Probably going to buy a Thinkpad T530 Tonight - Suggestions?

After some help in the "What Notebook Should I Buy" thread, I think that I am going to buy a Thinkpad T530. Here is the link to that thread: http://forum.notebookreview.com/what-notebook-should-i-buy/680623-completely-overwhelmed.html. Here is the configuration I came up with. I probably don't need some of this stuff, and perhaps other things that I have left out. I would appreciate any feedback.

ThinkPad T530
• Intel Core i5-3210M Processor (3M Cache, up to 3.10 GHz) $30
• Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium (64 bit)
• 15.6" HD+ (1600 x 900) LED Backlit AntiGlare Display, Mobile Broadband Ready $50
• NVIDIA NVS 5400M Graphics with Optimus Technology, 1GB DDR3 Memory $50
•720p HD Camera with Microphone $30
• 4 GB PC3-12800 DDR3 (1 DIMM)
• UltraNav with Fingerprint Reader $20
• 500GB Hard Disk Drive, 5400rpm* $10
• DVD Recordable
• 9 Cell Li-Ion TWL 70++ $50
• Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 AGN $20
• Mobile Broadband upgradable
• 1 Year Depot/Express Warranty
• 3YR Onsite + 3YR ThinkPad Protection $147.63

*Would I be better off going with the 320GB Hard Disk Drive, 7200rpm?

Things I did not choose, but am wondering if I should have
• 16GB mSATA Solid State Cache Drive $40.00
• Bluetooth 4.0 with Antenna $40.00

Accessories I am considering buying
• Lenovo USB 2.0 Port Replicator with Digital Video (US) $79.99
• Kensington Twin Head Cable Lock from Lenovo $39.20
• Some sort of case?

And just to confuse everyone
• I am a bit concerned about not having a keypad. Was the transition difficult? (maybe it will give me incentive to learn to use the number row. I have only been typing on a regular basis for 15 years)
• Would I be better off going with the T430?

Thanks in advance

 

I'd skip the nVidia, unless you need it for some specific purpose.

If you plan to get system running faster, get the 500GB 5400rpm for data, and an aftermarket mSATA SSD (at least 128GB) to use as system drive. Otherwise 320GB 7200rpm.

Dock-wise, avoid the USB 2 port replicator. USB2 video and Ethernet adapters are really to be used as a last resort, and docking/undocking will require getting the power supply from the laptop bag, connecting that to AC and the laptop, and plugging in the replicator. If you need a dock, get Mini-Dock Series 3 (~$80-120 on ebay) so dock/undocking is simple and reliable, without any drivers to install.

 

no backlit keyboard?

As for Bluetooth I chosen a Bluetooth for x220 for use when I travel.

 

I would get rid of the fingerprint reader and Nvidia graphics options (unless you have a particular need for it, it is really just a marginal upgrade over the integrated HD 4000 graphics). Instead, I would stretch the budget by opting for the FHD screen. It will cost $130 more if you forgo the options that I just listed. Don't get the 16GB mSata cache drive. You are better off doing an upgrade yourself for a much larger mSata (albeit more expensive) to use as your boot drive at a later date. You should upgrade when you have the time and money for it. It is definitely worth it.

As for Bluetooth, that is really just personal preference. The fact that you are asking whether you need it or not probably means you really don't need it. I use it occasionally for one of my Bluetooth mice, but if I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't get it.