Unfortunately a load of bollards to sell lighting fixture maintenance.
Below is typical for a modern tube (T8 is similar). Notice the 20,000 hour bit.
You question on ballast, generally electronic ballast don't need starters. However there are significantly less electronic T8 ballasts on the market as most of the world still uses T8 sized tubes with magnetic ballasts and therefore want magnetic replacements. Also magnet ones cost £3 each compared to £10-£20 for electronic ballasts.
T5 is the way forward, more light per watt, but more light per cm is main advantage.
