get one with the radio on it. it's very useful in times when you can't use the radio anywhere else. I know for me, that's a big plus. Ipods don't have fm radio.
Sanddisk is my recommended brand. Creatives has dissapointed me too many times. also, check the battery use. Don't get the ones with built in ones because if they die, you have to ship the unit to them like the ipod. it sucks.