Truth or Dare... What is the best US cell company?

Epsilon Eridani writes: I am returning to the U.S. after an extended time overseas and upon my return I need to jump head first into the data enabled phone bandwagon. I have to admit... I am lost as to what is the best company to choose. Before I left the U.S. I used a Sprint HTC phone running Windows with the "simply everything" plan to communicate and stay organized and a Sprint Wireless Card to connect my laptop to the world. Coming back several generations of technology later, what is the best set up technology-wise to link phone and laptop or two to the Internet? (Open source solutions accepted too!) Can the Slashdot community verify some of the claims on quality of service before I give my first born up when I sign a service contract? I have so many things to take care of upon my return your help, wisdom, and knowledge is greatly appreciated.