Can we actually call it a -free- char, when the player will spend 4x as many resources getting gear and meeting char/level needs though?
Think about it, we already have the Cartel Market, which -greatly- enhances many aspects of the game. Those with "money to spend", already have a leg up, and that's the way Swtor meant it to be at this point, they're making good money off the Cartel Market.
No one's "forcing" anyone to buy xp increase potions. The ones who want it, purchase them. Those who don't, they don't have to.
There's a LOT more to this game than "leveling", and I think a surprising number of players would prefer to get to that endgame content quicker. I know I do, as do most of the folks I game with. Endgame content and gear itself, is a never ending challenge already lol. Now with strongholds and guild ships, leveling should be less of a drag. I've been playing this game since release. It's the 12x XP that I have enjoyed enough to come back to the game and stay.
I would also like to add, that upon having returned, I've noticed a -drastic- decrease in quests, missions, and pvp match xp rewards. Seems only fair to give back a little, yeah?