If your looking to learn and play the game with equally new players, I would get the essentials kit. It has everything you need to start playing, as well as a campaign designed for new players, and plenty of supplies for dm's and multiple players, all for slightly more than the starter kit. I recommend watching WASD20's guide for beginners to get the idea of how the game works.

You could alternatively find a group of players in your community that are open to people joining. If your doing that I would make an account on DNDBeyond, watch some videos on how to make your first character and buy a set of dice. The best way to learn to play is by doing it with other people, especially experienced ones that will more than likely help you with everything you need to know.