I write C++ and Python for $DAYJOB and I use Emacs with no extra configuration (plugins, evil mode, etc). Out of the box it takes a while to understand its flow (the emacs tutor is excellent), but it's quite usable and nice.
You don't miss autocomplete or linting?
Emacs has TAGS-based completion (basically completing known symbols in a project) and you can use M-x compile to navigate the output of a command that generates warnings and error messages. It is not the same workflow as other popular editors, but has it's advantages too.
I don't think that's what they meant. I think they meant "I use Vim for lightweight, default editing. When I want to extend my editor precisely to my liking, (like in Emacs), I use Emacs."
Yes, exactly. Emacs core feature is that it is programmable, sticking to default would be like only using hjkl to move in Vim.
Ah, I know RMS claims to not using any plugins and barely any customizations since emacs is "exactly how he wants it" as the author. I am curious if there are others who feel the same way.