Making a plung into andriod

[OhioG]

Hey guys.

I am a newcomer into the world of smartphones. I am with Verizon and I am between the Thunderbolt and Charge. As I look around, I am trying to get as much information as I can before I commit to a phone. I saw that the Charge has a fairly simple rooting method. Is the Thunderbolt just as simple? Also what exactly happens when you root a phone? Is it like doing a clean install of Windows where all it is, is just a Microsoft Windows and none of the HP company software? What exactly is flashing a ROM? If I root, will I still be able to use contact manager from Verizon? After rooting, does the battery life increase? I mean I know I will be doing all the things like turning off Wifi, LTE when not in use, using darker non animated wallpapers, etc.

Sorry for all the questions but I am so confused when it comes to Android modding.

 

[yodatom10]

Thunderbolt also has a simple rooting method
When you root the phone you get access to everything on the phone and will be able to make changes to software and hardware that Verizon did not want you to do (if you root you void your warranty)
Yes you can still use contact manager as long as your Rom supports it.
A Rom is OS that maid used from the open sorce code it ussly contains the latest and greatest things and will let you change the whole entire makeup of your phone

Welcome to android central if you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask.