speed play pedals worth it, also shifter question

[ibikebetter]

i am buying a bike and have to decide what pedals to get, i have eye one some speedplays, bottom of their line
i also have access to some free eggbeaters which i am thinking i will use till i can afford the speed plays it it work getting the speeds plays now or even at all

what levle of shimano shifter brake is needed for good performan