I am amenable to any kind of CD case that protects the CD, is durable (cardboard generally is not, as is graphically demonstrated by the number of sleeves for vinyl records from 50+ years ago that are held together with masking tape), doesn't take up a great deal of space when shelved, and provides identification for the CD within, such as a cover blurb and booklet insert for written material about the music or other contents therein, the performer(s), and any other relevant information. AND that has a readable spine when stored on a shelf.

I've seen a lot of alternatives, but the best and most usable I've seen so far is the standard jewel case.

It definitely has its drawbacks and can certainly be improved, but the opening paragraph of this post outlines what I consider essential.

Especially provision for identifying the CD on the spine, or some equally quick and easy form of identification when the CD is stored on a shelf or cabinet of some kind.

Don Firth

P. S. I am as environmentally aware as anyone out there, but I find the environmental argument against jewel cases pretty weak. I don't intend to throw the jewel cases for my CD collection away and thus cavalierly pollute the landfills, roadsides, national parks, and oceans of the world with them. I intend to keep them and store my CDs in them.

I DO wish the current jewel cases were more durable (hinges, et al), but I'm careful and I've only had a couple break on me. But that was much too easy to do!