The short version
Bang Bua Thong is an outer western suburb of housing estates, local commercial strips and large roads. It is a rational choice for space and a lower intensity daily life, not for a short central Bangkok commute. The district feels suburban because most useful destinations are separated by road rather than connected by pleasant pavements.
The rail corridor
The Purple Line around Bang Rak Yai and Bang Phlu gives the eastern side a clear route into Nonthaburi and Tao Poon. West of the stations, estates and sois spread out. A station name on a listing is not enough: check whether the last leg is walkable or requires a feeder service.
Daily life
Bang Bua Thong is built around markets, schools, temples, estate shops and big roadside retail rather than a single town centre. It works well for a household with a predictable home routine and poorly for a person who wants spontaneous central evenings. Cars are useful, but they make traffic on the main roads part of the calculation.
Verdict
Choose Bang Bua Thong with a destination in mind. If your work is along the Purple Line, the eastern edge can be sensible. If you cross into central Bangkok every day, the cheaper and larger home may not compensate for the time spent reaching it.