How big of a difference are cross type points on DSLR?

I'm considering the Nikon D5100 after not being able to afford the Canon T4i.
I read online some people complaining about the D5100's AF point and how it's "disgusting", and that it only has one cross-type focus point?

How much of a difference is having 1 vs 9 cross type focus points? Is it just that it's easier to use, or does it produce a better image?

Added (1). Also. Are these Nikon D5100 VS Canon 60D images accurate?
http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Nikon_D5100/sample_images.shtml
http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Canon_EOS_60D/sample_images.shtml

In those images the 60D ones look really bad compared to the D5100, especially the color and contrast of the ocean. Are they accurate or was it just the person using it that messed up?

Added (2). Sorry I forgot ONE more thing!:
Can the human eye detect this difference in the screen resolution?
1, 040k dots vs 920k dots

The website I got that info from states that the 1, 040k dots resolution screen makes it easier to tell if the image is accurately focused.

If you've used a manual-focus camera with a split-prism in the center of the focusing screen, you can recognize same basic principle at work. As with that, the pattern you're focusing on has to be conveniently aligned against the direction of the split prism for it to be of any use.

To just address the focus points. If you use the nine points what you're actually doing is allowing the camera over you because you're letting it decide where to focus.

A single point, dead center, gives you control of where focus is set.

As to the cameras. What I think you're seeing is the 60D is showing you what's actually there, the Nikon is showing an image with colors, especially blue enhanced. That's probably the way the cameras are set up.

You can get the same kinds of images from the Canon… I know because I own Canon. If it's set up like the Nikon is, it'll look just the same.

You've mentioned another thing that can be important. With any dslr camera you don't want to use the screen - that's for snappers with pocket toys. The view finder is there for a reason. These cameras are intended for serious photography. If you're just a snapper then buy a pocket toy and save some money. If you're serious about photography get off the screen thing and get serious.

Picture quality depends on the user's ability. The camera is only a tool. If you know exactly what you are doing, you will get the same picture no matter what camera you use.

Focus is also the user's responsibility. The camera only offers technology to help you focus better.