I've only been to Phuket/Patong, but from yapping to various guys i've met on my trip, who talked about pattaya/bkk vs patong, and how in your face it all is etc, I'll stick to Patong, more my speed.
Wasn't as if this particular fugly bugger had any trouble enjoying myself and picking up 3 FL/BG's my first 3nights there before sticking with the 3rd one for the rest of the trip.