I'm a college professor and have used many 3-ring binders over the years. These are the best I have encountered. I selected them because they felt sturdy and durable but only time will confirm this. The fact they were also good looking (distinctive) was a plus. The rings open easily and close securely without gaps. The binders lay flat when fully opened. The rings are D shaped so the content also lays flat. The binders are easy to label and the system used makes it easy to change labels in the future. No more need to apply self adhesive labels on top of each other or remove them several years later leaving a sticky mess. The front cover allow a face sheet to be inserted so you can apply own cover design or insert a table of contents. The cost of the binders is high but I believe they are well worth it if you expect the content to be frequently used (like class notes or research materials) over a period of years.
It's very easy to open with one push of the finger and because it has a straight side to it the papers all line up straight when the binder is closed. I just bought one and then went back and bought a bunch more. It's perfect to use for holding music during gigs.
this notebook lasted my son almost two years of high school. it is the only notebook i will buy.when they last that long the are worth the extra money.
The clear inner pockets aren't quite up to par with the rest of the construction. However I have these notebooks in several sizes (1" 1.5" 2" 3") and they last a long long time.