Tubeless is genuinely better for gravel and mountain biking: lower pressure, more grip, and small punctures seal themselves.
For pure road commuting, the benefit is smaller. You still get fewer pinch flats, but you need to top up sealant every few months and a large cut can still end your ride.
The setup cost is labour plus sealant and valves. If your rims are not tubeless-ready, add tape and possibly new rims to the budget.
Our advice: tubeless for anything ridden off pavement or at low pressure. Tubes are fine for a fair-weather commuter who does not mind the occasional flat.
From the bench
Tubeless Setup — from $20
Written quote before we start, 30-day workmanship warranty, and you can track the job from your phone.