Nero Burning Rom Alternatives


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havo465ij5.gif

150 MB? No, Thanks!

zipe75a1yt9.gifCDBurnerXP

License: Freeware

Screenshot: Here

Size: 11.02 MB

Operating systems: 98/ME/2000/XP/2003 Server.

My Rating: Very Good - for a freebie, but Microsoft .NET Framework is a big obstacle for me.

CDBurnerXP is an easy to use CD/DVD burning software, that can write CD-R and CD-RW discs. The program can also write disks directly from an ISO image file, and save image as an ISO image file (*.iso). You can create data and audio CDs, and it supports Burn-Proof technology, multi-session disks, import of ISO images and more. In addition to CD burning, you can also rip audio CDs, normalize WAV files, encode MP3 files, erase disks, . CDBurnerXP does not require ASPI when used under for NT/2000/XP.

The main features

Create Data-CDs/DVDs

  • burn any Data on CD-R/CD-RW/DVD+R/DVD-R/DVD+RW/DVD-RW
  • burn mp3-CDs to store many audio files on one single disc
  • create bootable discs
  • verify written Data automatically after burning process
  • use either the internal browser to add your files or the intuitive Drop-Box to drag and drop files directly from any Windows Explorer window
  • apply file filters to see only the files you need (for example *.jpg to display only JPEG files in local browser)
  • save your compilations for creation of backups
  • burn on-the-fly and with buffer-underrun protections
  • import previous (ISO 9660) sessions and edit existing file structure on CD/DVD
  • quick- and full-erase disc
  • retrieve recorder and disc information

Create Audio-CDs

  • create Audio-CDs from mp3, wav, ogg and wma* files
  • add single or multiple tracks from existing audio-CDs directly to your new compilation without ripping tracks before (add cda-files)
  • play audio-files with integrated audio player
  • gapless audio-CDs supported (disc-at-once-mode)
  • import m3u-playlists
  • *only available for Win98SE and later

Rip Audio-CDs

  • rip tracks from any audio-CD to wav, mp3, wma or ogg
  • download album information from online database
  • sort ripped files in subdirectory automatically (based on information you get from online database)
  • supports jitter-correction ripping modes to rip tracks from scratched CDs

ISO features

  • burn ISO files to CD
  • create your own ISO files
  • convert bin- and nrg-files to ISO

Other features

  • simple cover printing feature for Data- and Audio-CDs
  • Audio Editor
  • MP3 Tag-Editor
  • converter for audio files (wav+mp3)
  • supports most IDE, USB, Firewire and SCSI drives
  • ASPI not required for NT/2000/XP
  • integrated option to enable access to drive for restricted users
  • lots of settings to customize CDBurnerXP
  • online update

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zpap9.pngBurnAware Free

License: Freeware

Screenshot: Here

Size: 5.9MB

Operating systems: NT/2000/XP/Vista/7 (32 and 64 Bit), .Net framework is NOT required

My Rating: Good - BurnAware Free does exactly what is says, nothing more. A good and most importantly free alternative to things like Nero, at least if your needs are just simple burning. A ''Pro'' shareware version is available with more features.

This program automatically installs the Ask.com toolbar unless you opt-out.

BurnAware allows you to easily perform the most common disc burning tasks: write to all CD/DVD media types, including Blue-Ray; write Audio CDs and DVD-Video files; create and burn disc images; write multi-session discs and much more. BurnAware Free is one of the most popular free CD, DVD, Blu-ray Disc burning software available for Windows. Using this program you can easily create and burn Audio and MP3 CD, Data and DVD-Video disc, ISO and Cue Image, erase or format rewritable disc, copy your CD or DVD to ISO image.

The main features

With BurnAware you are able to:

  • Burn Data, Bootable and Multisession discs
  • Burn Audio, Video and MP3 discs
  • Create and burn ISO/CUE/BIN images
  • Copy discs to ISO images
  • Erase rewritable discs

Supports:

  • All media types (CD/DVD/Blu-ray Disc) including Double Layer
  • All current hardware interfaces (IDE/SCSI/USB/1394/SATA) including AHCI
  • UDF/ISO9660/Joliet file systems (any combination)
  • On-the-fly writing (no staging to hard drive first)
  • Verification of written files
  • Multisession DVD-RW/DVD+RW
  • Unicode CD-Text (tracks and disc)

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ashampooburningstudio3cx7.gifAshampoo Burning Studio

License: Shareware; $49.99 Free Version with less features Available Here 8.3MB

Screenshot: Here

Size: 71.99MB

Operating systems: XP/Vista/Windows 7

My Rating: Very Good - Ashampoo Burning Studio is everything you need it to be, and you just can't beat German engineering. Ashampoo Burning Studio is the perfect Nero replacement, small size, extreme fast speed, superb features and clear user interface, whatever you are a veteran or a beginner, you will feel it's developed for you. The 2010 version added more features but the overall size increased up to 80MB. At this point if you really want to replace NERO give it a try if not switch to ImgBurn for smaller size and powerful features.

Ashampoo Burning Studio users are unusually loyal, with good reason – this program’s speed, simplicity and efficiency are simply unbeatable. Over the years the Ashampoo programmers have turned the program into a full suite that can handle all your data, audio and video burning and authoring tasks, without sacrificing its famous ease of use. In version 10 they have once again added a wealth of new features and modules, but the program is still amazingly intuitive to use – everything is explained as you do it. The main focus of this premium version is even better authoring capabilities for building video and audio discs using the latest formats. HD and Full HD video (720p and 1080p) are now fully supported for Blu-ray discs, and all the encoding is handled by Ashampoo Burning Studio 10. All the authoring tools have been overhauled and the video encoding quality is even better than before. You now use the same new integrated editor for building DVD and Blu-ray video disks with menus. The program also starts more quickly and is generally snappier to use. In addition to this there is a new Autoplay Editor module with which you can build auto-starting data discs with attractive interactive menus – for example for collections of programs. And there is now also a new Audio Player with which you can play audio files and audio CDs without leaving the program.

The main features

With Ashampoo Burning Studio you are able to:

  • Create MP3 CDs/DVDs/Blu-ray discs
  • Burn Movies as Video DVD, Video CD (VCD) or Super Video CD (S-VCD)
  • Create and burn CD/DVD/Blu-ray Images
  • Load and save project files
  • Erase CD-RWs / DVD+RWs / DVD-RWs / BD-REs
  • Drag&Drop functions for adding files directly from the Windows® Explorer
  • Supports file names with up to 127 characters for DVDs and Blu-ray and 64 characters for CDs
  • Burn speed and other options can all be set automatically
  • Burns WAV, MP3, FLAC, WMA and Ogg Vorbis files directly to Audio CDs without any plugins
  • Create copies from audio, video or data discs easily
  • Interactive troubleshooting assistant that helps to solve hardware and media problems
  • Integrated support for over 1,700 CD, DVD and Blu-ray burners
  • And more.....

The new Ashampoo Burning Studio is the all-round tool for all CD, DVD and Blu-ray disc burning tasks. The main focus of this faster, more powerful premium version is even better authoring capabilities for building video and audio discs using the latest formats. HD and Full HD video are now fully supported for Blu-ray discs, and all the encoding is handled by Ashampoo Burning Studio.

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XDjqA.pngNero BurnLite 10

License: Freeware but Ad-Supported

Screenshot: Here

Size: 32 MB

Operating systems: XP/Vista/Windows 7

My Rating: Poor - Nero BurnLite doesn't says anything new to me. Nero AG try to rescue the boat that sinks building a ''Lite'' version of his over bloated Nero Multimedia Suite 10 Platinum HD but it fails horribly by stripping down all the useful features for a normal use and forcing the users to install the ASK toolbar. Good only if you want to give away your old computer to Grandma.

This version of Nero BurnLite 10 contains simply data burning and disc copying features for CDs and DVDs. Additional features and functionality are available with an upgrade to Nero Burning ROM or Nero Multimedia Suite 10. Nero BurnLite 10 installs the Ask toolbar without the users consent, here is how to install Nero 10 Free version without Ask Toolbar.

Supported media for burning:

  • CD-R
  • CD-RW
  • DVD±R
  • DVD±RW
  • DVD-RAM
  • DVD±R DL

Supported disc formats:

  • Data CD (ISO, UDF, ISO/UDF)
  • Data DVD (ISO, UDF, ISO/UDF)

Note:

On 64-bit operating systems, applications run in 32-bit emulation mode

The devices must be correctly installed and recognized by the operating system for the product to work properly

Installation of the latest WHQL certified device drivers is strongly recommended

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GX1cU.pngPrassi Ones

License: Shareware; $24.40

Screenshot: Here

Size: 6 MB

Operating systems: 98/ME/2000/XP

My Rating: Good - The price is atractive has a lot of features. Prassi Ones has a clean interface so is very easy to use. A good Nero perfect replacement for XP based systems. Not sure about the compatibility with VISTA / Windows 7, Prassi Ones hasn't been updated since 2006.

ONES has been designed to meet the needs of both beginners and experienced users alike, thanks to its intuitive and user-friendly interface. ONES is different from other CD/DVD burning software as it uses an innovative new recording technology which means that it can function with any existing or future CD/DVD recorder. Updates are no longer necessary. ONES stands out from the crowd in implementing innovative recording technology with a unique Fuzzy Logic approach. It’s a totally driver-less application that will not require new versions to manage most of the new CD and DVD recording drives that are coming to the market. Burn easily DVD Video, DVD ROM, Audio CD, CD Rom, CD Ex.

The main features

  • Dynamic interface for both beginners and power users.
  • Burn easily DVD Video, DVD ROM, Audio CD, CD Rom, CD Extra, Video CD and much more...
  • User is shielded to make setting mistakes.
  • Totally Driverless Application; no frequent download updates are needed.
  • Create easily Audio compilations from MP3, WMA or WAV.
  • Easy and understandable Overburning.
  • Full support of CD-R 100 Min.
  • True recording speed.
  • DVD Native application open to all new DVD standards.

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OLVDS.pngPadus DiscJuggler Professional

License: Shareware; $59.00

Screenshot: Here

Size: 10 MB

Operating systems: 98/ME/2000/XP

My Rating: Very Good - The price is not so atractive but Padus DiscJuggler has a lot of features. A little outdated since the last version made available was on 2006.

DiscJuggler Standard Edition, DiscJuggler Professional Edition and DiscJuggler.NET are software applications designed to do a variety of tasks with optical storage discs. Each of these products support the Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/2003 operating systems, but not all features may function on older operating systems. The program’s feature set is designed to provide any CD or DVD writing drive owner with a comprehensive set of disc creation, duplication, and extraction functions in a straightforward user interface.

The main features of DiscJuggler Standard Edition

  • Support for Microsoft® Windows™ 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP/2003
  • Independent ASPI layer
  • CD writing methods:
  • Track-At-Once
  • Session-At-Once
  • Disc-At-Once
  • RAW Disc-At-Once (with full PQ/R-W sub-code support and the ability to burn multiple sessions at once)
  • CD-TEXT (read and write)
  • CDDB (on-the-fly conversion to and from CD-TEXT, ID3 tags, and Windows Media tags)
  • Multiple indexes with variable gaps and hi-speed transitions search
  • High speed digital audio extraction with multiple jitter correction and resynchronization algorithms
  • ISRC and UPC
  • Low level algorithms for ECC/EDC scrambling and full PQ sub-code generations
  • On-the-fly high speed compression and decompression of mp3 and Windows Media audio streams
  • Support for CD+G (Karaoke) encoding and decoding
  • CD file systems supported:
  • ISO-9660
  • Joliet
  • UDF
  • Bridge (any combination of the above)
  • CD file system extensions supported:
  • XA / Bridge
  • El Torito (bootable)
  • Apple hybrid
  • CD formats supported:
  • CD-DA
  • CD+G
  • CD-ROM
  • CD-XA
  • CD+ (Enhanced CD)
  • Mixed Mode
  • Video CD
  • Super Video CD
  • Photo CD
  • Multi-session CD
  • High speed pre-mastering engine (>52x CD speed)
  • Support for all CD drives currently available (SCSI and ATAPI)
  • Full support for FireWire (IEEE-1394) and USB protocols
  • Support for buffer under-run prevention technologies including: BURN-Proof™, JustLink™, Power-Burn™, SafeBurn™, and Seamless Link
  • Support for optimized write strategies including: PoweRec™ and PoweRec II™
  • Support for high quality CD-DA mastering technologies including: AudioMASTER™, VariRec™, and VariRec II™
  • Support for density increasing technologies including: GigaRec

DiscJuggler Professional Edition Net contains all of the features listed above, including the following features.

  • Shared Network Writer(s) for CD/DVD writing over LAN/WAN
  • Single NT service for the complete server front-end and back-end
  • Fully functional web interface for administrative and client tasks
  • Administrative control available via: Padus Network Console, Web
  • Client interaction available via: Padus Network Console, DiscJuggler, Web
  • Automatic repair of invalid VIDEO_TS structures
  • Support for setting DVD-ROM BookType
  • DVD writing methods:
  • Session-At-Once
  • Disc-At-Once
  • DVD file systems supported:
  • ISO-9660
  • UDF
  • Bridge (any combination of the above)
  • DVD file system extensions supported:
  • El Torito (bootable)
  • Apple hybrid
  • DVD formats supported:
  • DVD-ROM
  • DVD-Video
  • DVD-Audio
  • High speed pre-mastering engine (>52x CD speed, >16x DVD speed)
  • Support for all CD and DVD drives currently available (SCSI and ATAPI)
  • Support for CD/DVD autoloaders (special license only)

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T0X0O.pngInfraRecorder

License: Freeware

Screenshot: Here

Size: 3.53 MB

Operating systems: 2000/XP/Vista/7

My Rating: Very Good - The price is awesome (free), Infra Recorder is made by the same author of TUGzip and is based on CDRtools technology.

The main features

  • Create custom data, audio and mixed-mode projects and record them to physical discs as well as disc images.
  • Blank (erase) rewritable discs using four different methods.
  • Record disc images.
  • Fixate discs (write lead-out information to prevent further data from beeing added to the disc).
  • Scan the SCSI/IDE bus for devices and collect information about their capabilities.
  • Create disc copies, on the fly and using a temporary disc image.
  • Import session data from multi-session discs and add more sessions to them.
  • Display disc information.
  • Save audio and data tracks to files (.wav and .iso).

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Qv7hB.pngDeepBurner

License: Freeware/Shareware $24.95

Screenshot: Here

Size: 1.1 MB

Operating systems: 98/ME/2000/XP

My Rating: Very Good - I must confess, personally i never liked the shareware/freeware restrictions in a program, for me a piece of software is 100% free or not but DeepBurner has enough features even in the free version so i think is pretty good for a freebie. Also you'll be surprised by the DeepBurner spartan interface but if you want a Free alternative to NERO than you should say thanks to AstonSoft for this great little program. A portable version is available too that works straight from removable media, whether it's a USB flash drive, compact flash card, or even a good old floppy.

The main features

  • You can easily create and burn regular data CDs/DVDs
  • AudioCD recording functionality is included
  • Direct disk-to-disk copying is a cinch*
  • Quickly build and burn ISO Images
  • Burning Video DVDs is no problem*
  • Create awesome, personalized photo CD/DVD albums*
  • Rest assured with the full-featured backup utility*
  • CD/DVD burning from the command line for you pro's*
  • Drive and media information utility included*
  • Supports IDE/EIDE, USB, SCSI, and Fire Wire CD/DVD writers
  • Overburn function
  • Buffer underrun technology "Burn-Proof"
  • DAO, SAO and TAO Writing methods support
  • Support for CD-R / CD-RW / DVD-R / DVD+R / DVD-RW / DVD+RW / DVD-RAM
  • Create Multi-session CDs
  • Bootable CD/DVD support
  • Dynamically adjustable drive buffer size
  • High Performance File/Disc Caching
  • Supports Long File Name (Joliet) File Systems
  • Creates ISO (100% DOS/Windows) compatible data CDs/DVDs
  • Supports multiple simultaneous recorders
  • Easy to use wizards help you create any type of burning project
  • The Autorun Wizard makes it easy to create effective autoruns for your CDs
  • You can even easily make your own cover, booklet or case insert
  • Multi-language interface, of course

*Available in DeepBurner Pro only.

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y6iji.pngCDrtfe

License: Freeware / Open Source

Screenshot: Here

Size: 2.5 MB

Operating systems: 98/ME/2000/XP

My Rating: Good - Free, open source and based on CDRtools like his young cousin Infra Recorder. CDrtfe has a very clean and pleasant interface along with some great features and the price. Not a word about Windows 7 compatibility on the author homepage still, the latest version was made on September, 2009

The main features

  • Data CDs
  • Audio CDs (including CD-Plus)
  • XCDs (with optional error protection)
  • Video CDs
  • Audio track extraction (wav, mp3, ogg, flac, userdefined)
  • Project files
  • Can be used with commandline options
  • Windows Explorer integration
  • Multi language support
  • DVD support: Data and Video DVDs
  • Remote drive support via RSCSI

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akDNq.pngAV Burning Studio

License: Shareware; $29.95

Screenshot: Here

Size: 8.8 MB

Operating systems: 98/ME/2000/XP

My Rating: Fair - because the interface reminds me of Sateira :unsure: otherwise is ok. AV Burning Studio is a good burning suite but never will replace NERO; if you have some bucks to spend ($29.95) take a look at Ashampoo, Prassi Ones, DeepBurner or try a freebie.

The main features

  • Create Audio CD's from WAV/WMA/MP3/Ogg Vorbis audio files
  • Burn movies as Video DVD, Video CD or Super Video CD
  • Create and burn disc images to CD/DVD
  • Load and save project files
  • Erase CD-RW, DVD-RW+
  • Create Data CD/DVD's
  • DVD Dual Layer supported
  • Burnproof supported
  • Drag & Drop functionality

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GuSS3.pngOront Burning Kit

License: Shareware; $29.95

Screenshot: Here

Size: 5.51 MB

Operating systems: 98/NT/2000/XP/2003/Vista/7

My Rating: Good - not bad, not bad at all for a newcomer. Oront Burning Kit has a clean interface and will perfectly fit your daily burning needs. Not recommended for a ''pro'' user. Interface very similar to InfraRecorder ?! If you really want to spend 30.00 USD just go with BurnAware Home.

Oront Burning Kit 2 Premium features

  • Burn files and folders to Data CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, HD DVD.
  • Backup your photos, music, movies and important documents.
  • Create and burn MP3 CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, HD DVD.
  • Create MP3 disc that can be played on a home player with MP3 support.
  • Create and burn Audio CD from MP3, WMA and WAV file formats.
  • Create Audio CD that can be played on a home player.
  • Burn Video DVD from the prepared folder.
  • Create Video DVD which will be compatible with standard DVD players.
  • Create ISO image from disc.
  • Make exact copies of a disc on your hard drive.
  • Burn on multiple devices at once.
  • Burn disc from ISO image.
  • Create ISO image from project.
  • Erase rewritable disc.
  • Extract files and folders from corrupted disc.
  • Edit Video DVD layout.

Oront Burning Kit 2 Premium supports

  • Simultaneous burning
  • Verification of data
  • On-the-fly burning
  • Unicode file names
  • Multilanguage
  • Multisession
  • Buffer protection technologies (BurnProof, JustLink etc.)
  • Bootable discs and disc images
  • UDF / ISO9660 / Joliet file systems
  • Disc-at-once / Track-at-once modes
  • File and volume dates
  • Windows 98, NT, 2000, XP, 2003 Server, Vista, 7

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IFE7h.pngGEAR PRO Mastering Edition

License: Shareware; $99.95 - $599.00 USD

Screenshot: Here

Size: 20 MB

Operating systems: Windows 7/Windows Vista/XP/2000

My Rating: Excellent - GEAR PRO Mastering Edition is an excellent piece of software in only 20 MB. Don't expect that for $599.00 USD you will get a fancy interface too. Jokes apart this is a powerful burning software for professionals and consumers, alike. Available in two versions GEAR PRO Professional Edition $99.95 and GEAR PRO Mastering Edition $599.00 USD. If your needs are to burn ''torrents'' just go with ImgBurn, BurnAware etc... :rofl:

GEAR PRO Mastering Edition features

Powerful Multi-Tasking

  • Record to two or more drives at the same time.
  • Add DVD burners to your PC, use your PC as a disc duplicator.
  • Easy Disc Copy button, with ability to copy from any CD or DVD drive to any burner.
  • Copy one to many using multiple burners!
  • Copy discs perfectly, even with only one drive.
  • Work on a new project while you burn CDs and DVDs.

Support for the Latest Formats

  • Burn DVDs, including DVD-9 (dual-layer) titles to DVD+R Double Layer (DL) recordable media. GEAR PRO Mastering Edition gives you total, accurate control over the layer break setting for DVD-Video projects for optimal disc layout and reliable playability when burning.
  • Total accurate control over the layer break setting for DVD-Video projects for optimal disc layout and reliable playability when creating DDP images used for glass-mastering.
  • Accurate import of any authored DVD-Video title.
  • Add ROM content to DVD-Video titles.
  • Master high definition WMV-HD titles!
  • Create bootable CDs or DVDs.
  • CD-Text creation and editing.
  • Creating large CD-ROM or DVD-ROM titles? New "offline formatting" creates disc file systems optimized for indexing disc projects containing large numbers of files. GEAR's standard virtual formatting is also available, optimizing the file system for fast individual file access.
  • Support for recording files larger than 4 GB (with UDF only).

Easy to Use

  • Easy audio ripping! Rip CD audio tracks to .wav, .mp3, .wma, .ogg, or MPEG audio. Rip the entire disc, or selected tracks. Control bitrate, bit depth.
  • Automatic CD-Audio artist and track title identification using FreeDB.
  • CD-ROM data formatting for CD-R(W) media, with the choice to format into ISO 9660, CD-ROM XA or CD-ROM ISO/UDF hybrid format (OSTA UDF compliant), and Mixed Mode.
  • DVD-ROM authoring with complete control over every aspect of the file system, including ISO, ISO/UDF, or pure UDF.
  • UPC-EAN and ISRC codes can be assigned to the audio tracks.
  • Adjust pause between audio tracks.
  • Copy CD+G, CD-text audio CDs. *Note: You must have a recorder that is capable of reading AND writing subcode information in order for this function to work.
  • Audio editor allows you to trim, fade, edit, or normalize audio files.
  • Audio CD creation, with the ability to import Wave (.wav) and decode MP3, OGG, WMA, or MPEG audio files.
  • Disc information tool shows detailed format, volume, session, and track information for any CD or DVD.
  • Easily add files and directories to your CD or DVD... just drag and drop. Choose to back up all files, or only files that have changed since the last backup.

Reliable Professional Features

  • Write DDP images to hard disk, DLT, Exabyte, 4 mm. (DAT), or through FTP directly to a disc replicator.
  • Write DVD masters flagged for CSS encryption.
  • Convert CDs or DVDs to DDP image quickly and easily.
  • Control CD or DVD Jukeboxes.
  • Restore files to hard disk from DLT, Exabyte, or other tape drives.
  • Verify every recorded disc 100%.
  • Support for Joliet and Rockridge ISO extensions.
  • Import and burn DVD-Audio disc images.
  • Appending data to multisession CD's, with advanced append options.
  • Track-at-once and disc-at-once recording methods. Session at once, manual fixation, Burnproof, Justlink, and overburning are also supported.
  • Incremental Packet Writing allows quick, flexible data storage. Support for fixed and variable packet writing.
  • Format, full erase, and quick erase CD-RW, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW media.
  • Save, import and burn physical image files, such as ISO files.
  • GEAR PRO's powerful scripting feature allows you to create GEAR batch files, which can automate repetitive tasks, or allow GEAR to be called from external programs, such as custom scripts or schedulers. GEAR PRO also allows you to run any GEAR command manually from a Command Line Interface. These powerful commands allow for extended functionality beyond what is available through the graphical user interface. Access the world-renowned GEARWorks CD and DVD recording engine directly through GEAR PRO!
  • Supports all CD and DVD drives and recorders (burners) on the market today, through any drive interface.
  • Runs on Windows 7/Windows Vista/XP/2000.
  • GEAR's recording engine is installed and running reliably on millions of PCs around the world.
  • GEAR's updated drivers and device configuration files are always available for free download.
  • GEAR's support staff is always available to help you through our Support Forums, or directly by e-mail.

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OH68R.pngUsefulUtils Discs Studio

License: Freeware

Screenshot: Here

Size: 590 KB

Operating systems: 98/ME/NT/2000/XP/2003/Vista/2008/7

My Rating: Very Good - UsefulUtils Discs Studio is another lightweight disc burning software. It allows you to burn CD/DVD/HD/Blu-ray discs quickly without any complications.

UsefulUtils Discs Studio features

  • SCSI, ATAPI, Parallel port, USB (1.1 and 2.0) and FireWire (IEEE 1394) devices support
  • ASPI, SPTI, SPTD interfaces support
  • Burning on any discs support
  • "On-The-Fly" burning support
  • PerformOPC support
  • OverBurning (in UUDS - HyperBurning) support
  • Test burning (for CD only) support
  • Supported BUP (Buffer Underrun Protection)
  • Supported burning modes:
  • Track-At-Once (TAO)
  • Disc-At-Once (DAO/96)
  • Disc-At-Once (DAO/16)
  • Session-At-Once (SAO)
  • Bootable discs burning
  • Multisessional discs burning with a choice of any imported session;
  • Burning of multiple disc copies
  • and much, much more...

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4CknU.gifExplore&Burn

License: Shareware $14.95

Screenshot: Here

Size: 3.1 MB

Operating systems: XP/Vista/7

My Rating: Fair - Another lightweight disc burning software. Maybe too light for my taste. Once free, starting from the 1.6 version Explore&Burn went shareware so personally I don't like this kind of changes. Nothing so great to offer but for $15 you can't get anything better except free software.

Explore&Burn features

  • Burn any files to new CDs and DVDs or update discs burned earlier by adding new files and folders.
  • Burn ISO images from your hard disk to physical media quickly and easily.
  • Burn DVD-Video discs using the files in a prepared VIDEO_TS folder.
  • Burn to any recordable CD or DVD - CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW discs, including Dual Layer discs.
  • Burn single-session and multi-session discs with ISO-9660, Joliet and UDF file systems.
  • Multilingual User Interface English, Chinese(Simplified), Chinese(Traditional), Dutch, French, German, Russian, Spanish and Ukrainian languages.

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yptpR.gifTrue Burner

License: Freeware

Screenshot: Here

Size: 3.1 MB

Operating systems: NT/2000/XP/Vista/7 (32 and 64 Bit)

My Rating: Good - True Burner is BurnAware. BurnAware is TrueBurner. BurnAware was created by GloryLogic than sold to BurnAware Technologies and just like BurnAware Free True Burner is Ad supported (uses OpenCandy on install only) .OpenCandy is a service that lets application developers generate more money from their apps.

True Burner features

  • Create data, bootable and multisession CD/DVD/Blu-ray Discs
  • Create Audio CDs and MP3 CD/DVD/Blu-ray Discs
  • Create DVD-Video
  • Create and burn boot images
  • Copy CDs and DVDs
  • Based on award-winning burning software BurnAware 2 SDK
  • Supports all current hardware interfaces (IDE/SCSI/USB/1394/SATA)
  • Supports UDF/ISO9660/Joliet Bridged file systems (any combination)
  • On-the-fly writing for all image types (no staging to hard drive first)
  • Auto-verification of written files
  • Supports CD-Text and unicode characters
  • Supports Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7 (32 and 64 Bit), no drivers required

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wyc4N.png

G6yWz.pngImgBurn

License: Freeware

Screenshot: Here

Size: 5.1 MB

Operating systems: NT/2000/XP/Vista/7

My Rating: Excellent - We have a winner this year. ImgBurn is superior product in every possible way. This is by far the best piece of freeware I have ever used! Newbies: Don't get scared of the huge functions and options that ImgBurn has to offer, the friendliest way to use ImgBurn is in its Ez-Mode Picker view. It's interface can be as simple or complex as you want, offering either a few simple choices or a multitude of drive settings. Truly the best free CD/DVD/Blu-Ray Burning and Disc Imaging program around. This software has a lot to offer for both beginners and power users, so why to pay when you can get it for free!

ImgBurn features

  • ImgBurn supports a wide range of image file formats - including BIN, CUE, DI, DVD, GI, IMG, ISO, MDS, NRG and PDI.
  • It can burn Audio CD's from any file type supported via DirectShow / ACM - including AAC, APE, FLAC, M4A, MP3, MP4, MPC, OGG, PCM, WAV, WMA and WV.
  • You can use it to build DVD Video discs (from a VIDEO_TS folder), HD DVD Video discs (from a HVDVD_TS folder) and Blu-ray Video discs (from a BDAV / BDMV folder)
  • It supports Unicode folder/file names, so you shouldn't run in to any problems if you're using an international character set.
  • and much, much more.....

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Changelog 10/26/2010 NERO Burning Rom Alternatives Second Edition 2011

Added:

BurnAware
Nero BurnLite 10
UsefulUtils Discs Studio
Explore&Burn
ImgBurn
True Burner

Removed:

Sateira CD/DVD Burner - Website is gone
NTI CD&DVD Maker now NTI Media Maker 9 Premium 280 MB

Which programs to avoid:

BurnPro is the same with:
hxxp://www.mp3editorpro.com/burnpro/index.htm

Cute CD DVD BD Burner / 101 All to CD Burner
hxxp://www.silvereaglesoft.com/
hxxp://www.cute-cd-dvd-burner.com/

EZ Burning Studio
hxxp://www.ezaudioeditor.com/

AV Burning Pro
hxxp://www.avmediasoft.com/avburningpro.htm

Gold Burn
hxxp://www.wav-editor.com/goldburn/index.html

Easy Burning Studio
hxxp://www.free-audio-editor.com/otherfreeproducts/products.htm


Bundled with Adware, Viruses, Spyware / InfraRecorder rip offs:

FeyWriter
hxxp://www.feytools.com/products/feywriter.html

Hanso Burner
hxxp://www.hansotools.com/applications/hanso-burner.html

Inscriptio
hxxp://www.inscriptio.net/

Infested with Adware, Viruses, Spyware:

Free CD Burner
hxxp://www.thepickapp.com/free_cdburner.html

Freaky Burn
hxxp://www.freaky-burn.com/

Amazing CD & DVD Burner
hxxp://www.npssoftware.com/freedvdburners/dvdburners.htm

Instant CD & DVD Burner
hxxp://www.albumgalaxy.com/instantcdburner/index.htm

Click 'N Burn CD & DVD
hxxp://www.mp3hitmachine.com/clicknburn/index.htm

FireStorm CD & DVD
hxxp://www.snappertools.com/firestorm/index.htm

BurnRight CD & DVD
hxxp://www.kiwialpha.com/burnright/index.htm

Flash CD & DVD Burner
hxxp://www.twistermp3.com/flashcdburner/index.htm

Artisan CD/DVD BURNER
hxxp://www.binartisan.com/

Astroburn Lite
hxxp://www.astroburn.com/

0yvOi.gif: Since 2006 when this topic was created, a lot of websites reproduced this topic in some form or another with a single purpose: more visitors, more money. I perfectly understand your needs but stealing is not nice. At least please give NEOWIN some credit when you try to copy other people's work. That's why starting from this year copying this article to your website is strictly NOT allowed. However, if you like this article, you can use the HTML code below to directly link to this article. Thanks everyone.

<a href="https://www.neowin.net/forum/topic/421355-nero-burning-rom-alternatives/" >NERO Burning Rom Alternatives Second Edition 2011</a>

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Ive had problems with CDBurnerXP Pro before. When I start the program, it would ask for the installer to install again even though its already installed, when I hit cancel it would just exit. Now this has happen with three fresh installs of XP. So im assuming there was a bug in the installer, this was a older version, so they could have had fixed the issue

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excellent guide, i'd like to see more comments from users on what they think, cause i hate nero now, its so over complicated and bloated, so i want something new. This is the forum i've been looking for

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Nice Dude, I was getting sick with Nero because it was messing up my Video CDs so i switched to Ashampoo and its going great at the moment!

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Nero 6.6 is good so far, multifinctional

Deep Burner is free (so you are not violating Digital right Act :p )

But recently one program came to my attention

Sonic RecordNow! Deluxe7.3 , it's Ok program, not better tha Nero in funcionaliyu and end-user usability,

but has one major advantage - UDF , u can read/write CD or DVD just like on hard disc , so you take a 2 layered DVD, and get additional 7 G of disc space!!

Nero has this function but requires InCD to be installed on both your computer and other - were data will be read

Unfortunatly, you cannot install Nero and Sonic RecordNow! on same Windows :(

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AVS Disc Creator

Write your data to CD and DVD quickly and easily using FREE AVS Disc Creator.

Simple and intuitive interface, fast performance a variety of features and supported media types make AVS Disc Creator a most convenient software to create data CD and DVD.

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Small CD Writer 1.12

http://home.earthlink.net/~1.414213563/files/SCDWriter.exe

Only 321 kb. It's originally in Russian but fans translated it. It's so bloatfree, it trumps all other browsers.

that things pretty cool, reminds me of a cd copying version of utorrent. But the developer is russian, and newer updates etc with important bug fixes have been released in russian, but cannot be translatted to english anymore, so not much point using this as no more development for it :(

Anyone got any other options or opinions?

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Small CD Writer 1.12

http://home.earthlink.net/~1.414213563/files/SCDWriter.exe

Only 321 kb. It's originally in Russian but fans translated it. It's so bloatfree, it trumps all other browsers.

Very nice find, thanks for sharing it with us :woot:

that things pretty cool, reminds me of a cd copying version of utorrent. But the developer is russian, and newer updates etc with important bug fixes have been released in russian, but cannot be translatted to english anymore, so not much point using this as no more development for it :(

Anyone got any other options or opinions?

I know cirilic, so I have no problem using russian version, but the buttons are at the same places, so just compare with english version and viola, you will easily use russian version.

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