I honestly feel level sync and anything that makes leveling easier or more friendly and automated brings the experience closer to a 'grind'. When you don't have to put effort and the rewards come easy, it just becomes a chore for you to zone out during. This is not the funnest time with your friends. When the reward is harder to get you are more aware and you'll remember the experience much better.

Also you can still level with friends without level sync.