Should I really avoid entry level road bikes?

[KnottedYet]

Without a doubt, go with the one that fits the best. If you're feeling a difference on a short ride from the shop, imagine how that will feel 20, 30, 100 miles into a ride. Get the one that fits best.

Yup! Buy the one you love! (and that fits in your price range) There is nothing wrong with entry-level bikes, unless you just don't feel the bike love when you ride them!

I've ridden expensive full-carbon bikes and hated them, I've ridden "cheap" road bikes and loved them, I've ridden sturdy commuter bikes that made my heart sing. I've found cyclocross geometry suits my body nicely, though I've never raced cross and never will. Price and level and type only matter in budgeting! The real thing is the gut-feeling of "this bike is meant for ME" when you ride it.

ETA: you can always find a way to make the bike you love function as a commuter. Clip on "racing blade" fenders, juicy-but-narrow-enough tires, seatpost racks, backpacks, etc.