difference between @font-face and Google Fonts?
 

is the technology the same for these two methods of displaying fonts that aren't already on a surfer's computer?

if not, which one is better/easier to use?

ive used both but if you use the Google Fonts one then you can be assured that you won't run into problems, some fonts aren't licensed for @font-face use like Helvetica

Google fonts are pretty easy to use, actually. Thought it would be a PITA, but they work well.

Download size is an issue though -- you should only call the fonts (and their particular styles) that are used on the page.

i like cufon as well