Suggestions for removable/external DVD drive

First, is this a good time to buy an x61?

Second, if so, I would need to buy an external CD-RW/DVD drive (must be rewrittable. I have DVD+RW, so maybe the drive has to be DVD+RW). I don't have high demand.

Some questions:
For how low price could I get one? Which of the following listed on Lenovo site may be OK for me (I can't tell much difference among them )? Can I get cheaper ones elsewhere? Also, what kind of problems can happen to a bad choice?

Any input will be greatly appreciated!! Thanks.


ThinkPad 8X Max DVD-ROM Ultrabay Slim Drive ThinkPad 8X Max DVD-ROM Ultrabay Slim Drive [add $119.00]

ThinkPad CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo II Ultrabay Slim Drive ThinkPad CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo II Ultrabay Slim Drive [add $169.00]

ThinkPad Ultrabay Slim DVD Burner ThinkPad Ultrabay Slim DVD Burner [add $199.00]

ThinkPlus USB 2.0 CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo II Drive ThinkPlus USB 2.0 CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo II Drive [add $199.00]

Lenovo USB 2.0 Super Multi-Burner Drive with LightScribe

 

You can buy this case and put any ide drive in it you want from say NewEgg. It is USB powered. There's no need to carry a power adapter. I had one with my T42 because ThinkPad DVD burners were so expensive at the time. It works quite well.

 

Here is one that is very good; might seem a bit pricey, but does not require extras ac adapter, which to me is very important.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827136136

I tried the enclosure that ZaZ mentioned above, but had issues with those not burning properly - one even fried my DVD drive, so I avoid it.

The LG has been solid for me.

 

Interesting, I had a couple of them and recommended to several other people. I never had or heard back of any issues. Perhaps something else was amiss.