Should I pick up totsc or icewind dale they are both $15 and I'm wondering what to get?

If you own Baldur's Gate, then the Tales of the Sword Coast EXPANSION will add some extras to your game. If it's the conglomerate Baldur's Gate with TotSC already in it, then you're fine to purchase it, and not need anything else. As far as which game to purchase, that's up to the type of gaming you enjoy. Baldur's Gate has a very expansive map, with literally hundreds of subquests, and different areas to go to, and differnt things to do, completely independant of the main plot. IWD is a more linear game, structured around the main storyline, and it doesn't allow you to really explore as much, you're mostly confined to exploring the areas that are important to the main plot. Both games are quite long and involving, both have expansions (Tales of the Sword Coast for Baldur's Gate, and Heart of Winter for IWD) and both have online downloadable expansions. In addition to this, You can export your character from BG1 to BG2. I'm not entirely positive but I think you can do the same for IWD1 and IWD2. Really it ocmes down to the type of plot you like: Linear hack and slash (IWD) or slightly more strategic, with lower level fighting and level advancement (BG).

tales from the sword coast is best to install from the start if you can get it because it does enhance alot of things in the game and improves alot of things you might not even notice most of the time, plus durlags tower is huge and will take ages to work your way through but for that alone makes things worthwhile.

If you can afford it, buy both. Everything ryaldin and grungi said is true. I'll add that in Icewind Dale, you create your entire party and go dungeon trolling. Very few quests to keep track of, so Icewind Dale is good for getting home from work, and shutting your brain off for a few hours. :D The Tales of the Sword Coast expansion adds some fun gaming areas, but is not necessary to the story line. I have enjoyed both games.

Between the two, I'd say Tales... I personally liked it over Icewind Dale, but that's just me.

Of the two I'd have to say Tales also... Especially if you're thinking of picking up BGII, as your stats, exp and some items can be carried over from one game to the other...