The Lord of the Rings is one of the most painful book series to read and the Extended Editions serve that well and actually do the books more justice.
That said, I don’t see the point of watching them non-extended. The best way to watch them is to quit your life and watch all three in a row, preferably with several friends, lots of snacks, and booze.
Or while cooking Thanksgiving dinner in Canada.
It’s not a “fun afternoon matinee romp,” it’s a multi-day slog.