When I first started burning CDs few years ago, Nero was my favorite program. It was simple to use it got the job done. I also tried Roxio Easy CD Creator back in the old days, but I didn’t like its interface and it wasn’t as reliable as Nero. Nero 6 is still my favorite program (yes, version 6!), but it’s getting old, and there are compatibility issues with the newer Windows Vista and Windows 7 systems.

Finally, I had to look for other CD/DVD burning programs. This is also because I am planning to upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7 very soon. This is what I found:

Best CD/DVD burning programs

• Burn Aware - Great for users with basic disc burning needs. This one’s free!
• Nero 9  Reloaded - I haven’t tried the new version, but it should be the same as (or better than) its predecessors. I give Nero the thumbs up.
• Ashampoo Burning Studio - Free burning program that’s easy to use and it looks nice too. One of my friends uses it regularly. No complaints!
• Roxio Easy CD Creator - Popular and well-known program that’s been around for many years. It’s not free but when you buy it, you should not be disappointed. It scored the best mark at TopTenReviews.com
• Express Burn 4 - Burn audio/data CDs and DVDs, or Blu Ray Discs. Compatible with Windows 7.
• FinalBurner - Create data/audio CDs, video DVDs, make ISO images and rip CDs, for free.
• BurnWorld - Free and simple to use program. Create audio and data CDs and DVDs. Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7
• DeepBurner - This program has it all. There are DeepBurner Pro and DeepBurner Free editions.
• NTI Media Maker 2010 - Not free, but a very good program. It scored high marks at the TopTenReviews Web site. Read the review here.
• Power2Go - Another program that received excellent marks at TopTenReviews.com. It costs $34.95. Power2Go supports HD and Blue-Ray discs.