RE: You don't need Windows 8...
You won't have XP for long. The Start-menu-less Mac is for the those who can afford it. And Linux? Linux is a pipe dream. As I've stated before Linux is best in customized environments where it can be molded into dedicated service. Smartphones and tablets and interfacing with proprietary hardware is where Linux excels. On a desktop is not where Linux is at home. It's not a Jack o' all Trades, not even close.