I've shot and carried both. You can't go wrong with either of them. In an odd way, the thicker 26 is a little easier to conceal for me, particularly compared to the 7 round mag in the PPS. But that's a small point. Both guns are made for concealed carry. They feel radically different in the hand, so try both before you buy. In Mass, you definitely want to fix the PPS trigger if you go that route.
Crossbreed makes holsters for both and they are the best I've found. Look at their Supertuck, though for these subcompact sized guns I like their QuickClip model even better. The comp-tac MTAC is comparable to Crossbreed's Supertuck if you want a second option.
I've become a little picky about the sights I use and that's one reason to favor the 26. There are tons of options out there for replacement sights and night sights. For the PPS choices are much more limited.
I'll agree with the posters who say that neither is an ideal first gun purchase. These are small guns designed for concealed carry. A larger pistol will be easier to handle and more comfortable for practice. If you want just one gun, the Glock 19 is by far the best all purpose handgun out there. Or, go with the 26 and pick up a 17 or 19 for the range, depending on which grip fits you best. For the PPS, you want a range gun that allows you to practice using the mag release, so look at a Walther P99. While you are at it, check out the Walther P99 compact which is fairly comparable in size to the Glock 26.
Much better in free states do the redonculous mag restrictions in MA.
