With the demise of Sun Spot Cycle 24 there is no argument that the digi modes ft8 and ft4 have grown in popularity almost to the extent of pushing out other modes. I have to admit I was not really taken with these modes and have totally given up their use several times. Yes I admit, I became an excessive FT8'er, along with many others around the world.
FT8 gives user's a chance to build up their DXCC tally with only basic equipment like an FT817 with 5w you are able to work stations around the world.
My current setup for these modes is:
Yaesu FT817nd
MX-P50m Pawer Amp
LDG AT-11 MP ATU
ZLP Data link
WSJT-x
Log4OM V2
HP EliteBook, Windows 10
EFHW 6 to 40mtrs