This is my take.
You don't need cleats when commuting. However after about a week using cleats becomes second nature, so why not just use them. I find the main benefits of cleats when commuting is keeping your foot from slipping off in heavy rain. Other benefits are pretty small, but given how easy they are why not.

I think the deciding point is if you want to change your shoes. If you plan to have "biking shoes" you might as well go with cleats. If you'd like shoes that you use on the bike but also walking around then cleats are probably a pain.

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