As the launch of Windows 8 nears, the question remains how Microsoft-powered devices — including Microsoft’s forthcoming Surface tablets — will compete with Apple’s iPad when it comes to tablet adoption, particularly in the enterprise.

Apple’s iPad has been a popular choice for companies starting to experiment with mobile computing. The upcoming release of Windows 8, and the Surface, has the potential to disrupt that trend, but according to some PC makers, price could prove to be a major hurdle. 

According to a Bloomberg report, PC maker Lenovo reports that new tablets running Windows 8 will cost as much as $300 more than those running Windows RT, the second version of the upcoming operating system that isn’t quite as feature-heavy and aims more toward consumers with a competitive price point. 

In an Etrade article, other PC makers like Acer not only expressed concern about price, but also noted a lack of customer enthusiasm for Windows 8. Businesses that are used to previous Windows operating systems were shocked by the new Metro user interface that has colorful tiles instead of the usual home screen and Start menu. In fact, Acer and analysts like Gartner and IDC are cutting their annual shipping estimates for Windows 8 devices.

Set pricing hasn’t been released for either model, but Engadget reported a possible $199 price tag for the RT version, while other news outlets have predicted a range from $600 to $1,000 for the full-feature Windows 8 tablets. 

Read more about Lenovo’s point of view here: Lenovo Says RT Tablets Up To $300 Cheaper Than Windows 8.

Read more about Acer and analyst opinions here: Windows 8 May Not Open Onto A New Dawn for PC Makers.

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