Speaking with AllThingsD, Sinofsky explained that Microsoft and its partners work to bring down the cost of devices, so that a student, for example, can buy a Windows computer that will last them through their college life. He pointed to one Windows 8 machine in particular, and said, "It's $279, here we are, talking about seven inch recreational tablets for $329."
Of course, while there are cheap PCs, laptops and such that run Windows 8 available, Microsoft's Surface tablet sells for $499, and if you want the optional cover/touch keyboard, it costs $599. When Microsoft launches the Surface Pro tablet next year, running the full Windows 8 operating system, it is expected to start at around $799.
Sinofsky may have been entitled to have a shot at Apple's latest tablet - which has received criticism for its price point elsewhere too - as Apple CEO Tim Cook didn't have a problem describing Microsoft's latest offering as compromised and confusing.