What is a Digipak and How Does It Differ from a Jewel Case?

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TL;DR

Digipaks and jewel cases are two main CD/DVD packaging options. Jewel cases are classic, plastic, and functional, while digipaks use premium paperboard with creative fold-out designs. Digipaks offer aesthetic appeal and a premium feel, while jewel cases remain cost-effective and durable. Choosing depends on budget, audience, and desired presentation.

• Jewel case: plastic, hinged cover, central hub for discs, includes space for artwork/liner notes.
• Digipak: paperboard-based, integrates art and storage, offers book, sleeve, or multi-panel styles.
• Aesthetic appeal: digipaks provide wrap-around artwork and premium feel.
• Durability vs. creativity: jewel cases are sturdy, digipaks are versatile and eye-catching.
• Choice: depends on whether cost or premium design is the priority.

With physical media rapidly regaining popularity, media collectors may find themselves asking the question of optimal storage. After all, each of those precious CDs or Blu-rays need to be stored somehow.

And so, we turn to that age old question of which is better: the digipak vs the jewel case.

In this explainer, we’ll answer “what is a CD digipak.” We’ll also discuss the differences between a digipak for CD and Blu-ray storage and a jewel case. With these insights, you can determine which is best to package your next media project.

What is a Jewel Case?

You’ve likely heard this term before, as it’s been around since the 1980s. A jewel case is a form of optical disc packaging. It uses clear plastic to safely store a CD, DVD, Blu-ray (for 4K content), or other optical discs.

Jewel CD cases feature a swinging front cover that opens and closes to reveal the stored disc inside. The disc is stored on a central plastic tray’s hub, which grips the disc’s center hole.

The case’s front cover is usually affixed via a removable plastic hinge. That front cover also often features small tabs that can be used to house album artwork, liner notes, and more.

What is a Digipak CD / DVD Case?

A digipak is an alternative take on the jewel case, which became popular in the early 2000s. Here, cover art, interior art, media storage, and protective shell are all encapsulated in a single material. Where jewel cases employ several separate pieces of plastic, snapped together, to function, digipak cases are a single element.

For digipak storage options, variety is abundant when compared with a jewel case’s simple format. Digipak creators can get much more creative in how the media is presented when the digipak is unfolded. It can be opened:

• Book style, in which the front cover reveals the disc housing just behind it,
• Sleeve style, in which the disc can slip inside a cardboard sleeve build into the pak itself,
• Multi-panel style, in which the digipak can be unfolded revealing multiple inner panels.
• Etc.

Why Use a Digipak for CD Storage?

Digipaks make for a surprisingly aesthetic alternative to the jewel case for a variety of reasons.

First, because digipaks feature wrap-around, double-sided artwork, they are inherently eye-catching. Many creators like to offer an encapsulating media experience to their collectors.

Similarly, digipaks feel more intentional and considered when compared with jewel cases. While cost factors into digipaks vs jewel cases, those who want a premium option should turn to digipaks. The format simply feels more premium by comparison.

Design Stunning Digipaks with Blank Media Printing

If you are in need of bulk digipaks for your next media project, Blank Media Printing is here to serve you.

Our premium, affordable digipak options ensure your finished product comes across as professional and eye-catching for your audience. Upon first touch, you’ll feel the difference in our packaging options. But we also offer quick, high quality, and affordable jewel case packaging options as well! Select the best to suit your media.

Not sure which to choose? Learn more about Digipaks and jewel cases today!