Not necessarily.
If I do that, I've got to physically connect it to the micro, and then also implement some software interface in the micro.

Not necessarily a big deal, true - I've done it before:



It just seems that it'd be easier if I can get a devkit with everything readymade all on one board.


Yes, that's a risk.
But, again, a ready-made devkit (and supporting materials) reduces the risk.

I also think that this particular "learning curve" can be put down as an "investment"