windows 8.1 or windows 7

If I were buying a new computer, I would get Windows 7. I've played with Windows 8.1 and it has to many "features" that aren't. They're just different to be different, or to look like a big phone or tablet. Both will be upgradeable to Windows 10 so stick with a decent OS in the meantime. Do get the fastest CPU and most memory, at least 8 gig, also an SSD for boot speed and quick all around operation.