I think it depends on your particular presentation of bipolar. I've read that lamictal is good for bipolar II because it works best on depression. I've read that lithium is good for bipolar I because it works best on mania. I've also read that lithium has showed promise in reducing suicide in bipolar patients.

There are others. I've tried depakote but it didn't really work for me. Neither did lamictal or lithium. I'm relying on a combo now, probably seroquel/abilify.