Our verdict: ImgBurn is still one of the most precise free tools for burning and verifying disc images. It has not been updated since 2013, and the interface shows its age. If you still burn discs, it does the job; just download it from the official mirror.
About ImgBurn
ImgBurn is a freeware burner written by the developer known as LIGHTNING UK!. It has several modes: Read copies a disc to an image file, Build creates an image from files and folders, Write burns an image to disc, Verify checks a disc against its image, and Discovery tests drive and media quality. It supports CD, DVD, HD DVD and Blu-ray and many image formats, including BIN, CUE, ISO, IMG, MDS and NRG.
The latest version, 2.5.8.0, was released in June 2013. The official site lists support up to Windows 10, including 64-bit editions. ImgBurn may be used at home and at work for free, but it may not be bundled or sold.
What it does well
- Write images. Burns ISO, BIN/CUE, IMG, NRG, MDS and other images to CD, DVD and Blu-ray.
- Read discs. Copies a disc to an image file for backup.
- Build images. Creates an image or disc from files and folders, including DVD-Video folders.
- Verify burns. Compares the burned disc with the source image to catch errors.
- Detailed log. Shows every drive command and error, which helps diagnose failed burns.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who still burn CDs, DVDs or Blu-rays and want precise control and verification.
Look elsewhere
Users without an optical drive, or anyone who needs a currently maintained burning app.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free for home and work use
- Burn verification and detailed logs
- Supports many image formats
- Very small and light
Cons
- No updates since 2013
- Interface is dated and technical
- Third-party mirrors on the download page may carry extra offers
How to install ImgBurn
The button downloads Mirror 7, the copy hosted by ImgBurn itself; other mirrors on the download page are third-party sites. Read each installer screen and decline any optional third-party software if it is offered. Language packs are separate downloads that go into the Languages folder.
Questions about ImgBurn
Is ImgBurn free?
Yes. ImgBurn is freeware with no paid version, and the author allows use at home and at work.
Does ImgBurn work on Windows 11?
The official site lists support up to Windows 10, as the last release dates from 2013. Many people run it on Windows 11, but it is not officially tested there.
Which ImgBurn download link is safest?
Use Mirror 7, which is hosted by ImgBurn itself. The other mirrors belong to download sites that may wrap the installer with their own offers.
