[xd man]

i want one just unsure of which one, is there much difference in the two.... i know there both good guns. i want to shoot some matches at my local range and also be a defensive gun.

[ZeusEcho]

I have an M&P40 and XDm9, both full size.

For me the M&P is more comfortable but the XDm has a better trigger.

If you're gonna carry, the M&P feels a little more compact at least between my two, but it's not much difference.

Both extremely reliable, have over 2K rounds through them with various ammo and not so much as one hickup. I keep em clean though.

You really need to hold/shoot both and decide for yourself, you can't go wrong with either one.

[ineverFTF]

Like you said they are both good guns.
If you want to shoot matches i suggest a 22lr with a bull barrel at 30 yards

But seriously for a comp gun it depends on what you are more comfortable with.
Zues said he prefers the m&p. I prefer the XD. You might not like either of them
Buy what feels best in your hand and in your carry holster.