Optical Disc Packaging

Basics

• This page aims to go over the various ways of packaging Optical Discs such as CDs DVDs and Blu-Rays / M-Disc

Options

Jewel Case

• A Plastic Case that is pretty rigid, and outside of potentially shattering the disc when removing it, shouldn't damage the disc

C-Shell and Similar Thin Cases

• These tend to be single piece packages with a Live Hinge
• Often Polypropylene
• Examples:
  • Innovera Slim CD Cases, Clear, 25 Pack (~14 USD) (Translucent White)
  • Innovera Slim CD Cases, Clear, 10 Pack (~9 USD) (Assorted Colors)

Digipack

• Essentially a cardboard "book" that has either the Plastic Insert Itself from a Jewel Case, or a similar divot and spindle
• In the case of Music/Video releases it can have artwork and such
• Probably not as durable, but it depends

STiL CD Case

• Marketed for archival use
• Made of Polypropylene, but supposedly a better mechanism for releasing the disc (to prevent shatter), and larger gaps to prevent scraping
• The Website
• A Potential Source for Buying them, PrintFile Archival Storage
• Rated for up to 60 Years
  • Need to see what this is based off of, some sort of Accelerated Aging test maybe?

Sleeves

• Due to the risk of scratching the disc these aren't advisable, although for casual use of easily replaceable things it isn't a big deal
• Can be plastic, paper, or cardboard

External Links

• a RateYourMusic Wiki Post Titled "Package type"
  • Just found this based on the images, has a detailed guide with good photos/diagrams (although seems to be instructions on what to tag your stuff as based on desciptors)
• A Duplication Company (Duplication . ca)'s Page Showcasing their Options
• A Publishing Shop (Disc Wizards) Page Titled "CD DVD & Vinyl Design Templates - Download all CD, DVD & vinyl print packaging design templates here
  • Showcases their options and has templates for each