I had been looking for a good binder (i.e., one that didn't fall apart) for some time, so I was excited to see the Staples Better Binder, which claims to be Staples' "most durable binder." Its durability is because the spine is reinforced with rubber, which should prevent the cracking and splitting that usually occurs in binders with use. The edges of the covers also have rubber on them - I assume to give the binder a more balanced appearance.
The covers themselves are made of solid plastic (latex free, if that's a concern), rather than cardboard with a vinyl covering, which seems to be the most common type. (The vinyl and cardboard covers are not ideal as the vinyl usually begins to peel away from the cardboard after use.) The front and back inside covers both have clear plastic pockets on them to hold miscellaneous papers.
Inside, the metal rings appear fairly standard. They are D-ring, mounted on the back cover rather than on the cover - overall the best option to avoid pages curling. There is only one tab (on the bottom) to open the rings, while I prefer two, but it is made of a textured black plastic for an easier grip, which I do like.
Finally, the Better Binder has a clear plastic pocket on the outside front cover so that you can insert whatever cover you like. This appears to be fairly standard. The Better Binder is available in many colours, and in sizes up to 3 inches.
Overall, the Staples Better Binder looks like an excellent choice, especially for those who carry their binders around with them. I can't wait to start using mine when I return to university in the fall. However, since this binder is pricier than the typical binder, if your binders spend most of their lives sitting on a shelf, an ordinary binder may be all you need.
Related reviews: Work Play Love, The Planted Trees.