Jono, I really like the Apple case not for protection but functionaliy. I like the wedge shape for typing and also folded around to stand at a good angle when viewing a movie on an airplane. My bags always have keys spare change and other stuff jangling around so things get scratched and beaten up pretty easily. I used to protect my iphone and have since stopped (since I seem to upgrade it every year and the size/shape have change I don't see the need for spending on lots of cases) but also it starting to show it's wear.
Since I'm only a wanabee here, I don't have as strong a feeling about some things as some, but having spent some longish time with one twice, I found that I had trouble typing on it flat--thus I would expect I would go with Terry on the Apple case or something similar. I read on my Touch a lot (newspapers and websites primarily) so see that as something that would be more comfortable in some situations than holding it for long periods of time.
The other point would be---I don't want this to be something akin to a laptop for carrying--adding cases, etc. will do that, so the less the better for me. I don't have a camera case that would allow it (I don't think--perhaps one of my domkes would allow it to slip in), but if I carry it with camera, I want the least possible. I actually see mine being used a lot at home and when I carry it out with me, it will be primarily for a trip with camera. Otherwise I'll use the Touch/cell.
Again--I've decided to hold off until those of you getting the 3G have theirs in hand, have used it--or both--for a bit and then make a decision. The wifis are in stock in the Apple store and the 3Gs say ships by May 7th so there's no rush.
Just an update. I've tried the Palm Pre mobile hotspot with laptop and Touch, singly and both connected. The connection is quick and easy, the speed surprised me. There was little difference in speed between my home wifi and using the hotspot. Its a relatively cheap way to use 3G when I need to--which isn't often.