V brakes work in essentially the same way as cantilevers, but the lever is longer so more force can be applied. They also have a side-pull mechanism, so that you don't have to mess around with cable hangers and the like.

For your immediate needs, Vs will be more than adequate, if you get the wheel sorted too. However, if you want to buy something to look to put on your future bike as a long-term proposition, I'd be more inclined to go with the maguras.