not really. the larger differences b/t the two lie in network technology (GSM vs. CDMA — which will change eventually, anyway) and availability of features. vzw has a habit of locking down certain features that its gsm counterparts dont (e.g. – gps navigation) and requiring dataplans be purchased before you can even make a phone call with the phone (with gsm based phones, you can just buy the phone and use the PIM / phone features w/ out the use of data).

The BlackBerry Bold on Verizon would do ridiculously well.

However, they are able to do that because they are viewed as having the most stable, reliable coverage. If they ever are knocked off of that perch, then they will have hell to pay from customers or else will have to lower their fees.

Additionally, I would say that VZW is very astute in their marketing. They have a very pervasive ad campaign that drives their message home.

I would say, though, that once the Verizon/Alltel merger is approved, then VZW will once again become the largest wireless carrier in America.

Of course the high standing of VZW is just one more reason why it’s just plain dumb for RIM to not drop the latest and greatest releases concurrently on GSM and CDMA. But watch RIM release the Bold on ATT and then wait about a year to release it on VZW even though there will be huge sales to be had.