OEM Drives and Warranty

[Cataphract]

Do vendors or Mfg's cover OEM drives under warranty?

I am planning to get one but am not sure whether to get a retail box or an OEM version, I don't care much about the software that comes with the retail box. The only other advantage would be warranty(If OEM is not covered), if I run in to situation if the OEM drive dies or if there is a problem with it. But if OEM's are covered, I guess than its not much of a risk or at least has the same risk as a retail box.

Any other disadvantages of buying OEM Vs. Retail?

Would like to hear from you guys.

The reason I am looking for a super reliable burner is because I am going to house it in a Usb 2.0 external enclosure, and so you know if something goes wrong it is going to be very painful taking the thing out returning it and getting a replacement and all that. I just want something that I can put it in and forget about it and let it do its job. (am going to choose between the Sony 510 DRUA or Pioneer 106D)

[Poppa_Meth]

OEM drive sometimes have warranty, usually a shorter term one than Retail drives but not always. it's best to inquire about a warranty where you plan to purchase it. other than software retail drives usually, again not always, have the cables needed to hook them up where OEM drives sometimes don't.