Favorite birth control?

I have been considering going on BC for a while now. Just haven't had insurance or money to pay out of pocket for it until now. I am using it just for the purpose of preventing pregnancy. My periods are good, skin is clear, cramps are minimal, etc. What are you ladies' favorite forms of birth control? Me and my boyfriend have been using condoms but would like to switch to a condom-free method. Pill? Nuva? Sponges? Patches? If anyone has used BC without the need of a prescription how effective did it seem to be and did you like it?