Electric standing desk vs manual standing desk?

Manual desks are fine if you don't adjust often. Electric wins on convenience, especially if multiple people use it. The noise and potential motor issues are downsides. Consider the long-term reliability vs. initial cost savings.

For your use case, a manual crank desk is probably the better choice. Two or three adjustments a day won't be too strenuous. You'll save a decent amount of money upfront, and you eliminate the risk of motor failure down the road. Electric desks are great if you are constantly changing positions, but that doesn't sound like you.