Been through all of this – went from triple to 1X 9 then 10 many years ago and have been reasonably happy running a 34 chainring. Missed a bit of top end (getting to trails and on the occasions that I do long events when I used to pop it onto the 42 front ring). Was nice and simple for the majority of my riding which was about 2 hours.
Recently decided that I’d move to 2X and am enjoying it so much on F/S that I’m converting the S/S (so I can commute and bike pack on it). Coincided with getting a road bike with a compact chainset and unexpectedly liking it.
I like being able to drop a lot of gears immediately. I like the option of spinning the granny through a range of close gears, seems kinder to my knees. Chainline is much improved. Bit more top end speed at moderate cadence. Not had any recent hassle from FD to report but it obviously adds a little complexity.
So in general I’ve found 2x a bit more versatile for longer trips out. Not tried the 1×11 systems/ dinner plate cassettes etc.