I'm very happy with Win8 and I haven't installed the classic start button.
I find it quicker and more stable than Win7 but it will take a while to bed in.
I don't believe a touch screen is needed. works fine with just a mouse even for the metro UI.
The Mac would be a steep learning curve if you're used to Windows a lot and perhaps in IT, but should be simple enough for the home user as its designed to be simple.
Just be aware of the costs of upgrades or add-ons like Apple TV, external apple hard drives and so on, they can add up quite quickly.
its nice to have a Mac, but I find the Win7 or Win8 PC/Laptop can do the same/similar for a lot less.
I found this a good buy and got it for my wife who's never used Win8 before and is not IT savvy. she's happy.
http://dicksmith.com.au/product/XC85...031tu-notebook