I have this exact model and have attempted to use trackpoint under Ubuntu and it is just slow and I'm constantly overshooting my target. I'm so much better with the trackpad that I really wonder how people that use trackpoint swear by it. I must be missing something.
Increase the sensitivity to max and try to guide it using just light touches. It's supposed to be relaxing on the fingers, if there's any finger strain, your sensitivity is too low.
I do this, but I can see how many people would have a hard time giving up the touchpad. The gestures are nice and I do have more control on a good touchpad. However, for my use case not having to move off home row beats touchpad gestures.
Then you still don't have a good trackpad. Besides, the trackpoint is drifting across all models. I like to use it, but it's beyond my imagination why people think this is the best a manufacturer could do.