I have both systems. I've played both systems.
PS3 is the one I play 98% of the time. I like the controller better. There are arguments for both controllers, but for me the PS3 just feels better. The analog sticks seem to have more prescision.
the 360 UI is far superior to the PS3. xbox has the cool avatars, layout is better and community events are cool. Cross game chat is nice. the only disavantage of the 360 UI is the on screen keyboard. It's not a QWERTY keyboard and it drives me nuts.
XBL fee drives me nuts too. I can't really stand paying the monthly fee to game. It just seems like wasted dollars to me when I have the ability to play for free. Both consoles have their pros and cons. I'd weigh them out before trading everything to find out you don't like the PS3. If you have a friend that has one, play a few hours on it and build your pro/con list.
Hope that helps