Express Burn vs SysTools ISO Creator

Express Burn burns audio, video, and data to CD, DVD, and Blu-ray discs on Windows and macOS. For audio, it can create MP3 or audio CDs and supports WAV, MP3, WMA, OGG, and FLAC. Video functions include DVD and Blu-ray burning, chapter management, and PAL or NTSC output. DVD authoring provides more than 20 menu templates, with the option to add custom images. Data discs can use ISO/Joliet, UDF, or Hybrid formats, and the software can create and burn ISO images. It supports recordable and rewritable media, dual-layer DVD and Blu-ray burning, bootable data discs, and disc copying. Command-line operation is available for automation and integration with other programs. The free edition does not expire, but is limited to non-commercial use and CD burning. Paid annual plans cost $34.99 a year for CD burning, $49.99 a year for CD and DVD recording, or $59.95 a year for all supported disc types. NCH says the audio and video functions are for users' own content and cannot be used to break copy or region protections.

SysTools ISO Creator creates and edits ISO files from local files and folders on Windows and macOS. It supports ISO 9660, UDF, and Rock Ridge formats, and can make bootable images from system files or installation folders that contain the necessary files. When building an ISO, it preserves folder structure, file names, and paths. The software is described as offline: it does not require an internet connection or upload data to a cloud or server. A real-time ViewLog record tracks activity and can produce a report of actions. The free version limits handling large ISO files and saving edited or bootable ISOs. The Full Version costs 29.00 USD once and removes those limits. Windows needs 100 MB of disk space, 4 GB RAM, and .NET Framework 4.5 or above; the product page says to run it as administrator on Windows 10 and 11. The Mac version needs 200 MB of disk space and 4 GB RAM, supports Intel and Apple Silicon M1, and requires the system region to be United States and the language to be English. Disc burning is not supported.