I can definitely see your dilemma, NY. I looked at all your photos and am not sure which I'd pick either! I like the look of the actual cork but would I like it all over the floor...it's hard to say. I suspect after a brief getting-used-to-it period, I would. It's just "different" compared to the hardwood I'm so used to.

I have seen that very matte fake hardwood in a couple of stores and casual restaurants and liked it; I wonder if it was cork? I do remember thinking that it was probably not real wood; for one thing, it was not as hard (so maybe it was cork), but I don't mind "fakes", so long as they look nice. I think it does look nice, though the color of the one you are looking at is darker than I would because of showing light hairs and dust.

Decisions decisions! It's definitely a big decision so you want to feel good about it.