I have a Ruger SR9, and have put 600 rounds through it without a single problem. The "loaded chamber indicator" is NOT that large at all. You don't even see it when sighting in a target. The SR9 is a fantastic handgun with an insane amount of aftermarket parts. I put a 3.5 pound trigger on mine, and I'm lovin' it.
Either gun will do, I just have more experience with the SR9. You'd save at least a hundred bucks with the Ruger though!
for the quality, and ergonomics Id go with the XD. I dont like the blocky feel of the ruger but it has great reviews in magazines. The ruger does have a manual safety which i do like a lot though.