tl,dr; get something with a solid state drive and that you want to use. don't worry about the CPU unless you're a gamer or filmmaker.
what does "using high end software" mean?
For watching videos and surfing the web (we all know what you mean by study purpose), you're requirements are satisfied with a tiny processor, you don't need an i7. since you're not specific, I assume you're in this range. most people over-estimate their CPU needs drastically.
when would you need an i7? gaming. video editing. lots and lots of photo editing, rendering images (map, game, video design work). local data db work. please note i do not mean looking the photos from your point and shoot or even dslr.
get something you feel comfortable paying for, something you want to carry around and use. if you like windows 8, get a windows box. if you hate windows and linux, don't buy it. if you hate OS X, don't by a mac.