELL OEM DVD-ROM to work again.  The conclusion:  it never will!  Just in case you've got a DELL, about two years old, you too might have a HL-DT-ST DVD-ROM GDR8162B.  In any opinions I found this unit often fails, DELL's tech support hasn't a clue and if it's under warranty they replace it.  But since mine's not under warranty --- I'm in the market for a new one.  What the buzz?

Answer : Problem: Decided to Give up on my HL-DT-ST DVD-ROM! What to Buy?

Well, as I noted in your last question with regard to what to buy as a replacement:

If your goal is as inexpensive as possible, try this:  http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827131408

... if you decide you want to be able to burn as well, you could use this:  http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827106989

... and if you want the best, buy this:  http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827131357

I doubt anyone will disagree with my opinion on Plextor (as confirmed by the posts so far in this thread); and for inexpensive drives Lite-On has a good reputation.   I also agree with willcomp that a NEC is a good intermediate option.  Personally, the only optical drives I ever buy for myself are Plextors :)