I played FFXI for six years (started on PS2 and eventually moved to PC). Yes, TOR is much easier than XI was. Once they increased the level cap from 75 and introduced Abyssea, FFXI became easy button too. Also their expansions became lack luster and just rehashed preexisting maps. I quit playing XI when TOR came out, which was just before they increased the level cap from 90 to 99. I was already stomping the crap out of stuff on my 90 Beastmaster.
I don't miss the extreme grind of FFXI, but I do wish TOR was a bit more difficult. Hate is pretty much a non issue in this game. As said previously, mobs fight pretty much the same. This is really why for the first time I'm really into PVP. PVP is really the only thing that offers a real challenge.
I do like that I don't have to play for three hours to get something accomplished. I like the crafting system in this game because I can do other stuff while I craft.