I don't think it 'Blows Win8 Away" at all...but,
I have been using Windows 8 Preview Release and seriously like it very much. And the Start Screen doesn't pose a problem, for me anyway. I had Ubuntu 12.04 installed and, despite being able to tweaking it, I didn't gel with the style and ended up switching to Mint 12, which I like better.
The Amazon part is great if you live in the US - what about Amazon.co.uk?
I cannot see much difference in 12.10. But Windows 8 was what really impressed me the most. I think it is a matter of opinion, taste, and so on. Mint will be kept on my Computers, I have been looking forward to the release of Ubuntu 12.10 but I feel a tad unimpressed as I was expecting more. Yet October 26th is what I am looking forward to the most.
Again, personal taste and I think that both offer 'some' things the other doesn't.
