Wow. I just went through exactly the same experience with the Rock Pi 4B, + M.2 extender, + 1TB NVMe SSD, + Heatsink, + Noctua cooling fan, + PWM temp controller, + Power switch, + barrel jack, + 2 x DIY aluminum cases. =~$400 + labor, only to end up with a less than functional OS.
Really had to think twice about purchasing another RK3399. But, the connectivity of the EDGE-V was irresistible. I could even salvage the 1TB SSD from the Rock Pi 4b. For 2 months, it beckoned me. The EDGE-V is a far superior design and build quality. It’s a much more mature and full featured product, including power options (like a power button). With the heatsink and M2x extender board, the EDGE-V is still only half the height of the Rock Pi 4b.
You’re absolutely right about the form factor of the EDGE-V (it’s so cute). It’s much easier to package with other devices inside a case, with all of the external connections along one side. And, as you have mentioned, there’s less desktop clutter of cables.
I’ll be using my EDGE-V as the central environmental controller/security camera for an aquaponic greenhouse. It will communicate over WiFi with remote ESP32 sensors. So, $200 is a small price to pay for such a device.
Also purchased a RPi 4B for evaluation purposes. It could probably do the same job, at half the price. 
Hmm, then I could keep the EDGE-V on my desk, having fun with the stereoscopic cameras, gesture controls, IR features, etc. Why should it sit on top of a pole, instead of the RPi 4B?
I really love this SBC!