Cots cots cots [:s]

So many cots it's hard to know what's what! They all look very similar yet some are much cheaper than others, and of course some are far more expensive! Any brands/styles that are good, or that should be steered clear of?

We're looking for one that can be pushed up against the bed with one side off so baby can sleep next to us but in his own space. Anyone else do this, or have done this in the past? What sort of cot did you have and what did you like/not like about it?

A family friend has offered to buy us one so cost is a factor but the most important thing is that it's safe and functional!

You can try Trademe too, I got a decent wooden one for $150, which will convert into a bed later. Haven't got the baby to really try it out yet, but otherwise is in good condition.
Best and worst brands, I'm not sure of.

We have an old bassinette that we put beside the bed in the early weeks; within 6 weeks all of our girls have been in the cot in their own room.

Our cot we bought from babycity and it's much the same as the other ones that people have mentioned. Adjustable base, sides that come off to form a first bed, easily adjustable side rail.   

Some cots come with a teething rail, which could come in handy.

A great tip: build the cot in the room that you want it to be in. Sounds obvious doesn't it, but DH put the cot together in the sitting room and then had to pull it apart because it didn't fit around the bend in the hallway or go through the doorway into DDs room - much swearing ensued. :)