I get that there's a backlash because it can't possibly live up to the hype. However, you're right that the hype isn't simply about how good they are but how reasonably they're priced. Also the mystique about their "secret menu".
This article is talking about the prices. I find it's not that accurate because locations all have different prices, but they be considering some average.
https://www.kcet.org/food/the-bright-side-of-in-n-outs-price-hike
If I'm going to be paying $9-10 my choices are:
Chili's 3 for $10 with a drink, appetizer, and a large burger. I'll probably need to pay a tip unless it's takeout.
Red Robin Tavern Double burger for $6.99 with "bottomless" fries. I put that in quotes because once I was told I couldn't get any more.
The Habit, a mostly California chain for those unfamiliar.