Lenovo Outlet T400s 5400 vs ssd 1.8"HD

I'm looking on the Lenovo outlet site and comparing some T400s machines. There is a 1.8" 5400 HD and another machine has a 128SSD 1.8", otherwise very similar. It's a $320 premium for the SSD, and my question is,
Worth it? Speed, reliability, energy use, all seem superior as I read the various reviews, but, what I can't ascertain is how much of a qualitative difference this investment would lead to. My use is relatively low in the "power" realm, I'll run database's and manage some photo archives, I'll have multiple windows open and I'll be doing it outside (in my greenhouse)

Any feedback on your experience with the T400s would be appreciated as well, in particular I'm still grappling with the warranty issue (cost/benefit) since I'm in Hawaii with high humidity and limited access to repair facilities.
I've also read some forums on the Lenovo website with some really cranky posters, seems there are issues with these 400s machines, don't know if it's prevalent or that the squeaky wheels are dominating the threads.

 

Depends on the SSD. I'm guessing the SSD in the T400s with the SSD is a 128GB Samsung or Toshiba drive, in which case I would say it is not worth it. Add an nice 1.8" Intel X-25M 80GB or 160GB yourself aftermarket for $170 or $350 - both would outperform the Samsung/Toshiba drives in any case.

 

I just checked newegg and they have them for $225 and $435. Did you mean used SSDs ?

 

Yes, it is the Samsung.
I thought about finding the most suitable "good deal" on the Outlet and then upgrade the memory and the HD, but I was concerned about warranty issues (the HD)

 

You meant X-18M?