I just started using IRC chats for the first time a few days ago and I'm REALLY enjoying it! I was sort of worried I'd get overwhelmed and not talk much like I do with new Discord servers I join, but I'm finding that it has a completely different vibe to what I'm use to with other IM programs/apps. You only ever see who ever's online in that specific channel, you don't get sound notifications whenever a new message is posted (only when someone enters/leaves), and you're only in the channels you choose to be in, rather getting them all at once and needing to mute the channels you're not interested in.
It's really fun! I like it a lot :D I have yet to find a super active community, understandably so I guess. Quite "outdated" technology by most people's standards. But that's kinda what makes it nice and cozy :D you get to actually see who's there and meet people, and get excited when you recognize someone pop in who you wish to chat to ^^
I'd love to hear your experiences with/thoughts on IRC, and if you have any servers you'd recommend!