For me, hands down Bread was by far better than the Carpenters. They wrote, produced, and arranged their own music. Plus they played their own instruments.
But the songs also have more meaning to me, and the lyrics are honest. "Everything I Own" was written in memory of his father. I guess when I think of the Carpenters, I mostly think of Christmas songs. When I think of Bread I think of innocence and the simple pleasures of love, life, and inspiration.
Plus, Bread had two singers in their group--David Gates (who sang all the hits) and James Griffin who showed off the bands rockier moments.
Sure, the Carpenters had more hits--but Bread had better ones.

The carpenters coz i haven't heard bread .

A lot of people say they haven't heard of Bread, but most people have heard at least a couple of their songs. I'd say "Make It With You", "Baby I'm-a Want You" and "If" were there three biggest hits (all of which can be heard in small doses on VH1's "I love the 70's--1970 show), right after they play two Carpenters songs. One more reason I think is Bread is better: My favorite song is "Aubrey", and thousands of girls have been named after that song. I can't think of any Carpenters songs that have girls named after them. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind the Carpenters, I just think Bread had more talent and is an overall better band.

I'll take Bread.