I would have to say......gel. Assuming you are talking about canned cream vs. gel? I dont use either but if I was stuck on an island I would go with gel. I have had incredible luckk with non aerosol gels also. My favorite is Aveda rosemary mint gel which is fabulous stuff. BTW...Welcome to TSD
First, Welcome to TSD. Now the question, If the choice is cream in a can vs. gel in a can, I choose neither. Before "discovering" using a shaving brush, I had better results with a cartridge and just water than with canned goo. A good shave soap (Mitchell's Wool Fat being my personal favorite) give me by far the best shave. I've never tried a gel I like. Some creams (non-canned varietes) are good. I think Kiss My Face is as good as many that cost several times more.