It's still quicker and easier than using a chain splitter and re-joining the chain with a new rivet - especially if the quick link is re-useable. (Seems to me there isn't much advantage for single use quick links).
Of course, you could follow the example of one of the lads on my "Friday Old Geezer Coffee Runs", who proudly announced that he had bought himself a quicklink after watching us repair a couple of broken chains the previous week. (One done with a quicklink and the other done by carefully replacing a chain rivet because the other guy didn't have a quicklink). When I asked what size link it was, he replied that it was a 10-speed, just like I'd used on my busted chain. He'd seen what I used and bought exactly the same thing. That'll do well on his 8-speed setup.