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Gears
1x11 is common now, still quite simple.
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Get a 1x setup and be done.
Get 2 wheelsets if you really want to switch it over to winter road use. Found changing tyres is a massive pain.
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+1 to what @laner said. I would say if you have the money to choose, get gears. Because if you don't like it, you can then convert it into a gravel bike by doing nothing else other than sticking bottles in the bottle cages.
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For low level racing though, is there much in it?
I don't think so, no. With a singlespeed there are going to be times when you lose ground on those you are racing against, but in muddy courses especially, the lack of clogging points on your drivetrain mean you can ride when others can't and you don't have to stop to remove mud from the bike. You probably have to dismount and remount a bit more on singlespeed, but that's a good skill to learn anyway.
My best results last year, in terms of finishing position, were on a singlespeed and @Jon. wins races on a singlespeed competing against other talented riders on gears, so you can be competitive still (if you have the engine).
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Ramsaye
spinnnout
youramericanlover
andyp
@JamesQGM
Want to get a CX bike ready for the Autumn so I have some enjoyable racing and cycling to do over the winter.
As a complete CX newb am I better going off with SS or gears? I like the simplicity and cheapness of building up a SS but a geared bike could also double as my winter road trainer. For low level racing though, is there much in it?