Is Verizon REALLY the Better Network?

We are all well aware of the ongoing feud between Verizon Wireless and ATT over their wireless networks.  Verizon says that they have the most 3G coverage while ATT has the faster 3G coverage, but what's more important?  Verizon has really stressed the use of the ATT coverage map and how the coverage is much more sparse than that of their own.  Is Verizon falsely leading consumers to believe that ATT doesn't offer wireless service in much of the US because the map they use is only of 3G coverage and not the carriers wireless coverage.  That's why ATT attempted to get a court order for Verizon to stop airing the commercials, but were denied almost immediately.  ATT responded to their limited 3G coverage by saying that much of the areas on the map that are excluded have very limited populations/demand for the network.  That's why ATT has the faster 3G network.  It is unfortunate for the people that live in the uncovered areas, but it benefits the majority of us.  Just how much faster is it?  Take a look below...

 *stats from boygeniusreport.com

Clearly, ATT wins when it comes to speed.  Also, a smartphones abilities on a network is extremely important seeing as they are the main users of data on any wireless companies network.  Take the iPhone for example...you may recall ATT's recent commercials bringing attention to it's network's ability to allow you to hold a conversation and browse the web at the same time.  How worthless would your iPhone be if everytime you answered a call your download is interrupted...or if you're on the road and your friend wants to know what time the showings are for a movie that you're supposed to see, but you have to hang up and call them back.  At this point in technology it is not acceptable!

So what do you think is more important:  coverage or speed/abilities?  Let me know