For a lot of people, encrypted and signed DNS, has around 75% of the benefits of a VPN without actually using a VPN.
This is often overlooked but the thing is that most ISPs / countries block websites, log user activity and run traffic interception by changing DNS queries to redirect people to a server they control. Just by using a DNS provider that is capable of DoH / DoT you'll be safer (and yes, enable domain and certificate validations).
Using vpn to avoid Geo blocking and censorship I see as incredibly valid for those that need it.
So, no this might not even be a valid use-case for a lot of people.