I love gerbils. The only reason I have a hamster is because his personality was awesome. Gerbils IMO are a little friendlier and I am such a sucker for those big black eyes!
Becki - Is there anything that is legal to own in CA LOL!
I don't know how different they are from rats, care wise. I've never had a rat. I would like to get one, but not until I'm out of my mom's house! LOL she puts up with anything but rats and snakes
Look wise, I think they are a lot different too, but that may just because I'm partial to hairy tails