What is the best visa option for traveling in Thailand for a year while minimizing future travel hassles?

Just trying to figure out the best plan of action. I want to come to Thailand for a year and then spend the next year travelling throughout Asia. My concern is if I get an education Visa for a year will it affect my travels back into the country for future years. Would it be best to get a METV instead and try to extend? What if I don't get any visas and every month or two I do a border run by plane? I will stay in neighboring country for a few days at least and then cross back is that safer than trying to do land crossings. I understand there is no limit for flying in but then why do people get the METV if they can just leave Thailand and come back normally without it? What happens if you get denied entry are you able to try again the next day or are you banned for a certain amount of days? If crossing into different countries is easier and will save me from future hassles because of obtaining a Ed visa then maybe I should just try that option? I know lots of questions, I appreciate all the help and info in advance 🙏