It has been a while since I last tried KDE so I tried again - using Kubuntu. All I got was a bottom panel and never found any way of getting an equivalent to the Gnome Shell.

But it also reminded me why I have never liked KDE - it just feels too busy with too much going on. I prefer things simpler visually as well as functionally. Yes, I'm one of those people who are quite happy when Gnome go around removing configurability (right up till the point it is an option I use). I try to use defaults as much as possible and find it important that they are appealing and well thought out.

Well, you should look for 'Screen Edges' in System Settings. There you can define the proper action for top-left corner (set it to Present Windows effect). Also, you can remove the bottom panel and/or configure it to look like windows, mac or gnome shell.

But if you are a person who prefers to stick with defaults, well, KDE's defaults are very old and plain.

That isn't what Gnome shell does - many window managers can do that and it is mostly useless to me since I have so many windows (that are the same) open - taskbars work easier.

The useful bits of Gnome shell show up when you press the Windows key (far easier than trying to find a spot on a dual screen setup). Sure you get the window selector, but far more usefully you can start typing stuff and it finds useful matches (apps, contacts etc). It also has a nicer notification system, as well as improved 'tray' (whatever they call it).