The snappily-named BR-X861U2-EU attaches to your computer via any USB 2.0 port and needs no additional power supply or complicated installation.
It's designed for storing, editing and watching high-definition content, or writing large amounts of data to an optical disc. It's also backwards-compatible with DVD and CD.
The 8x drive features built-in CyberLink Blu-ray disc suite software which allows users to watch their DVDs in "near high-definition quality".
"This new external BD drive provides consumers with a low-cost option for watching their own HD content and taking advantage of the latest technology," says Paul Hudson, northern European sales director, Buffalo Technology.
Other key technical features include:
* Up to 8x Blu-ray write using a USB connection with TurboUSB technology
* Up to 5.6x Blu-ray write using USB 2.0 connection·
* 16x DVD-R read/write
* CyberLink Blu-ray Disc Suite includes: PowerDirector, PowerProducer, PowerDVD, Power2Go, PowerBackup, InstandBurn and MediaShow
* Can be used for backing up videos, photos and music
* Two-year Warranty
Buffalo's BR-X816U2-EU is available now from Amazon, Dabs, Insight, Misco and other leading retailers.