They can still see the traffic is from the API and they aren't getting the ad revenue so I see it as another form of protest / nonconformity.

If they see people using the free API tier instead of switching to official app and logging in, that's a loss for them.

Doubtful, but anyways mods would be out so fast to uncap it.

Gratz on the PC! 3060ti should be pretty good if paired with decent processor!