Earlier quoted context omitted.
Matrix seems to lack a good high density client. The only one that's really full featured is Element but it's very consumerish and uses lots of screen space. As soon as you bridge multiple IRC networks and have lots of other chats open, the chat list becomes really messy imo.
Element Web has various high density modes including a dedicated IRC style mode which looks and behaves like xchat?
I'd prefer a light desktop client though. I didn't spend much time with the web version, perhaps this is why I missed it. But I will definitely give it a try!
By the way I understand the focus on consumer usability, as it's needed for wider adoption. I'd really love for matrix to become mainstream.