I would start with the open chords, and then learn the barre chords. Reason being that most of the barre chords are made up from the open cords. The F chord which is considered an open chord, because it is at the top of the neck is a barre chord.

It is usually the last one I teach a student because of the level of difficulty, and it leads to the other E formation barre chords. The reason I call it an E formation barre chord is because, with the exception of the barre it is an E chord formation.

You can try to learn the barre chords first, but usually the open chords will help get your fingers in shape for the barre chords. It seems as though you are under the impression that barre chords are very easy to do. I know guys that have been playing for years, and they still cant play them right. It's really up to you, but it's my suggestion that you learn the open chords first. If I can be of any more help, let me know.

JD