ImgBurn is mainly used to burn CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. Unfortunately, it has stopped receiving updates since 2013. Because of that, many users hesitate to download it.
To be more informed about ImgBurn, this write-up provides an in-depth look at its primary features, perks, and the common concerns about download problems and virus risks.
If you are looking for an alternative, we will also introduce the best ones that work on Windows and Mac and can perform the same tasks, some even offering more features than ImgBurn.
Part 1. Full Review of ImgBurn
ImgBurn is still a trusted disc burning program. Many users keep it because it works fast and does the job well. At the same time, it feels old and comes with real risks when downloading. It is powerful for basic burning, but it is no longer friendly for modern users.
Main Features
ImgBurn focuses on one thing. Burning discs with control and accuracy. It does not try to be fancy. It just burns.
- Strong Burning Engine: ImgBurn uses the same core engine from DVD Decrypter. It makes burns stable and accurate even today.
- Multiple Working Modes: It has read, build, write, verify, and discovery modes.
- Broad Image Format Support: It supports ISO, BIN, CUE, IMG, NRG, MDS, and more.
- Audio CD Burning: ImgBurn can burn music discs from MP3, WAV, FLAC, AAC, OGG, and other audio format files.
- Advanced Control Options: You can set write speed, choose layer breaks, and verify discs after burning.
- ISO Creation from Folders: You can turn files and folders into an ISO image before burning.
- Lightweight: ImgBurn software download is only 2 megabytes. It runs quickly and uses little system resources.
Pros & Cons of ImgBurn
- It works well with CD, DVD, and Blu-ray discs.
- It allows users to create ISO files from folders and files.
- It supports many image formats like ISO, BIN, IMG, and NRG.
- It produces reliable burns with speed control and disc verification.
- It is completely free to use and does not require any payment or license.
- It allows advanced users can fine-tune detailed settings for better burn results.
- It does not support drag-and-drop actions.
- It cannot convert video files for DVD playback.
- The installer may include adware or unwanted programs.
- The interface looks old and can be confusing for new users.
- It does not include DVD or Blu-ray authoring features like menus or chapters.
- It has not received any updates since 2013, which may cause compatibility problems.
Download Problems & Virus Concerns
Is ImgBurn safe? It is the question of many and the biggest issue with ImgBurn. The danger is not the program. The danger is how you get it.
No Clear Official Download Source
ImgBurn does not have a clean and trusted official download page anymore. It confuses many users.
Bundled Adware Risks
Many installers include adware like OpenCandy or toolbars. These are marked as PUPs by antivirus tools. You must manually opt out during setup.
Unsafe Third-Party Websites
Many sites host modified installers for the ImgBurn download. Some include real malware or trojans. Antivirus programs often flag these files.
No Truly Clean Installer
Even trusted mirrors have a bad history. Users often recommend specific mirror links in forums. It is not safe for average users.
High Risk for Beginners
New users may install unwanted software by mistake. One wrong click is enough.
Our Test
The thing is, ImgBurn only works with disc image files like ISO or BIN. It is such a waste of potential because regular video files cannot be burned directly. There are also no options to edit videos, add menus, chapters, or subtitles.
Plus, the interface looks old, the menus feel crowded, and even simple tasks take too many clicks. Good thing, burning a disc is quick. Overall, ImgBurn is just great for basic burning but lacks modern features and comfort.
Part 2. Top 6 ImgBurn Alternatives for Windows and Mac
1. Tipard DVD Creator
ImgBurn is great for basic disc burning, but it stops there. Tipard DVD Creator goes much further. This ImgBurn for Mac and Windows alternative lets you create DVDs and Blu-rays from nearly any video format, like MP4, AVI, MKV, and even high-definition videos, and burn them to DVDs, Blu-ray discs, folders, or ISO files.
Moreover, you can add menus, chapters, audio, subtitles, and even opening films. With all these features, there is no doubt that Tipard DVD Creator stands out as the top choice for an ImgBurn alternative. It is really recommended for anyone who wants control, preview, and easy editing all in one place.
Main Features
- Preview: Check and refine the video before burning.
- Disc Support: DVD-5, DVD-9, BD-25, BD-50 in various formats.
- Video Editing: Rotate, clip, crop, adjust effects, and color grading.
- Opening Film: Incorporate custom footage for DVD or Blu-ray menus.
- Menu Templates: Holiday, Family, Wedding, Travel, or custom menus.
- Fast burning speed with high-clarity output.
- Supports many video formats for DVD/Blu-ray creation.
- Can add audio, subtitles, watermarks, and opening films.
- Easy-to-use interface for beginners and experienced users.
- The free version only offers limited menu templates.
ImgBurn vs. Tipard DVD Creator
- Tipard DVD Creator has a visual menu maker and editing tools; ImgBurn does not.
- Tipard DVD Creator supports almost all video formats easily; ImgBurn is limited to disc image files.
- Tipard DVD Creator has a modern interface, while ImgBurn has an old interface and feels outdated.
- Tipard DVD Creator gives more control, options, and keeps video clarity high; ImgBurn only handles basic burning.
2. DVDStyler
Burning a DVD is not just about files. It is also about how the disc looks and works. Unlike ImgBurn, which focuses on raw burning, DVDStyler adds style and control. It helps you create DVDs with menus, chapters, and buttons. You can design screens your way or use ready templates. On top of that, it is free and open source, and can be used as an ImgBurn for Linux, Windows, and Mac.
Main Features
- Subtitle Control: Allows more than one subtitle track.
- Format Handling: Supports many video and audio types.
- No Re-encode Mode: Uses DVD-ready files without clarity loss.
- Menu Creation: Lets you make custom DVD menus with text and buttons.
- Strong menu design tools.
- Supports many common formats.
- Fully free with open source access.
- Can crash during large projects.
- Burning may fail on some drives.
- DVDs may not play well on all players.
3. BurnAware Free
Like ImgBurn software, BurnAware Free focuses on simple tasks but feels easier to use. It manages data discs, audio CDs, and disc images with little setup. It works well for backups and quick burns. The layout is clear and friendly. It also supports Blu-ray burning, which ImgBurn users often look for. For basic needs, it gets the job done without heavy tools or clutter.
Main Features
- Verification Tool: Examines files after they have been written.
- Image Support: Burns ISO and UDF images.
- Rewritable Disc Tools: Erases and formats discs.
- Disc Burning: Creates data, audio, and video discs.
- Use of the system is light.
- Simple layout for novices.
- No forced advertisements and a clean installer.
- Few video menu tools.
- No direct disc copying in the free version.
4. Nero Burning Rom
This ImgBurn for Windows 11 alternative focuses on control and safety. It is built for users who often burn important data. It supports many types of DVD and adds tools for security and file protection. Large files are split across discs with smart spacing. It also handles music ripping and image files with care. While it feels heavier than simple burners, many trust it for stable and accurate results over time.
Main Features
- Audio Tools: Rips and converts music files.
- File Spanning: Splits large files across discs.
- Secure Burning: Protects data with disc protection tools.
- Image Handling: Creates and burns ISO and other images.
- Strong security options.
- Very reliable burn clarity.
- Handles many disc formats
- Paid program with high cost.
- The interface may feel complex.
5. WinX DVD Author
Unlike ImgBurn, which has no authoring tools, WinX Audio Author focuses on video-to-DVD tasks. This ImgBurn alternative transforms video files into playable DVDs with menus and chapters. It uses a step-by-step guide that helps new users. It works fast for standard discs and keeps video clarity stable. It is best for simple home projects and quick burns without deep settings.
Main Features
- Basic Editing: Trims videos before burning.
- Fast Engine: Finishes standard DVDs quickly.
- Menu Builder: Adds chapter menus and backgrounds.
- Video Conversion: Turns common video files into DVD format.
- Free with no watermark.
- Simple for new users.
- Good output clarity for videos.
- Can crash with large files.
- Few menu design choices.
- Limited support for new formats.
6. CDBurnerXP
Some users are looking for a free program that performs a variety of small tasks effectively. ISO files, audio CDs, and data discs can all be easily burned with CDBurnerXP. Additionally, it aids in data verification after writing and the creation of bootable discs. The features are still functional, but the design feels dated. For quick audio and data burning, many users save it for free.
Main Features
- ISO Tools: Builds and burns image files.
- Boot Disc Support: Makes bootable media.
- Verification Option: Checks disc data after burn.
- Audio Burning: Creates audio CDs with gap control.
- Low system resource use.
- Good audio format support.
- Fully free with strong core tools.
- Old interface design.
- Slow DVD burning speed.
- No help for protected discs.
Part 3. Comparison of the 6 ImgBurn Alternatives
| ImgBurn Alternatives | OS | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Tipard DVD Creator | Windows & Mac | Making DVDs/Blu‑rays from almost any video format with menus and editing. |
| DVDStyler | Windows, Mac & Linux | Free DVD authoring with custom menus and basic tools. |
| BurnAware Free | Windows | Simple disc burning and data backups. |
| Nero Burning ROM | Windows | Professional burning with extra tools and deep control. |
| WinX DVD Author | Windows | Free DVD creation from common video files with simple menus. |
| CDBurnerXP | Windows | Free basic burning for discs and ISO files. |
| Show MoreShow Less | ||
Conclusion
As you have learned, ImgBurn is not safe to download, so we suggest relying on the ImgBurn alternatives provided. As the top choice, you can surely trust Tipard DVD Creator. It is safe to use and allows you to customize your DVD before burning. Please do not wait any longer; give it a try now and see the results for yourself!
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