“I would really prefer a third option.”
Consider the Ubuntu flavor of Linux.
Fast, easy and FREE!
My wife’s laptop had an early hard drive failure and the back up OS was on the drive!
Microsoft was helpful, $35 to mail me a new OS on disks. No complaints from me about MS.
I installed a new HD and loaded Ubuntu.
Our daughter said “Mom will never use Linux!”
With just a little help finding replacement software for her photo collection, she has had no problems!
Having installed for many friends and family, I have had very few issues. Fast easy help is readily available.
Try it you may like it!
Did mention it’s FREE!!
http://www.ubuntu.com/download