Like it states in the heading, whats the difference between the two (please use common terms, nothing technical) and which one would you recommend?

thanks =]

V9 = HSDPA
V9m = EV-DO
V8 = GSM / EDGE

They have no difference other than being on different networks.

Edit: I recommend getting the version that has the best coverage for the areas you wish to travel in.

i just bought the V8, i think it's better value than V9...same look anyway

sleek phone, just make sure to get the 2G version