Getting ready to Switch from WM. Lots of Questions(Sprint)

[JohnMcD348]

OK, My Touch Pro 2 decided to stop working and I would have to replace the phone(microphone has stopped working). So I need to find out about making the switch as easily as possible. I've been a Windows Mobile user for many years and I know my software library will be useless. What I am concerned with most is about my Contacts and Calender. Does it link well with programs like Outlook? I don't know much about GMail and their calender but I'm assuming I'll learn very soon.

Am I able to use Android with other Email servers other than GMail? I have accounts with Verizon, Brighthouse and an account at work.

Also, I'm a Sprint user, have been for many years from NexTel up. I'm looking at the different Android phones and want to know which one offers the greatest features and has the best reliability and known issues.

I'm looking at the EVO and Epic. 4G isn't important to me, they don't have it in my area anyway. I do want the slide out keyboard though.

I'll have more questions throughout the day/week. I appreciate the help you all have given me through the years.