Motorola Droid vs. HTC Droid Eris?

If you're on Verizon and you're thinking about purchasing a smartphone running Google's Android operating system, you may be asking the question: Motorola Droid or HTC Droid Eris? Maybe you're even planning on waiting for the Google Nexus One to show up on Verizon.

Here's how I would make the decision: consider the pros/cons and these important points:

• Remember that an average smartphone only lasts approximately 2-3 years. So, you're not investing in something that you'll be keeping "long-term." The Motorola Droid is $199 and the HTC Droid Eris is now only $79. The delta is $120 and I'm sure you could use that cash somewhere else. You could even save that towards your next smartphone!
  
• If you're dependent on a physical keyboard (or thumb board) to type and enter text, then get a smartphone that has a physical QWERTY keyboard. The Motorola Droid is the only Android smartphone on Verizon that currently has a slide-out QWERTY keyboard.
• If you plan to watch videos, movies, and TV on your smartphone, then get the device that has the larger screen (Motorola Droid). 
• Are you a power user? Do you need a super-fast processor? Then get the Motorola Droid.
• Want a small and slim smartphone that you can easily place in your pocket? Go for the HTC Droid Eris.
  
• Plan to use your smartphone as a GPS navigator? Currently, the Motorola Droid offers turn-by-turn navigation through Google Maps and we don't know if this feature will become available on the HTC Droid Eris. (you can always purchase third-party GPS navigation software for any Android smartphone)
  

Some people spend way too much time trying to decide on a smartphone. I think it's more important to choose your operating system wisely. If you have limited finances (e.g., medical student or resident), then I would suggest the HTC Droid Eris. If you're an attending (or you have some other source of wealth), then go with the Motorola Droid. Of course, if you're a Mac lover like my wife, then you may be waiting for the Apple iPhone to come to Verizon.