Looking for my first board, please help!

[jaffa1949]

That is a ride and see question, and since I have not ridden either its a hmmm
Length might be equal, profile slightly different that is the plan shape, rocker both tail and nose can effect paddle power but enhance turning, rail shape and its changes throughout the profile determines how the board applies the force of your turn into the wave as do fins,
Everything will be more finely tuned and responsive than the soft board which you said was slow to turn. This won't be so on either.
The blurb on each talks about how responsive and wonderful they are . They are likely to feel over active at first and I reckon either will fill your needs and improvement needs for quite some time.

Good surfers can get pretty amazing turns even airs out of a full long board so mid lengths and chopped longboards can do it too.
Zou will need to really construct a good basic kit of skills and then enhance and expand them over time and with one board for a while.
Identify how you want to surf, get someone to do videos of you surfing, it will bring a realistic appraisal of your skills post them here and we can advise , correct and help you progress.

[thebailers]

Thanks so much Jaffa - you have been absolutely incredible. I think my heart is set on the Phil Grace board. As you say, at my level, both are going to last me years! The Demibu is over £100 cheaper too!