OK, I bought the Lenova. Still setting it up.
Is the Windows 8.1 update worth the time?
I'll never know. I won't be getting on the Microsoft train cars that are headed for the work camps and gas ovens.
I have modified XP so it cannot access my high speed connection and am running a Linux VM to do internet stuffs. So far, works like a champ. I'll use XP for my offline utility work.
Good luck with the Lenovo.