There are some CD-R consistently showing top results in tests: Taiyo Yuden (Plextor in Europe) specificed for 48x, Verbatim DataLife Plus 48x, Memorex 52x and Fuji. Note that Verbatim DataLife also has an added layer that provides superior protection against UV sunlight, high temperatures and humidity.

One of the best programs for testing CD-R is CD/DVD Diagnostic from Arrowkey. This is a free version which can be downloaded and used during  30 days.

Download CD/DVD Diagnostic here

The site CDRLabs.com tests CD-burners regularly in detail also with respect to media. Specific tests are used for writing quality. We have checked the reviews of the recent CD-burners, with maximum burning speeds of 52x, Asustech, Cendyne, Cyberdrive, LG, Lite-On. Samsung and TDK.

Consistently, the best writing quality was achieved using Taiyo Yuden manufactured discs (often used by Fuji). Discs from Imation, Pro Disc (Memorex), Sony and Verbatim produced comparatively good result. The number of errors was often high on discs from: CMC, Maxell, Philips, Plasmon, Ritek (Memorex) and TDK.

CDRLabs.com