Laptop for hardcore development

[kidwid]

I am a masters student and professional developer and usually develop for multiple platforms (especially mobile platforms). As my thesis, I would be working on virtualization, artificial intelligence etc. Now I was thinking that should I go for a thinkpad given that I have heard that they are pretty solid in terms of performance and also I would like to stretch my system to its extreme. I am currently looking at Thinkpad Edge E430. In my country they have two variations: One with 2nd Gen i5 with 4GB DDR2 and the other with 3rd Gen i5 with 2GB DDR3. The price difference between these is approx 160 USD.

I have also looked up at Thinkpad T series, but if they are worth my work I may consider buying it too.

What is suggested in this case ?

 

[azathoth]

3rd Gen i5 with 2GB DDR3

Then you can purchase extra RAM yourself for ~$60 for 2x4GB sticks.

 

[kidwid]

Also, is thinkpad better than dell vostros ? My previous dell inspiron cannot stand even an hour with linux. So overheating is another issue. Are thinkpads (E430) good at handling heat ?
Would going for a T series be worth ?