I use three ring binders as I find them convenient to use and access for papers have to reference on occasion. As well, personally, I find working with a file on paper is oftentimes much easier than having to work with a computerized version of the same file. I have generally always chosen a different well known brand for my binders in the past when I needed to get a new one, but that brand's quality has gone down over the years. If I were to purchase that brand's binder new in what is claimed to be their same quality today as 15 years ago and then stood the new alongside the old, the difference would be pretty easy to see in terms of its overall sturdiness and strength, and it would not be the new binder that would come out as the best overall. Thus I decided to try out this Samsill brand of binder in its place. While it is more expensive than other brands being made, I am hopeful that a Samsill binder will hold up better than what the other mass marketed brand is producing today as their best quality binder. I have been using a smaller sized Samsill notebook binder that I have been really happy with in terms of its overall quality and sturdiness, and I am hopeful this larger standard sized binder will be the same, as it will get heavier use and carry more weight so to speak. Beyond its looks, which is pretty dignified and rather formal overall for a binder, its rings seem sturdy and gap free when closed. I expect it to hold up well over time, and if not, I will update this review in the future.