I took a longer look at that thread: [Standards] Road and Gravel Drivetrains - Cranks and BB's
As well as: Nerd Crank Database - Google Drive
And I have gathered that there are plenty of crank options, some perhaps even cost effective for the beginner. For example: the Easton cranks you linked as well as some brands I’m not familiar with listed in the Nerd Database.
Although, my understanding for avoiding this (road/gravel) style of component selection, as well as it’s modern standards is that it is less straightforward. There are a couple options but both have their drawbacks:
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Mix and match parts to get the best of both worlds, example: MTB disc brakes with road shifters. As stated there is potential for errors in part selection with this setup. Personally not something I want to tackle at the get-go but perhaps some cool tricks and hints one could gather over time
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Commit to the modern road standards including flat mount brakes which could be difficult for the first time builder. As well as you have said, the modern drivetrains equivalent to a Deore budget are not as smooth, reliable, etc. They also just sound boring: “flat”
sorry.
For modern parts and standards: MTB seems to be the reliable entry option for the first time builder.
Of course, the decision is up to the passion of the builder and if one is already making a lugged frame with canti-posts for their first frame, vintage parts could be a great option. Or the tiagra groupset with rim brakes.
The experience of the builder and what they have on hand would definitely play a role as well. If I had the experience @wzrd had with the mixed drivetrains, maybe I would be more comfortable trying those out.