Should I get a multi-entry tourist visa or use visa exemption for my trips to Thailand?

I plan to return to Thailand around September 15th from the US. I have already gone to Thailand 2 other times this year. first trip in January for 18 days. Next trip was 60 but extended for another 25. Im planning another 60 day trip end of the year. I’m looking at buying the 200 dollar 6 month multi entry tourist visa. Or will it be fine to just fly in from the US on a visa exemption and save the 200 dollars. I’ve seen lots of conflicting information. Some people seem to think since I left the country and returned home I could do another visa exempt trip. because there isn’t technically a limit to the amount of trips one is allowed.

I don’t mind paying the 200 dollars for the multi entry tourist visa. I don’t work when I’m in Thailand and I have financial means to support myself. I was leaning on the mutil entry tourist visa because I want to visit Thailand a few more times before second to move permanently. I don’t qualify for retirement visa because I’m too young and I will most likely have to marry my girlfriend. Which I do plan on doing but I’m still dating her. it’s been only 6 months 1/2 long distance. While I’m doing ok financially I don’t qualify for the rich millionaire visa, I looked at the DTV, but I don’t take any classes or have a job to work remotely yet. Maybe I could sign up for language classes since my Thai is very limited.

I want to do everything legal and not overstay or get banned from my future. potential homeland. I love Thailand like many of you here and can see myself being happy for the rest of my life there is a real possibility.

Please feel free to answer if you have any information that reliable and relevant to my situation. I know the visa exempt may go down to 30 which is why I’m looking at the multI entry tourist visa as the likely option.

Thanks.