Cheap and easy hair colour over gray?

[Nifty50something]

Inspired by the recent thread on here about highlights - is there another way of getting a nice hair colour that looks professional without going through all that hassle and expense?

I have naturally mousy hair that has gone gray. Currently I get my hair cut and coloured every six weeks, alternating between root touch up and highlights. Averaging it out this costs £60 per month and is time-consuming.

I don't want to go gray and natural because warm tones suit my skin whereas gray makes me look washed out and exhausted. I haven't used box dye at home since I was a teenager, and I've never tried temporary colours or toners over gray or anything like that.

I'm just wondering if anyone has any advice or ideas on how to maybe do my own colour or else perhaps I should just ask my hairdresser to dye my hair one colour rather than highlights? What does everyone else do?

I use Wella Koleston colour at home
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0869PS7D7?psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_ct_93FR61YHDN5HT1GEZF4M - much more choice of shades and better quality than normal box dye. You just have to buy the peroxide 6% separately. This gives great natural coverage but for my 8/34 shade the red fades a bit, so I top up every few washes with this in copper https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0CC4RT615/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_6?smid=A8L26L29L9A97&psc=1
It's really easy I think. Highlights probably need more technique.

Personally I wouldn’t touch at home colour. I’d keep getting it done in a salon. Especially if you’re mousy and go lighter with highlights.

I think it’s easier to dye grey hair when you’re putting a dark dye on dark hair. You’ll never be able to get a good highlight at home.

I like a brand called Herbatint , and have found the conditioner that it comes with to be really good . Certainly make sure you get some hair dye applicator bottles as these make it much easier to apply.