I didn't really do any research before buying this one. One advantage of the return policies these days. No guilt, as it was already un boxed.
I loaded 8.1 and
Classic Shell - Start menu and other Windows enhancements I had assumed one could make it look 'normal' without third-party software, but I followed Brian Burgess' column and it works, but looks somehow lackluster.
OBG, Did you use W8.1 facilities only?
Given MG's comment, I may search a bit harder for a bargain though I don't want it for games etc., just want to be a little future-proof. Just not paying the tax is significant, but soooo much cheaper than the UK VAT. One will look around.
Office 2010 loaded fine in 8.0 but unless I use a big screen, I'd hate to be at 1920 X 1080 res on this little patch. 1440 is perfect for me, and my LG screen, now in the UK, refreshes at 75 which I value.
Now it's a case of playing with this for a week, and then perhaps trying the downgrade.
AAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaagh! Just rebooted it, and it now wants a @#$^% password.