How to Properly Eject a DVD from a MacBook Pro

Having troubles ejecting a DVD from your MacBook Pro? Follow this comprehensive guide to resolve the issue effectively. This article covers both normal and stuck disc scenarios, providing clear steps and specific methods to handle each situation.

Method 1: Ejecting Normally

Ejecting a DVD from your MacBook Pro can be straightforward. Here are several methods you can use:

1. Use the Eject Key

The Eject key is located in the top-right corner of your MacBook Pro’s keyboard. When you press it, the DVD tray should slide right out. If you were recently using the DVD and the key isn't functioning, it may take a few seconds to eject. For an external drive, hold the F12 key until the disk pops out, or press a physical button if available.

Some DVD drives have a small pinhole on the front. Insert a small paperclip or similar object into this hole to manually open the CD tray and eject the disk.

2. Use the Command and E key

If the Eject key isn't working but the DVD drive is undamaged, use this keyboard shortcut: press Command E. This will force the DVD to eject.

3. Use the Finder

Alternatively, you can use the Finder:

Open the Finder, which resembles a blue face-shaped icon in your Mac’s Dock. Locate the DVD’s name under "Devices" or "External Storage Devices." Click the “X” next to the disk’s name to eject it. For an external drive, locate the disk icon on your desktop, click and drag it onto the Trash Can in the lower-right corner of the screen to eject it.

4. Use iTunes

If the DVD is in use by iTunes or other media-related applications:

Open iTunes. Locate the DVD in the Music Library on the left-hand side of the screen. Click the eject button (e) at the bottom of the drop-down menu.

Method 2: Ejecting a Stuck Disk

If your DVD is stuck and none of the above methods work, there are additional steps you can take:

1. Close any open applications

Many CD drives, especially external ones, won’t respond to ejection commands if the disk is currently in use. Make sure to close web browsers and any other programs using the disk, but retain open media players and video games.

2. Tilt your MacBook Pro

Angle the disk slot side of your MacBook Pro downward and use one of the regular ejection methods. Gravity can help release the stuck disk.

3. Restart your MacBook Pro

Restarting the computer may prompt it to force the DVD to eject automatically. Check if the disc has been ejected after the restart.

4. Use Disk Utility

Open Disk Utility:

Click Spotlight and enter “Disk Utility.” Select your disk in the left-hand side of the Disk Utility window. Go to the “File” menu and click “Eject Disk.”

5. Use Terminal Command

Alternatively, use the Terminal command:

Click Spotlight and enter “Terminal.” In the Terminal, type the following command: drutil tray eject. Press Enter.

6. Give your computer a break

If none of the above methods work, try shutting down your computer for at least 10 minutes and then restart it. Retry the above methods to see if they work after the break.

7. Seek Professional Help

As a last resort, take your MacBook Pro to a professional for physical removal of the disk. This is often necessary if your CD drive is broken or if the disc is physically stuck and can't be ejected manually.

By following these structured steps, you can effectively eject a DVD or resolve any issues with your MacBook Pro’s DVD drive. Remember, using the right tools and methods can save you time and prevent potential damage.