For a portable drive this one is the best. It's dirt cheap, plays and writes everything except Blu-Ray (who cares). You do not need to load the optional software if you have Windows Vista or 7.
Yes, it does take two USB ports that are side by side to run. How do you close it without crunching it...you just either put your fingers behind it and slide the disc shut or hold it by the sides with one hand and push the drawer back in. No need to press down on the top of it and crush it but you can put a enough pressure up there too without any problem. Yes it's plastic and could be discontorted if you pushed really hard.
While running a movie it is a bit loud sounding like a tiny fan on high speed but nothing that concerned me.
This will run your laptop/netbook battery down more quickly so it's best for movies while the machine is plugged in.
Bottom line. It's meant to be portable, light, and run everything except Blu-Ray. It does exactly that without fail.