Windows 7 or Windows 8 would be fine for you usage.
I'd try out a Windows 8 machine in a store before you make your final decision. The interface is completely new, but does open up a lot of cool possibilities with future software.
Loading User Information from Channel 9
Something went wrong getting user information from Channel 9
Loading User Information from MSDN
Something went wrong getting user information from MSDN
Loading Visual Studio Achievements
Something went wrong getting the Visual Studio Achievements
Windows 7 or Windows 8 would be fine for you usage.
I'd try out a Windows 8 machine in a store before you make your final decision. The interface is completely new, but does open up a lot of cool possibilities with future software.